Aklak Air

Getting started: what pet travel looks like on 6L

Flying with Aklak Air means traveling on small northern aircraft where space, weight, and weather play a bigger role than on major jets. Pet acceptance is possible, but it’s always capacity‑controlled and must be arranged in advance. Expect the airline to confirm availability only after checking the specific aircraft and forecast temperatures for your flight day. That makes early planning essential and, for winter operations in the Western Arctic, flexibility is your best friend.

In the cabin vs. in the hold

On many flights, only very small pets may be accepted in the cabin—and sometimes not at all—because under‑seat space is limited and there are no overhead bins for carriers. If in‑cabin travel is offered on your route, your cat or small dog must remain in a closed, soft‑sided carrier that fits fully under the seat in front of you; the carrier counts toward your carry‑on allowance and must be leak‑proof and well‑ventilated. Pets must be calm, odor‑free, and remain inside the carrier for the entire flight. Numbers are tightly limited per aircraft, so reserve early and expect the airline to confirm on a first‑come, first‑served basis.

Most pets travel as checked baggage or cargo in an approved kennel. On small turboprops, acceptance depends on compartment size and temperature; if it’s too cold or hot, Aklak Air may defer your pet for safety. You’ll use an IATA‑compliant hard kennel, check in earlier than usual, and attach feeding, contact, and labeling details. Sedation is discouraged—at altitude it can depress breathing—so discuss alternatives with your vet and plan natural calming strategies instead.

Carriers, sizes, and weight limits

Because Aklak Air’s fleet and seating vary, the airline does not publish a single set of dimensions. The rule of thumb is simple: for cabin, the carrier must fit entirely under the seat; for the hold, the kennel must fit through the compartment door and allow your pet to stand, turn, and lie down naturally. Combined pet+kennel weight is also limited for safe handling; very heavy or oversize kennels may need to move as cargo or on a separate flight. Ask reservations to confirm the exact under‑seat clearance and maximum kennel size/weight for your booked flight before you buy a carrier.

For the hold, choose a rigid kennel with a secure metal door, ventilation on at least three sides, absorbent bedding, and empty (spill‑proof) dishes attached inside. Remove wheels, zip‑tie the door, and label the kennel with your name, phone, and destination in large print.

Documents and health requirements

On domestic Canada routes, airlines generally do not require a formal health certificate, but Aklak Air may ask that your pet appear healthy and clean, and it’s wise to carry proof of up‑to‑date vaccinations (especially rabies). Puppies and kittens must be weaned and old enough to travel; pregnant or nursing animals are often restricted. If your itinerary connects to another carrier, you’ll need to meet that airline’s rules as well.

For cross‑border travel, requirements increase. Dogs entering the United States must meet current CDC rules (effective 2024), which include microchipping, valid rabies vaccination documentation, and completion of the CDC Dog Import Form; additional steps apply if coming from high‑risk countries. Returning to Canada from the U.S. typically requires a valid rabies certificate for dogs (and for most cats). Always verify CFIA/CDC and destination‑specific regulations well before departure.

Service dogs

Aklak Air accommodates trained service dogs in the cabin at no charge when they’re task‑trained to assist a person with a disability. Advance notice and documentation are required, and the dog must be harnessed and remain under control. Emotional support animals are not considered service animals and travel under the pet policy.

Fees, restrictions, and booking tips

Expect a pet handling fee per direction, plus any oversize/overweight charges if the kennel exceeds your baggage allowance. Fees can vary by route and whether the animal travels as checked baggage or as cargo; collection is usually at the airport. Species are limited to domesticated pets (typically cats and dogs). Brachycephalic (short‑snout) breeds may face added restrictions in the hold due to breathing risk, and extreme temperatures can trigger weather embargoes for any pet.

Preparing your pet for northern flying

The best trips start with crate training: let your pet nap and feed in the carrier weeks in advance so it feels like a den, not a cage. On travel day, exercise well, offer only a light meal 3–4 hours before departure, and include familiar bedding and an unworn T‑shirt for comfort. Pack a small kit—leash, waste bags, wipes, extra food, a collapsible bowl—and keep vaccination records handy. In remote stations, pet‑relief areas may be basic and weather can delay flights; bring extra supplies and plan for a longer day than usual.

Before you book, call Aklak Air to pre‑arrange space, confirm carrier measurements and weight limits for your exact aircraft, and review fees and temperature policies. With those details set, you and your companion will be ready for a safe, calm journey across the Western Arctic.

A simple guide for families on 6L

Flying with Aklak Air (6L) means traveling on small, reliable aircraft throughout Canada’s Western Arctic, where schedules, space, and weather can shape the experience. That context is helpful when you’re planning a trip with kids: services are more practical than plush, and weight and space limits matter. As a rule of thumb, an infant is under 2 years, a child is 2–11 years, and an adult is 12+ years—age definitions that align with common Canadian practice. You can usually choose between an infant-in-arms (lap infant) or buying a separate seat for your baby, and you’ll want a quick conversation with the airline to match your plan to the aircraft operating your flight. Keep a copy of your child’s identification, and for lap infants, bring proof of age; an easy-to-access birth certificate photo or letter on your phone can save you time at check-in.

Seats and tickets for infants

If you travel with a lap infant, expect to hold your baby for taxi, takeoff, landing, and turbulence; only one lap infant is allowed per supervising adult. On many Canadian domestic itineraries the lap-infant option is offered at no base fare, though taxes and fees can still apply—always confirm at booking and note any route-specific exceptions. If you prefer your infant in a dedicated seat, you’ll need to purchase a paid seat and use an approved child restraint system (CRS). Look for labels showing approval by Transport Canada/FAA or UN ECE standards; CRS cannot be placed in exit rows and must fit the seat width typical of small turboprops.

Aklak Air generally operates aircraft where space is tight, so advance notice is crucial when you intend to install a car seat. Some seats may be better suited for a CRS than others, and crew may designate placement for balance and egress. Bring the CRS manual and be ready to install it yourself; cabin crew will verify approvals but cannot install on your behalf. For toddlers without a CRS, a separate paid seat with the standard lap belt is used; booster seats are usually not permitted during taxi, takeoff, and landing.

Baggage and baby gear

When a child has their own seat, they typically receive the same baggage allowance as the accompanying adult fare type. Lap infants usually don’t have a separate checked or carry-on allowance, but airlines commonly allow one small diaper bag; because Aklak Air operates weight‑restricted aircraft, pack light and keep essentials close. Gate areas in northern stations are compact and overhead bins can be minimal, so place wipes, a spare layer, and any medications in a small under‑seat bag you can access quickly. If a gate agent needs to “valet” a bigger carry-on, you’ll still have your must‑haves at hand.

The short version: what loyalty looks like on 6L

Aklak Air (IATA: 6L) does not run its own standalone frequent flyer program. Instead, much of its scheduled flying in Canada’s Western Arctic is intertwined with Canadian North. When your itinerary is marketed by Canadian North (flight number starting with 5T) and operated by Aklak, you can usually earn and redeem through Canadian North’s program, Aurora Rewards. If your ticket is marketed directly as Aklak (6L) or is a charter, points typically aren’t available.

This makes loyalty with Aklak less about a separate scheme and more about being strategic. The key is to book the same physical flight under the right marketing code. Always check your confirmation: marketing carrier determines your eligibility, even when the aircraft and crew are Aklak’s.

Membership and tiers

Joining Aurora Rewards is free and takes only a couple of minutes on Canadian North’s website. Add your number at booking or during check‑in so your flights post correctly. Because Aklak doesn’t publish its own program, there are no Aklak‑specific status tiers or qualification tracks to pursue.

Aurora Rewards itself is a straightforward, points‑first program rather than a big‑alliance status ladder. As of this writing, it focuses on earning and redeeming points on Canadian North–marketed travel; elite-style benefits are limited and may vary by fare and route. If you’re chasing priority perks or lounges, temper expectations—northern operations prioritize weight and safety, and many routes are flown on single‑cabin turboprops where classic upgrade and lounge frameworks don’t really apply.

Earning points on Aklak-operated flights

You’ll earn Aurora Rewards points on eligible fares with a 5T flight number, including many services Aklak operates for Canadian North. Points are generally awarded on the paid fare (not taxes/fees) and may vary by fare class and promotions. Tickets sold purely as Aklak (6L) or private charters usually don’t earn, and partner hotel/credit‑card accrual options are limited compared with larger carriers.

Always keep boarding passes and e‑tickets until the points post. If something doesn’t track, Aurora Rewards accepts retro‑credit requests with supporting documents—handy on routes where operational changes or weather could alter flight numbers.

Redeeming rewards: what to expect

Aurora Rewards points can be redeemed for flights across the Canadian North network, and that includes seats on Aklak‑operated segments when they’re marketed by Canadian North. You’ll pay taxes and fees in cash, and seat availability for awards is capacity‑controlled. Because aircraft are typically single‑class, are uncommon; the best value is usually a straightforward flight redemption on higher‑cash‑fare routes.

Where Aklak Air’s fleet stands today

Aklak Air (6L) serves the Western Arctic with a small, flexible turboprop fleet tailored to short, remote runways and tough weather. Through its long‑running partnership with Kenn Borek Air, the airline draws aircraft as needed, so the exact count can shift seasonally; in practice, you’ll typically see about 4–6 aircraft based around Inuvik at any time. The core types are the de Havilland Canada DHC‑6 Twin Otter, the Beechcraft 1900D, and the Beechcraft King Air 100/200. This mix lets schedules run reliably while still covering charters, community resupply, and medical missions. The model flexibility is a hallmark of northern operations and keeps routes viable even when demand and weather change quickly.

Cabins, layouts, and what you’ll fly

On the busier community runs, the Beechcraft 1900D is the most common sight. It’s pressurized, quick, and seats up to 19 passengers in a narrow aisle cabin with a rare regional‑airliner perk: a near stand‑up interior. Overhead space is minimal and there’s no flight attendant, but boarding is fast and the aircraft copes well with the short gravel strips found across the Mackenzie Delta. Checked bags go in the rear and forward compartments, and carry‑ons are typically small and soft‑sided.

For shorter or rougher airstrips, the Twin Otter (DHC‑6) takes over, often configured for up to 19 seats or in a combi layout that swaps rows for cargo. Its short‑takeoff‑and‑landing capability keeps tiny communities connected when bigger types can’t get in. Expect a more utilitarian interior and a bit more prop noise, balanced by big windows and a roomy door that makes bulky cargo and winter gear easy to handle. The King Air 100/200 fills the gap on lighter‑demand services and charters, usually set up with 8–13 seats; it’s pressurized and comfortable, ideal for medical, corporate, or on‑demand community flights where speed and flexibility matter.

Age profile: the newest and the classics

If you like aviation heritage, you’ll appreciate that Aklak’s backbone includes DHC‑6 Twin Otter 300‑series airframes—rugged classics whose designs date to the 1970s—kept current with modern avionics, interiors, and engines maintained for Arctic reliability. At the other end of the spectrum, the Beechcraft 1900D examples in rotation are among the newer airframes in the lineup, reflecting late‑1990s and early‑2000s production with refreshed cabins. Across the fleet, upgrades such as , WAAS/LPV approach capability, and digital flight instruments are common, improving situational awareness in low light and winter weather. The result is a fleet that blends proven airframes with contemporary safety tech—.

What to expect on Aklak Air

Aklak Air (IATA: 6L) flies short regional routes in Canada’s Western Arctic, typically with small turboprop aircraft and a single, economy-style cabin. These aircraft do not have traditional galleys, ovens, or trolleys, and there is usually no dedicated cabin crew. That setup shapes the inflight experience: there is no formal inflight meal service on scheduled flights. You won’t find hot meals, elaborate snacks, or a published menu, and service can vary with weather and operational needs in remote regions. Think of the flight as a quick hop between communities rather than a full-service dining environment.

Meals, snacks, and overall quality

On most scheduled sectors—often under two hours—Aklak Air does not provide snacks or full meals, and hot drinks are not prepared onboard. Occasionally, a small bottled water may be available at the counter or handed out when supplies allow, but this isn’t guaranteed. Because there’s no galley, even longer regional segments follow the same pattern: pack what you’d like to eat and drink (within security rules). The absence of a menu doesn’t mean you have to go hungry; it just means you set the menu yourself.

Since there’s no curated catering, the “quality and variety” of food is what you bring. Choose sturdy, shelf-stable items—granola bars, sandwiches, fruit, or trail mix—and avoid foods that are messy or strongly scented in a compact cabin. In winter, items can chill quickly during boarding or ramp transfers, so insulate anything you want to keep from freezing. Remote airports may have limited hours or no food outlets, so stocking up before you reach the smaller community stations is wise. A little planning turns a minimalist service into a comfortable, well-fed ride.

Dietary needs and allergies

Aklak Air does not offer special meals (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, etc.) on scheduled flights, and there’s no onboard facility to heat or refrigerate food. If you have dietary requirements, bring suitable snacks and meals that can be eaten at ambient temperature. Out of respect for others in a small cabin, avoid strong odors where possible. For severe allergies, tell staff at check-in so the team is aware; an advisory can sometimes be communicated, but an allergen-free environment cannot be guaranteed. Always carry necessary medications (such as an epinephrine auto-injector) in your personal item.

Pre-ordering and special requests

There is no pre-ordering system for meals on scheduled services. If you are traveling on a charter arranged by an organization or tour operator, any catering would need to be organized in advance through that charter coordinator, not purchased onboard. For individual travelers, the practical approach is simple: pack your own food, keep it sealed until seated, and follow local security rules for liquids and gels. If you have questions about what’s feasible on a specific charter itinerary, confirm with your organizer well ahead of departure.

What to expect on 6L flights

Aklak Air (IATA: 6L) focuses on short regional hops across Canada’s Western Arctic, typically on small turboprops designed for reliability in remote conditions. On these flights, traditional in‑flight entertainment systems aren’t installed—there are no seatback screens and no overhead video. Instead, the experience leans into the journey itself: wide tundra, winding rivers, sea ice, and, in season, the aurora—those scenic Arctic views can be the best show onboard. Cabin announcements are clear and practical, and the atmosphere is relaxed, which makes it easy to settle in with your own content or simply enjoy the window. If you’re used to long‑haul amenities, think of this as a comfortable, time‑efficient link between communities rather than a full‑service entertainment environment.

Entertainment types and how you’ll access them

Movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, audiobooks, and games are all available only through your personal device. Plan to use phones, tablets, or e‑readers in airplane mode; Bluetooth headphones are usually fine once the crew allows electronic devices after take‑off. Because aircraft on these routes are compact, power outlets and USB ports are not typically available, so arrive with devices fully charged and consider a small power bank. If you prefer analog distractions, a paperback, a puzzle book, or a travel journal pairs nicely with the quiet, steady rhythm of a turboprop. Families often find simple offline games or downloaded kids’ shows helpful for these short, no‑frills segments.

Variety, quality, and cabin differences

There isn’t a curated onboard library, so the variety and quality are exactly what you download ahead of time—think fresh episodes, playlists, and a few offline games to cover your flight and any weather holds. All cabins are single‑class with open seating policies that can vary by route, so there are no entertainment differences between fare types. If you love a view, a window seat can turn the flight into a moving documentary of the North, especially at low cruising altitudes where landmarks are easy to spot. Noise levels on turboprops can be higher than on jets; a good pair of headphones makes music and podcasts far more enjoyable. Expect minimal onboard reading material beyond the safety card, so bring what you want to read.

Wi‑Fi, streaming, and connectivity reality

Aklak Air flights do not offer onboard internet—there’s and , and inflight messaging services are not supported. Coverage in the Western Arctic can be sparse even on the ground, so it’s smart to download content, maps, and boarding info for onward travel before you depart. There are no known partnerships with media or streaming providers, and you won’t find airline apps with DRM‑protected catalogs to unlock in the air. Think fully offline: your files, your playlists, your games. Once you land and regain network coverage, your devices will pick up where they left off.