Fred Carmichael Mural

Fred Carmichael is a northern aviator and community leader from the Beaufort Delta. Born in 1935 and raised on the land near Aklavik, he went on to become the first Indigenous commercial pilot in the Northwest Territories.

He founded and operated several northern aviation companies, including Reindeer Air Service and Western Arctic Air, providing essential transportation across remote communities in the region.

Over a career spanning more than 60 years, he also supported search and rescue efforts and contributed to the development of aviation in the North.

In addition to his work in aviation, Fred Carmichael served as President of the Gwich’in Tribal Council and was involved in regional leadership and development.

His contributions have been recognized nationally, including his appointment as a Member of the Order of Canada and his induction into Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame.

The mural at the MSC features Fred Carmichael’s aircraft, CF-HBL, landing on a lake. As you move along it, the plane appears to change direction—an optical illusion built into the design.

Much like Freddie himself during countless search and rescue missions, the aircraft seems to find you, no matter where you stand.

This same aircraft is on display at the Inuvik Visitor Centre at the entrance to town.