Yellowknife (Oct 27/04) - It is unlikely terrorists will strike in the North, agree many city residents.

However, opinion is evenly divided about the need for extra security measures at the Yellowknife Airport. That is until they learn part of the costs will be borne by the passengers.

"It costs us so much to get out of here already," said Wendy Meek, an insurance agent. "God, we pay the highest rates already."

Over the next three years though, $11.2 million will be spent to improve passenger-screening security equipment. Beginning in 2006, passengers will have to pay user fees to cover part of the associated costs.

"I doubt I would be very happy paying user fees. I hate paying the air transport fees they have already in place," said Rick Bennett.

"I don't know any history of people trying to smuggle bombs to the North, nor do I understand why they would," he said.

But a small number of people say not only would they be willing to pay additional fees, but it's time that Yellowknife's airport be on par with the rest of the country.

"They do it down south," said Marie-Rose Sangris.

"You'd be able to detect any explosives easily and quickly. People would feel a lot more secure flying."

Flight Facts:

* Number of passenger flights daily: 40 to 45, fewer on weekends

* Number of flights weekly: 264

* Number of passenger and cargo flights annually: 50,802

* Number of runways: 2

* Length of runways: 7,500 feet and 5,000 feet

* Number of passengers a year: 404,000

* Largest planes it can accommodate: A 747 holding 450 passengers can land after dumping gas, but must take off empty or a U.S. military Galaxy aircraft.

* Lowest price of a roundtrip ticket to Edmonton with First Air: $785.62