What Happened To Joe Mcbryan __hot__ Jun 2026
The suspension was lifted in January 2016 after Buffalo implemented corrective actions. Joe remained a pilot, even as he surrendered his executive management duties.
So, what happened to Joe McBryan? The simple answer: He lost his company to his children in a brutal family war.
Born and raised in the aviation industry, Joe McBryan founded Buffalo Airways in 1970. Based in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, the airline became famous for its reliance on vintage aircraft, including the Douglas DC-3, Curtiss C-46 Commando, and Lockheed Electra.
He is still frequently spotted by fans at the Yellowknife hangar.
Joe McBryan , the legendary founder of Buffalo Airways and star of Ice Pilots NWT what happened to joe mcbryan
As the legendary founder of Buffalo Airways and the stubborn, charismatic breakout star of the hit reality TV series Ice Pilots NWT , McBryan has been the subject of numerous retirement rumors and health hoaxes online. However, he remains an enduring icon of northern aviation, transitioning his role to focus on flying vintage warbirds, mentoring new pilots, and modernizing his historic airline. The Reality TV Legacy: Ice Pilots NWT
Before we discuss his downfall, it’s essential to understand the man. Joe McBryan started Buffalo Airways in 1970 in Hay River, Northwest Territories, Canada. The airline specialized in hauling fuel, freight, and passengers to remote Arctic communities using WWII-era piston-engine aircraft. Joe was a mechanical genius and a fearless pilot who became a living legend in northern Canada.
Mikey and Julie did not just defend themselves; they counter-sued. Their legal filings included affidavits from employees, business associates, and even former medical professionals who alleged that Joe’s behavior had become erratic and dangerous.
Transport Canada eventually reinstated the AOC in after approving the company's corrective action plans. The suspension was lifted in January 2016 after
Even in 2026, Joe still takes a hands-on approach to his aircraft, demonstrating his lifelong passion for the DC-3 and other vintage planes. Summary: Where is Joe McBryan Now?
To silence the rumors, his son and Buffalo Airways Director of Operations, Mikey McBryan, published updates across official channels confirming that his father is . Joe continues to be photographed working on the docks and flying in the Northwest Territories. The Transport Canada Battle & Stepping Down
Adam McBryan, the youngest son, has remained largely neutral but appears to have a strained relationship with Mikey. In interviews, Adam has hinted that the family may never fully recover.
So, what is the real Joe McBryan doing today? In short, he’s still flying high, but his role has evolved. The curtain may have closed on the television show, but the story of Buffalo Airways is still being written. The simple answer: He lost his company to
He is focused on training the next generation of northern pilots to fight wildfires, using a fleet of Air Tractor AT-802 aircraft and a high-tech flight simulator.
The suspension directly impacted his record-breaking run as captain of the world's longest-operating scheduled DC-3 service (known as the "SKED" between Hay River and Yellowknife).
Joe McBryan , the legendary "Buffalo Joe" and founder of Buffalo Airways
