Skip to main content

Waheeda Harris reports on the bells, whistles, shortcuts and need-to-know services at airports across the country

Special to The Globe and Mail

Every flier desires the same thing: to arrive and depart without delay. But come the holiday season, that might be wishful thinking at Canada’s five busiest airports. Here are some ways to make your time in the terminal as enjoyable and stress-free as possible

Canadian airports • ✈️ Calgary • ✈️ Edmonton • ✈️ Montreal • ✈️ Toronto • ✈️ Vancouver

The Calgary Airport Marriott in-terminal lobby offers multiple seating areas with convenient power outlets, enhanced by natural light.Garry Kan/Marriott Bonvoy

YYC Calgary International Airport

  • Look for White Hat Volunteers for advice or assistance – the hat style in question being cowboy. And keep an eye out the Pre-Board Pals, dogs and cats offering calming cuddles.
  • Save time with YYC Express (free) which provides advance daily reservations for security screening during peak times.
Read the full list of YYC tips here

(Return to top)


Edmonton's airport was one of the first in Canada to offer pet therapy.Handout

YEG Edmonton International Airport

  • Various animals help fliers destress at YEG, the first airport in Canada to introduce pet therapy.
  • YEG Express (free) offers domestic and international travellers booking times for security screening up to 72 hours in advance.
Read the full list of YEG tips here

(Return to top)


Trudeau Airport in MontrealGraham Hughes/The Canadian Press

YUL Montreal-Trudeau International Airport

  • Domestic and international fliers can reserve a security screening time through YUL Express (free). Those heading to the United States can use the Mobile Passport Control app to save time at U.S. customs.
  • Montreal Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel includes a 24-hour fitness centre and Altispa, where you can book a pressotherapy treatment to stimulate circulation and lymphatic drainage.
Read the full list of YUL tips here

(Return to top)


Allways Concierge Service at Pearson International Airport provides curb-to-gate escort and Plaza Premium Lounge access for $299.45 a person.Joy of Life Photography/Handout

YYZ Pearson International Airport

  • The airport website features a wait time dashboard for airline counters, security and U.S. customs.
  • Domestic and international travellers can use YYZ Express (free) to make an online reservation for security screening up to 72 hours in advance. Travellers heading to the United States can use the Mobile Passport Control app to submit customs information.
Read the full list of YYZ tips here

(Return to top)


Green Coat volunteers and customer care staff can provide assistance at YVRVancouver Airport Authority

YVR Vancouver International Airport

  • Passengers flying to the U.S. can reserve a security screening slot through YVR Express (free). Use the YVR Order Now app to skip the line and pick up from YVR dining options.
  • Fliers can pass time taking in the airport’s comprehensive Indigenous art collection.
Read the full list of YVR tips here

(Return to top)