Calgary International Airport Guide

Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the gateway to the city of Calgary, Alberta, and one of the busiest airports in Canada. Serving millions of passengers each year, YYC offers a variety of amenities and services to make your travel experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a frequent flier, navigating through an unfamiliar airport can be overwhelming.

In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with all the information that you need to know about YYC Calgary International Airport, including its facilities, services, transportation options, and more. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of what to expect during your next trip to YYC, and how to make the most of your time at the airport.

General Info YYC Airport 

Below is the table that gives you a brief overview of the Calgary International Airport.

Calgary International Airport Map

Browse the Calgary airport map.

Calgary International Airport Code

Calgary Airport code is YYC. This 3 letter airport code for the Calgary aviation hub has been assigned by International Air Transport Association (IATA). Calgary airport postal code is Alberta T2E 6W5. YYC Airport is located 11 miles northeast of Alberta in Canada at a height of 1099 meters above sea level.

YYC Calgary International Airport Terminal Map

Browse the Terminal map below to exactly find what you’re looking for – 

YYC Airport Codes

Flights Operating from the Calgary International Airport

Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the main airport serving Calgary, Alberta, Canada. It is a hub for Air Canada and WestJet, and serves as a focus city for Flair Airlines and Swoop.

Here are some of the major flights to Calgary International Airport:

• Air Canada – The airport’s two terminal buildings, both with top-notch amenities, house Air Canada operations. Passengers can request Air Canada unaccompanied minor service at the check-in counter of YYC airport. Also, they can request Air Canada pet travel services, Air Canada flight changes, and all other travel-related services.

• WestJet – At YYC, WestJet operates out of Terminal 1 and offers both domestic and international flights. Passengers can request last-minute Westjet flight cancellations, WestJet Baggage Allowance for Domestic & International Flights, seat upgrade, and more at the check-in counter. 

• Flair Airlines – Flair operates out of terminal 2 and offers both domestic and international flights. If making a Flair Airlines cancellation at the airport, you must do so 3 hours before the scheduled departure. 

• Swoop – The airline operates out of terminal 2. Passengers can request Swoop Airlines flight cancellation at least 2 hours before their domestic flight and at least 3 hours before your international flight.

• Alaska Airlines – At YYC, Alaska Airlines operates out of Concourse C and offers flights to destinations in the United States. Suppose you are flying from Calgary International Airport. In that case, Passengers can request Alaska unaccompanied minor service, Alaska Airlines pet travel, Alaska check-in at the airport, cancel Alaska flight at last-minute, change in Alaska Airlines, and baggage and more at YYC airport.

• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines – At YYC, KLM operates out of Concourse E and offers flights to Amsterdam, from where passengers can connect to various other destinations across Europe and beyond. If you are flying with KLM from Calgary International Airport, you will need to add baggage, or KLM flight cancellation at least 2 hours before the scheduled departure. 

• Lufthansa – The airline has dedicated Lufthansa checked baggage drop-off counters at the airport for passengers who have already checked in online or through the mobile app. The airline also offers baggage storage facilities for passengers who need to store their luggage for a few hours or days.

• Air Transat – Air Transat usually has a customer service counter at terminal 1 where passengers can check in their luggage, request flight cancellation, and more. They may also have baggage storage facilities at the airport.

• Sunwing Airlines – Sunwing Airlines offers direct flights to a number of domestic and international destinations from YYC Airport, including destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean, and the United States. Some of the popular destinations served by Sunwing Airlines include Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Varadero, and Los Cabos.

Note that airlines serving Calgary International airport may change over time. 

Nearest Airport to YYC

The nearest airport to Calgary International Airport is the Calgary/Springbank Airport (YBW), located about 18 kilometers (11 miles) west of downtown Calgary. 

However, it should be noted that the Calgary/Springbank Airport is a smaller, general aviation airport and does not offer commercial flights.

If you’re looking for a commercial airport near Calgary International Airport, the next closest airport is the 

• Red Deer Regional Airport (YQF), is located about 142 kilometers (88 miles) north of Calgary. 
• Edmonton International Airport (YEG) is also within driving distance, located approximately 295 kilometers (183 miles) north of Calgary.

Calgary Airport International Terminal

Calgary International Airport has several terminals that serve different airlines and destinations. The airport is segregated into two terminals – one for domestic and transborder flights, and the other for international flights. Concourse A, B, and C serve domestic and transborder flights. Concourse D and e serve international flights. 

Concourse A

Concourse A is located on the east side of the Main Terminal and serves primarily domestic flights operated by Air Canada, WestJet, and their regional partners.

Concourse B

Concourse B is located on the west side of the Main Terminal and serves primarily international flights and US transborder flights operated by Air Canada, United Airlines, and WestJet.

Concourse C

It is also located on the west side of the Main Terminal and serves primarily domestic and US transborder flights operated by Delta Air Lines and WestJet.

Concourse D

It is located on the south side of the Main Terminal and serves primarily Calgary airport international flights operated by non-Canadian airlines.

Concourse E

This concourse serves the Calgary airport international terminal which serves overseas flights that are bound further to and from the United States. 

Overall, Calgary International Airport has a modern and efficient terminal system that offers a wide range of services and amenities for passengers, including dining options, duty-free shopping, lounges, and more.

List of Airlines operating from Calgary Airport

Runway at Calgary International Airport

Calgary International Airport has two runways: Runway 17L/35R and Runway 17R/35L.

• Runway 17L/35R is the primary runway at the airport, and it measures 12,675 feet in length and 200 feet in width. It is equipped with a category III instrument landing system (ILS), which allows aircraft to land in low visibility conditions.

• Runway 17R/35L is the secondary runway at the airport, and it measures 8,000 feet in length and 200 feet in width. It is also equipped with an ILS.

Both runways at YYC are made of asphalt and concrete, and they can accommodate a wide range of aircraft, including small regional jets and large wide-body airliners.

YYC Runway Data

Security at Calgary International Airport

YYC, like all major airports, has security checkpoints that all passengers must go through before boarding their flight. These checkpoints are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff by preventing any potential threats from entering the airport or boarding a plane.

Typically, security checkpoints involve several steps, including having your carry-on luggage and personal items scanned, passing through a metal detector or body scanner, and possibly undergoing a physical pat-down or search if there are any concerns. 

Below is the table mentioned for the pre-board screening location – 

Customs and immigration at Calgary International Airport

When arriving at YYC Calgary International Airport from an international destination, you will be required to clear customs and immigration. This process typically involves presenting your passport or other travel documents, answering questions about your travel itinerary and the purpose of your trip, and possibly undergoing a secondary screening by customs officers. Here are the procedures when entering Canada and the United States. 

• Entering Canada – When arriving at YYC, you must go through Canada Customs before being allowed to enter the country. Download the CanBorder e-Declaration App to expedite customs clearance and avoid long lines at the border. 

1. To make this process as fluid and straightforward as possible, adhere to the guidelines listed below: 

• If Calgary is your final stop, follow the “Baggage/Exit” instructions. 
• Please follow the “Connections” signs if you are connecting to another flight.

2. Continue to the Primary Inspection, the first checkpoint upon landing at YYC. 

• Primary Inspection kiosks are available at YYC to speed up entry into Canada for visitors and make it easier for CBSA personnel to check your travel documents and customs clearance.
• New NEXUS kiosks have arrived. When using the kiosk for the first time, NEXUS members must scan their passports, and tap their NEXUS cards. 

3. Once you have cleared the CBSA customs inspection, follow the directions to the baggage carousels, excess baggage (if necessary), or a Customer Care Ambassador if you are connecting to another Canadian location.

• Entering the United States – You will need to pass through U.S. Customs to gain admission before traveling to a U.S. location. To make this process as fluid and straightforward as possible, adhere to the guidelines listed below:

• Show your boarding pass and passport to security personnel as you proceed through the security checkpoint.
• Head to the U.S. Customs section after clearing security.
• You can unwind, shop, or eat before your departure at Concourse E, the Departures Hall after you have passed through U.S. customs.

Lounges at Calgary International Airport

Calgary International Airport lounges are available for passengers who want to relax or work before their flight. Here are some of the lounges you can find at the airport:

• Aspire Lounge – Located in the international terminal (Concourse D), the Aspire Lounge offers comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages, and free Wi-Fi. After clearing security, head to the lounge by following the signage. At Chili’s, immediately make a left or right turn, then proceed along the lounge lobby and into the elevator. Use the “Lounge” button to leave. Just in front of you is the lounge. Phone number: +1-403-455-9569.

• Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge – This lounge is located in the domestic terminal (Concourse C)  and is available to Air Canada passengers who have access through their frequent flyer status or by purchasing a day pass. It features comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and drinks, and free Wi-Fi. The lounge offers dine-in service daily from 5:15 a.m. to 7 p.m. There are health regulations for the province.

• WestJet Elevation Lounge – The WestJet Elevation Lounge is a premium airport lounge located at the Calgary International Airport (YYC) in Alberta, Canada. The lounge is exclusively available to WestJet Rewards Gold and Platinum members, as well as guests traveling in WestJet’s Business cabin. Daily hours for the WestJet Elevate Lounge are 5 a.m. to 10:15 p.m. Phone line: 1-403-200-4699.

• YYC Quiet Space – The designated section has comfortable chairs and loungers as well as free yoga equipment so you can stretch and unwind before your travel. Before you board the plane, read a book, meditate, perform some yoga, or simply find some serenity. The space is located beside Gate A24. 

Dining and Drinks at YYC

YYC Calgary International Airport offers a variety of dining and drink options for travelers. Here are some popular options:

• The Bow Valley Grill – located in the departures area, this restaurant offers Canadian cuisine and features local ingredients.

• Jugo Juice – for those looking for a quick and healthy drink, Jugo Juice offers a variety of smoothies and fresh juices. Timings: 05:00 AM – 11:59 PM. Contact: +1-403-717-1755

• Tim Hortons – a Canadian favorite, Tim Hortons offers coffee, donuts, and other baked goods. It is located at Concourse A and Concourse C. Timings:  05:30 AM – 10:30 PM. 

• Chili’s – Located at Concourse D this restaurant offers Tex-Mex cuisine and a full bar. Timings: 05:00 AM – 08:00 PM. Contact: 403-475-8433. 

• Starbucks – for those in need of a caffeine fix, Starbucks offers a variety of coffee drinks, tea, and snacks. Timings: 05:00 AM – 06:00 PM. 

• Vin Room – a wine bar located in the international terminal at Concourse D, Vin Room offers a wide selection of wines and small plates. Timings: 07:00 AM – 08:00 PM. Contact: + 1-587-353-1594. 

• Skyway Gourmet Burger Co. – Located in the domestic terminal, this restaurant offers a variety of gourmet burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

These are just a few of the many dining and drink options available at Calgary International Airport. 

WiFi and Charging Facilities at YYC

YYC Calgary International Airport provides charging facilities for its passengers.

• WiFi – The airport provides free WiFi access to all passengers throughout the terminal buildings. 

• Charging Facilities: There are many charging stations throughout the terminal buildings for passengers to use. You can find the charging stations by looking for the universal charging icon or by asking airport staff for assistance.

Lost and Found Counter at Calgary International Airport

The counter opens daily from 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. If a returned item is not picked up within 30 days, it may be donated to the YYC Calgary International Airport Chapel. The following information is required of owners claiming lost property found on or near airport grounds:

• Time the item was lost
• General location details of the missing item
• Features that help in finding a missing item
• Adequate identification

On-site pickup – Once an item has been correctly identified by the owner, it can be picked up during regular business hours. At the time of pickup, a photo ID is necessary. Owners’ representatives may take up objects with valid identification and verified authorization of the owners.

• Please notify the airport of the loss as soon as possible.
• Please notify Passport Canada if you lose your passport.
• Calgary international airport Lost and Found Telephone number: 403 735 1234 
• Email address: yyclostandfound@yyc.com

Additional facilities/amenities at YYC International airport

However, here are some common facilities you might find at an international airport:

• Duty-free shops – There are several duty-free shops at YYC international airport, where passengers can purchase tax-free goods such as cosmetics, alcohol, and tobacco. There are two Duty-Free stores at YYC

• Baggage storage – There are baggage storage facilities at YYC international airport, where passengers can store their luggage for a fee

• Info Centres – There are 4 info centers available at the YYC Calgary International Airport.  Here’s the contact information you need. Phone: +1-403-735-1234. Email: InfoCentre@yyc.com.

• Currency exchange – There are currency exchange offices at YYC international airport where passengers can exchange their currency for the local currency. The Calgary international airport money exchange counter is located at.

• YYC Link Shuttle – It is a complimentary shuttle service provided by the Calgary International Airport shuttle service team to transport passengers between terminals, parking lots, and nearby hotels. The shuttle operates 24/7 and runs on a continuous loop, so passengers can catch a ride every 15 to 20 minutes depending on the time of day. The shuttle stops at Concourse A, B, C, and D. 

Travel to and from YYC

There are several transportation options available to travel to and from Calgary International Airport:

• Taxi – Taxis are available outside the terminal building 24/7. The fare to downtown Calgary is approximately CAD 40-45. Taxi stands can be found on the Arrivals Level at YYC, where cab service is offered. A taxi stand is located outside Doors 1, 9, and 15. Book cabs at +1-403-299-1111.

• Ride-hailing services – Popular ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available at the airport. You must meet your ride-share driver on the Arrivals Level curbside at the recommended pickup spots at Doors 3, 11, or 15 after making transportation arrangements. The Arrivals Level curbside is where ride-share vehicles drop off their passengers.

• Limousines – Travelers can choose from the following limousine companies at Calgary International Airport:

• Public transportation – Calgary Transit offers several bus routes that connect the airport to various parts of the city. The 300 Route Airport/City Centre bus provides service to downtown Calgary, and the 100 Route Airport/McKnight-Westwinds CTrain Station bus provides service to the northeast and northwest areas of the city.

There are bus stops at the domestic terminal and the international terminal, respectively.

• Domestic terminal – At the domestic terminal, exit through Door 7 on the arrivals level to catch the bus. Cross the street at Door 2 and proceed to Pillar 7. This area contains ticket vending machines that accept cash, debit, or credit cards.

• International terminal – Exit through Door 15 on the Arrivals Level to catch the bus from the International Terminal. At Pillar 32, cross the street and take a position. There are ticket vending machines that accept cash, debit, or credit cards. 

Alternatively, you can buy bus tickets at the 7-Eleven convenience stores on Arrival close to Door 10.

• Shuttle services – Several shuttle services operate between the airport and various locations in the city, such as hotels and popular tourist attractions. Some of the shuttle services available include the Banff Airporter and the Brewster Express. On the Arrivals Level, across the street from the road, are Bus Bays 16, 17, and 37 where passengers can be picked up.

• Please use Door 4 to access Bus Bays 16 and 17.
• Please use Door 16 to enter Bus Bay 37.

Here are the list of hotels names and the phones number that help passengers to book the shuttle service – 

• Red Arrow Motorcoach – The best motorcoach travel business in Alberta, Red Arrow Motorcoach provides luxurious transportation to and from Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Lethbridge, Camrose, Grande Prairie, Fort McMurray, Cold Lake, and a number of other smaller locations in Alberta. The Red Arrow counter is found in Meeting Place B, which is across from Domestic Arrivals. The bus arrives in Bus Bay 11, just across from the Arrivals Level roadway, to pick up passengers. To make reservations, contact 1-800-232-1958 or visit www.redarrow.ca in advance.

• Airport Sedans – Airport sedans are available on demand and are situated next to the taxi stands on the Arrivals Level. They are accessible through Doors 2, 13, and between 15 and 16. 

Directions by Car to Calgary International Airport

Here are the driving directions to Calgary International Airport from the city center:

• Head south on 4 St SW toward 7 Ave SW. Turn left onto 9 Ave SW.
• Turn right onto Macleod Trail SE.
• Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto 17 Ave SE.
• Merge onto AB-2 N via the ramp to Edmonton.
• Take the Airport Trail exit toward Airport.
• Keep left at the fork, follow signs for Airport Trail E, and merge onto Airport Trail NE.
• Take the exit toward Barlow Trail.
• Merge onto Airport Trail NE. Turn left onto 19 St NE.
• Turn right onto Airport Rd NE. Continue straight, and the airport will be on your left.

Parking at Calgary International Airport

Calgary International Airport parking features several options – 

• Long-Term Parkades (P1, P2) – The Parkade is located directly across from the terminal building and offers both hourly and daily parking options. It is the most convenient parking option, but also the most expensive.

• The closest parking space for flights within Canada is Parkade 1.
• The closest parking is Parkade 2 if you are traveling internationally or to the United States.

• Economy Lot – Airport Road provides quick access to the Economy Lot. Low weekly and daily rates are available in the Economy Lot for extended stays of up to 60 days. The Economy Lot is a wonderful choice for long-term parking because it’s close to the terminal building and offers free luggage carts. At the drive-up exit stations after leaving the parking lot, credit and debit card payments are accepted.

• Overheight – The overheight space is conveniently next to the P1 parkade entrance and connected to the terminal by a designated walkway. It is designed to accept overweight vehicles. Overheight parking is offered for hourly, daily, or weekly parking and offers discounted weekly prices.

• Short-term parkades – The ground floor of Parkade 1 (P1) and Parkade 2 both have short-term parking that is perfect for picking up and dropping off passengers (P2). For flights within Canada, use Parkade 1. Use Parkade 2 when traveling abroad or to the United States. One hour is the suggested amount of time for short-term. Long-term parking will provide you a better deal if you are traveling or intend to remain for a while.

• Covered Lot – The Covered Lot is located just a short walk from the terminal building and offers covered parking for a slightly higher daily rate than the Economy Lot.

• Cell Phone Lot – The Cell Phone Lot is a free parking option for drivers waiting to pick up arriving passengers. It is located just minutes away from the terminal building. Drivers are advised to wait in the complimentary “Cell Phone” waiting area until their arriving visitor calls them, at which point they can pick up the passenger(s) from one of the five clearly marked designated pick-up zones. The greatest waiting time for visitors in this lot is 60 minutes. Please be aware that no vehicles shall be abandoned.

Hotels at Calgary International Airport

There are several hotels located near YYC  that offer convenient accommodations for travelers. Here are a few options:

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Airport In-Terminal – This Calgary international airport hotel is located directly within the airport terminal, making it a very convenient option for travelers. It offers modern rooms, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.
• Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Calgary-Airport – This hotel is located just a few minutes from the airport and offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the terminal. It features an indoor pool, fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.
• Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Airport – This hotel is located just a few minutes from the airport and offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the terminal. It features a 24-hour fitness center, indoor pool, and on-site restaurant.
• Acclaim Hotel Calgary Airport – This hotel is located about 5 minutes from the airport and offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the terminal. It features modern rooms, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary-Airport – This hotel is located just a few minutes from the airport and offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the terminal. It features suites with kitchenettes, complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.

Car Rental Services at Calgary International Airport

Calgary international airport Car Rental services are available at the Arrival Hall. However, passengers need to contact the following car rental agencies to know their exact location – 

• Avis  – Contact: 0124 472 4850
• Budget – Contact: +1-800-218-7992
• Enterprise – Contact: +1-855-266-9565
• Hertz – Contact: +1-800-654-4173
• National – Contact: +1-800-962-7070

It is recommended that you book your car rental at Calgary International Airport in advance to ensure availability and to get the best rates.

In conclusion, YYC is a modern and well-equipped airport that provides travelers with a range of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience. From transportation options to dining and shopping, there are plenty of options available for passengers to enjoy during their time at the airport. 

Additionally, with a variety of airlines operating out of the airport, passengers have access to a wide range of destinations both domestically and internationally. Overall, the Calgary International Airport is a top choice for travelers flying in and out of the Calgary region, and its passenger-friendly facilities and services make it an excellent gateway to the rest of the world.

Frequently Asked Questions