The London International Airport (YXU) has officially opened its outdoor rink, which it said is Canada’s first airport ice rink.
The team at YXU built the rink and boards themselves, including the lighting system for evening skating, as a way to give back to the community.
Scott McFadzean, airport president and CEO, said: “We continue to look for creative ways to engage and give back to our community here at the airport. In addition to offering direct flights to multiple sun destinations this winter and the ability to connect to anywhere in the world from London International Airport, we also want to offer other reasons to come out to our airport. There are not many locations in the city that allow outdoor ice hockey, we’re proud to be able to provide a fun and safe place for staff, tenants and the public to skate and play hockey, while enjoying the bonus of spotting aircraft arriving and departing.”
It’s a classic “backyard rink” that, for now, relies on cold temperatures to freeze. YXU invited London’s OHL team, the London Knights, to come out for the first skate! Players Oliver Bonk and Jackson Edward dropped the first puck.
“It’s great that London has a space to enjoy hockey at its roots on the outdoor rink and kudos to our partners at YXU for making this happen for the community,” said Alex Brown, marketing director of the London Knights. “The players all grew up enjoying time with their friends and family on a pond or nearby community rink – having fun is what it’s all about!”
To find the YXU Ice Rink, head east to the end of Oxford St. and turn left down Crumlin Sideroad. Go around the bend on and onto Hurricane Rd. Free parking is available along the fence in front of the Airside Operations Center, east of the rink. Please do not park along the road coming in on Hurricane Rd/Spitfire Rd.
The rink is ‘use at your own risk’ and is not supervised. Children five years of age and under must wear CSA approved helmet. The London International Airport strongly recommends that all user wear CSA head protection.
It is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day and includes outdoor lighting and a hut to get ready in. The availability is dependent on consistent cold temperatures, so stay tuned on our social channels @flyyxu for updates.
The ice rink is one of several recreation options, free to use at London International Airport. There is the YXU Airpark, located on Creamery Rd. (off Dundas St.), equipped with free parking and informational signage on aviation history and aircraft to look for. In the summer months, YXU offers beach volleyball and pickleball courts.
This press release was prepared and distributed by London International Airport.
