The airport serves as a point of call for air carriers offering scheduled passenger service, and an operating base for Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

Commercial air service to the area began in 1926 using the waters of Howey Bay on Red Lake as a float and sea plane base.

Due to the freight requirements of the gold mines developing in the area, Howey Bay was recognized as the busiest airport in the world during 1936 and 1937.

[4] Those leaving or arriving in Red Lake now enter a building that has a large ticket and rental car counters, luggage carousels, naturally lit seating areas, Nav Canada offices and space for administration.

A modern parking lot has been implemented and a rental space is available for franchises inside the airport terminal building.