About Nolinor Aviation
Nolinor Aviation is a Canadian charter airline operating under IATA code N5 and ICAO code NRL. Its full legal name is Les Investissements Nolinor Inc., and it is headquartered at Montréal–Mirabel International Airport (YMX) in Mirabel, Québec, Canada. Nolinor Aviation is an independent Canadian company and is not part of a larger airline group or conglomerate.
Founded in 1992 and commencing operations in 1997, Nolinor Aviation has grown over more than three decades to become one of Canada's most specialised and respected charter carriers. The airline's core business spans passenger charter, Fly In Fly Out (FIFO) operations for the mining and resource sector, cargo services, and air tanker firefighting support. Nolinor is particularly renowned as the world's largest operator of the Boeing 737-200, with eight of these iconic aircraft in service as of 2025 — the only jet type certified by Boeing for operations on gravel runways.
Nolinor's unique operational expertise allows it to serve remote communities and industrial sites across northern Canada that are inaccessible to most commercial carriers, including locations with unpaved gravel, ice, or dirt runways. The airline holds a valid Air Operator Certificate (AOC) issued by Transport Canada and operates under stringent Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs).
Airline Overview and History
Nolinor Aviation has built a distinctive niche in Canadian aviation over more than three decades, growing from a small charter operator serving hunting and fishing outfitters to a major player in northern and remote aviation. Key milestones in the airline's history include:
- 1992 — Nolinor Aviation is incorporated as Les Investissements Nolinor Inc. in Québec, Canada, with a focus on charter services in the province.
- 1997 — Commercial operations commence, initially providing charter flights for hunting and fishing outfitters in the Schefferville area of northern Québec.
- 1999 — Nolinor receives authorisation to conduct its own aircraft maintenance in-house, increasing operational efficiency and reducing downtime.
- 2001 — The airline acquires its first fully cargo-configured Convair 580 aircraft and begins providing cargo services to the United States and northern Canada.
- 2005 — Nolinor relocates its maintenance facilities to Montréal–Mirabel International Airport (YMX), establishing a purpose-built hangar of over 9,300 m² capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft.
- 2007 — Nolinor acquires two ex-Royal Air Maroc Boeing 737-200 combi aircraft (configured for combined passenger and freight operations), marking a pivotal expansion of its fleet and capabilities.
- 2011 — A Boeing 737-200 full freighter is added to the fleet for dedicated cargo operations.
- 2013 — Nolinor launches scheduled charter services from Waterloo International Airport to the Mary River mine operated by Baffinland Iron Mines, using a Boeing 737-200 with three weekly services to support the Arctic mining workforce.
- 2020 — Nolinor Aviation becomes the official charter flight partner of the Montreal Alouettes Canadian Football League team for a 10-year agreement, with a Boeing 737 personalised in the team's colours.
- 2024 — Nolinor expands operations to Edmonton (YEG) to support mining development in northern Alberta, growing from one weekly flight to five business-day services.
- 2025 — Nolinor adds its eighth Boeing 737-200 to the fleet (registration C-FTWW), further cementing its status as the world's largest operator of this aircraft type.
Nolinor's primary hub is Montréal–Mirabel International Airport (YMX), and the airline also maintains operational bases in Edmonton (YEG) and Yellowknife (YZF), which serve as staging points for northern mining operations. The airline holds its Air Operator Certificate from Transport Canada and operates under the full requirements of Canadian Aviation Regulations.
Fleet and Aircraft
Nolinor Aviation operates a distinctive all-Boeing fleet, with a particular focus on the legendary Boeing 737-200 — a 1960s-era design that remains uniquely suited to the demanding conditions of northern Canadian aviation. The airline's fleet as of 2025 comprises:
- Boeing 737-200 (8 aircraft) — The cornerstone of Nolinor's fleet and the source of its global aviation fame. Nolinor is the world's largest operator of the 737-200, with eight in service. Six are configured as combi (combined passenger/freight) aircraft capable of seating up to 119 passengers depending on layout, while two are configured as dedicated freighters. All 737-200s in the Nolinor fleet are equipped with gravel kits — special modifications including reinforced landing gear, protective deflector shields, and anti-skid systems — making them the only commercial jets certified by Boeing for operations on unpaved gravel, ice, and dirt runways. This unique capability makes the 737-200 indispensable for serving remote northern communities and mine sites.
- Boeing 737-300QC (1 aircraft) — A Quick Change (QC) variant that can be rapidly converted between passenger and all-cargo configurations, providing operational flexibility. The 737-300QC can carry up to 130 passengers in full passenger mode.
- Boeing 737-400 (2 aircraft) — The newest and largest variant in the Nolinor fleet, capable of carrying up to 158 passengers. The 737-400 is particularly well suited to Fly In Fly Out operations for the mining sector and government missions, offering a larger cargo door, extended range, and higher payload capacity.
The average age of Nolinor's fleet reflects the durability and ruggedness prioritised for northern operations. All aircraft undergo rigorous maintenance in Nolinor's own Transport Canada-approved maintenance facility at Mirabel, which can accommodate aircraft up to the size of the Boeing 747.
Top Flight Routes
As a charter airline, Nolinor Aviation does not operate a fixed published schedule in the same way as a commercial carrier. Its routes are determined by client contracts and operational requirements. However, the airline does operate one scheduled domestic route and serves a wide range of destinations across Canada and internationally on a charter basis.
- Montréal–Mirabel (YMX) to Val-d'Or (YVO) — Nolinor's only scheduled domestic passenger route, connecting its main base at Mirabel with Val-d'Or, a gold-mining town in the Abitibi region of northwestern Québec. This route supports the mining community and local travellers. Search Montreal to Val-d'Or flights on Traveloka.
- Edmonton (YEG) — Northern Alberta Mining Routes — Since 2024, Nolinor has operated flights from Edmonton to support mining development in northern Alberta, primarily for B2Gold Corporation. Services have grown to five flights per week on business days. Search Montreal to Calgary flights on Traveloka.
- Yellowknife (YZF) — Arctic Mining Operations — Nolinor has maintained a Boeing 737-200 base in Yellowknife for over a decade, supporting mining projects operated by companies such as Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd. in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.
- Iqaluit and Mary River (Nunavut) — Nolinor previously operated charter flights to the Mary River iron mine site, among the most northerly mine operations in Canada, accessible only by air on gravel and ice runways.
- Remote Québec Communities — The airline serves all regions of Québec, including remote fly-in communities in the James Bay and Nunavik regions where road access is limited or nonexistent.
- International Charter — Nolinor accepts charter requests across Canada, the United States, and international destinations. The airline's 737-400 is particularly popular for transporting large groups on sports, government, and corporate charters. Search Montreal to Vancouver flights on Traveloka.
Travellers interested in reaching destinations served by Nolinor can search for available flights on Traveloka, where charter and connecting options may be found depending on the route.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Nolinor Aviation's baggage policy is designed to accommodate the needs of its primary clientele — mining workers, corporate groups, and remote community passengers — as well as general charter travellers. The following are the standard guidelines:
- Carry-on Baggage:
- Weight: Up to 10 kg
- Dimensions: Maximum 45 cm x 33 cm x 20 cm
- Must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you
- Checked Baggage:
- Standard checked bag allowance: up to 23 kg per piece
- Passengers are typically allowed one standard checked piece included in the charter fare
- Excess Baggage:
- Checking three or more bags (excess beyond the included allowance) is charged at approximately CAD 85 to CAD 95 per additional bag
- Fees may vary depending on the charter contract and route
- Special Items: Sporting equipment, musical instruments, and oversized items are accepted as checked baggage subject to the airline's approval and may incur additional fees. Passengers should contact Nolinor or their booking agent in advance for special item arrangements.
As Nolinor primarily operates charter flights, specific baggage policies may vary between contracts and client arrangements. Passengers booked through Traveloka should review their specific booking conditions for applicable baggage inclusions.
Check-in Guide
Nolinor Aviation operates primarily charter flights, and check-in procedures may vary depending on the nature of the charter (FIFO, group charter, or individual booking). General guidelines are as follows:
- Airport Counter Check-in: Passengers should arrive at Montréal–Mirabel International Airport (YMX) or the relevant departure airport at least 2 to 3 hours before departure. For FIFO and mining charters, passengers are usually briefed and checked in by the group organiser or Nolinor's ground staff.
- Individual Bookings: For scheduled flights such as the Mirabel–Val-d'Or route, passengers should check in at the airport counter at least 2 hours before departure.
- Online Check-in: Online check-in availability depends on the booking channel and charter type. Passengers booking through Traveloka should follow the instructions provided in their booking confirmation. For FIFO contracts and group charters, check-in is typically handled collectively by the client company or Nolinor's operations team.
- Documentation: All passengers must present valid government-issued photo identification (passport or Canadian provincial ID/driver's licence) at check-in. For international charter destinations, a valid passport and any required visas are mandatory.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
Nolinor Aviation operates a single-cabin configuration across its fleet, consistent with its charter and FIFO operational model. All flights are configured in an economy-class seating layout.
- Boeing 737-200 Combi: Configured with up to 119 economy seats in a 3-3 layout, with the rear section of the aircraft allocated to cargo. Seats are standard economy class with no premium options.
- Boeing 737-300QC: Up to 130 economy seats when in full passenger mode. The Quick Change design means cabin configuration can vary between flights depending on the cargo-to-passenger ratio required.
- Boeing 737-400: Up to 158 economy seats, the most spacious configuration in the Nolinor fleet. Popular for larger group charters including mining FIFO rotations, sports teams, and government missions.
- In-Flight Meals: Meal and catering services on Nolinor charter flights are determined by the charter contract. FIFO and group charters often include catering arranged by the client company. Individual passengers on scheduled routes should confirm meal availability with their booking agent.
- In-Flight Entertainment: There is no personal in-flight entertainment system on Nolinor aircraft. Passengers are advised to bring their own reading material or personal devices with pre-downloaded content for longer flights.
- Cabin Environment: The Boeing 737-200 cabins are functional and practical, reflecting the aircraft's primary role in supporting remote operations. The 737-400 provides a more modern cabin experience for larger group charters.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Nolinor Aviation's passenger policies are designed primarily around its charter clientele. Passengers with special requirements should communicate their needs to Nolinor or their booking agent well in advance of travel.
- Children and Infants: Children travelling on Nolinor charter flights must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Infant lap travel is subject to confirmation with the airline or charter organiser, as policies may vary by charter contract. Ensure all children carry valid identification or passports as required by the destination.
- Pregnant Passengers: Pregnant passengers should consult their physician before booking travel on Nolinor flights. As a charter carrier, specific pregnancy travel policies may be outlined in the relevant charter contract. Passengers in later stages of pregnancy (beyond 32 weeks) are generally advised to carry a medical certificate confirming fitness to fly. Nolinor's operational team can provide guidance for specific charter arrangements.
- Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Passengers requiring wheelchair assistance or other mobility support should notify Nolinor or their charter organiser in advance. The airline will make reasonable arrangements to assist passengers at departure and arrival airports. Electric wheelchairs and mobility aids can be transported as checked baggage.
- Unaccompanied Minors: Unaccompanied minor policies depend on the specific charter arrangement and should be confirmed directly with the charter organiser or Nolinor's customer service team prior to booking.
- FIFO Passengers: Workers travelling on Fly In Fly Out rotations are typically managed by their employer's travel coordinator in conjunction with Nolinor. All FIFO passengers must comply with the safety and documentation requirements of both the airline and the client company.
Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
As a charter airline, Nolinor Aviation's reschedule, cancellation, and refund policies are primarily governed by individual charter contracts. For passengers who have booked through Traveloka, the following general process applies:
- Step 1 — Log in to Traveloka: Open the Traveloka app or website and go to My Bookings in your account.
- Step 2 — Locate Your Booking: Find your Nolinor Aviation booking and tap or click to view the details and available options.
- Step 3 — Select Reschedule or Cancel: Choose the appropriate action. The platform will display available alternative dates for rescheduling, or the applicable cancellation terms.
- Step 4 — Review Conditions and Fees: Cancellation and change fees depend on how far in advance the change is made and the terms of the charter booking. Review all applicable fees before confirming.
- Step 5 — Confirm and Complete: Confirm the reschedule or cancellation. If any fare difference or fee applies, complete the payment.
- Step 6 — Receive Confirmation: A revised booking confirmation or cancellation notice will be sent to your registered email address.
Refund processing times for Traveloka bookings typically range from 7 to 14 business days for credit or debit card refunds. Passengers are strongly advised to purchase travel insurance at the time of booking to safeguard against unexpected cancellation costs, particularly for remote-destination charter flights where alternative transport may not be readily available.
Why Book Nolinor Aviation Flights on Traveloka
Traveloka makes it easy to search for and book available Nolinor Aviation flights, providing a seamless digital booking experience backed by trusted customer support. Here are the key reasons to choose Traveloka for your Nolinor Aviation booking:
- Convenient Online Booking: Search and book Nolinor Aviation flights in minutes through the Traveloka app or website, without the need to contact the airline directly.
- Multiple Payment Options: Pay using credit or debit cards, bank transfer, or popular Malaysian e-wallets including Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, and ShopeePay.
- Secure Transactions: Traveloka uses industry-standard encryption and security protocols to protect all payment and personal data.
- Flexible Booking Management: Reschedule or cancel your booking through the Traveloka app without needing to call the airline or charter operator.
- Travel Insurance Add-On: Add travel insurance to protect your trip against cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, and lost baggage — especially important for remote or northern Canadian destinations.
- E-ticket Delivery: Receive your e-ticket instantly by email and access it anytime through the Traveloka app.
- Price Alert: Use Traveloka's Price Alert to monitor fare changes for available routes and book at the most advantageous time.
- 24/7 Customer Support: Traveloka's customer service team is available around the clock for assistance with any booking queries.
- Traveloka Points: Earn Traveloka Points on every booking and redeem them for discounts on future travel across flights, hotels, and other services.
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights on Traveloka
Whether you are booking a Nolinor Aviation charter for a northern Canadian adventure or a FIFO rotation, the following tips can help you find the best available fares on Traveloka:
- Book in Advance: Charter and scheduled fares tend to be lower when booked well ahead of your travel date. Last-minute bookings are generally more expensive and may have limited availability.
- Use the Price Alert Feature: Activate Traveloka's Price Alert for your preferred route to receive notifications when fares change, allowing you to book at the optimal moment.
- Travel During Off-Peak Periods: If your travel is flexible, consider avoiding peak periods such as long weekends and summer holidays in Canada (July–August), when charter demand tends to be higher.
- Fly on Weekdays: Weekday departures, particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays, often have more competitive fares than weekend flights.
- Check Promo Deals: Visit Traveloka's Promos page regularly for exclusive flight deals and discount events that may include Nolinor Aviation routes.
- Compare Nearby Dates: Use Traveloka's flexible date search to compare fares across a range of departure dates and find the most cost-effective option for your schedule.
- Add Travel Insurance Early: Purchasing travel insurance at the time of booking ensures you are covered from the moment you confirm, protecting your investment against unforeseen events.
- Bundle with Hotels: For extended stays in Montreal or other Canadian cities, Traveloka's flight + hotel bundles may offer better combined value than booking separately.
How to Book Flight Tickets on Traveloka
Booking a Nolinor Aviation flight on Traveloka is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to complete your booking:
- Open Traveloka: Visit www.traveloka.com or launch the Traveloka app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Select Flights: Tap or click on the Flight icon on the Traveloka homepage.
- Enter Your Route and Dates: Input your departure city, destination, and preferred travel dates. Select one-way or return as required.
- Search for Flights: Tap Search to view all available flight options for your route, including any Nolinor Aviation services.
- Choose Your Flight: Browse the search results and select the Nolinor Aviation flight that best matches your travel requirements and budget.
- Add Optional Extras: Consider adding checked baggage, seat selection, or travel insurance for a more complete travel package.
- Enter Passenger Information: Fill in the full name, identification number or passport details, and contact information for all passengers, exactly as they appear on their official travel documents.
- Select Payment Method: Choose your preferred payment method — credit/debit card, bank transfer, Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, ShopeePay, or another available option.
- Review and Confirm: Check your booking summary carefully and complete the payment to confirm your reservation.
- Receive Your E-ticket: Your Nolinor Aviation e-ticket will be sent to your registered email address and stored in your Traveloka account under My Bookings, ready for your journey.