CALGARY – Calgary Airports and partners are gearing up for another busy holiday travel season at YYC Calgary International Airport, where we expect to welcome 1.48 million travellers through the month of December.
With an average 48,000 travellers moving through the terminal each day for reunions, getaways and year-end adventures, we’re focused on making every journey smooth, safe and enjoyable.
“Holiday stories begin at YYC, whether it’s a first flight, a long-awaited family reunion or a winter escape,” says Chris Miles, Chief Operating Officer at Calgary Airports. “This is one of the busiest and most imporant travel times of the year, and our teams are working together to deliver a safe, seamless experience, from curb to gate to takeoff.”
A little planing goes a long way during the busy holiday travel season. Here are our top travel tips to help guests travel with ease.
Give yourself extra time
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Arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight.
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Arrive at least three hours before an international flight to allow time for check in, security screening, and U.S. border control for those travelling to the U.S.
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Build in buffer time to account for winter road conditions when planning your travel to the airport.
Check your flight status
Ease your journey
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For travellers requiring a little extra help to navigate the terminal, YYC offers accessibility assistance for people of all ages and abilities.
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Travelling to the U.S.? Download U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Mobile Passport Control app to help reduce passport inspection time and overall wait times.
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When arriving internationally, save time at the border by downloading the ArriveCan App to complete your Advance Declaration up to 72 hours before your flight back to Canada.
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Pack smart, for helpful tips to get through security screening, visit the CATSA website at catsa.gc.ca. Check out the Travel Checklist and the ‘What Can I Bring?’ tools to help ensure a smooth and efficient screening experience.
New in 2025: Centralized Security Screening
With Phase 1 opening later this week, domestic travellers will experience YYC’s new Centralized Security Screening area, located between doors 4 and 7 on the departures level. Seven new lanes equipped with CATSA’s CT X-ray technology will allow guests to keep electronics and permitted liquids, aerosols and gels (100 mL or less each) in their carry-on bags – making security screening simpler and more efficient.
“As we invest in new infrastructure and technology, we do so keeping our guests at the heart of every decision,” Miles says. “From a calmer security screening experience to a runway that will serve the needs of our region for decades to come, we’re building an airport that is both welcoming and efficient – especially during the holidays.”
“The holiday season is one of the busiest travel times of the year, making CATSA’s installation of CT X-ray technology at the new centralized screening checkpoint timely. This advanced system uses 3D imaging to enhance security while allowing passengers to keep permitted liquids and electronics in their carry-on bags. With the support of YYC Calgary International Airport, CATSA is committed to delivering the highest standards of security screening while making the screening process more efficient.” - Neil Parry, President and Chief Executive Officer (interim)
"At Porter, our goal is to make your journey feel smooth and stress-free, and that starts before you even arrive at the airport. Use tools like the Porter app to stay informed of your flight status, check in early, and even add checked bags to your reservation if you think you'll be coming back with more gifts than you left with. Once you're onboard, enjoy our elevated service featuring complimentary premium snacks and beverages, including wine and beer in glassware, plus free onboard WiFi. It's an ideal way to begin and end a holiday trip." - Colleen Tynan, vice president, inflight services, Porter Airlines
“The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) stands ready to welcome travellers arriving at Calgary International Airport this busy holiday season,” said CBSA Director Lisa White. “Whether you’re a visitor to Canada or returning from abroad, be sure to plan ahead by having your travel documents ready and knowing your declaration exemption limits - including declaring all gifts you are bringing into Canada. For more travel tips and helpful resources, please visit the CBSA website.”
About Calgary Airports
Calgary Airports (formally, The Calgary Airport Authority) is a non-share capital corporation incorporated under the Regional Airports Authorities Act of Alberta. It is responsible for the management, operation and development of YYC Calgary International Airport and YBW Springbank Airport. Calgary Airports’ commitment to safety remains a top priority. Our airports are important economic generators for the city, region and province, supporting thousands of jobs and generating billions in GDP through associated economic activity. Calgary Airports was also recognized as one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 2025.
This news release contains certain forward-looking statements about our current expectations, estimates and projections about the future, based on certain assumptions made by us in light of our experience and perception of historical trends. Although The Authority believes that the expectations represented by such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied.
Media Relations
Calgary Airports
P: 403 735 5899
media@yyc.com