Calgary International Airport

Calgary International Airport (YYC) is Canada's fourth-busiest airport and the primary gateway to the Canadian Rockies, including Banff National Park. Located approximately 17 km northeast of downtown Calgary, the airport serves as the headquarters and main hub for WestJet and is a focus city for Air Canada.

The airport has two main terminal buildings connected by a 620-metre walkway:

Domestic Terminal (opened 1977):

• Concourse A (A1, A2): WestJet regional and domestic flights
• Concourse B: Multiple airlines (currently closed for repairs until 2026)
• Concourse C: Air Canada domestic hub

International Terminal (opened 2016):

• Concourse D: International flights (non-US) and some domestic
• Concourse E: US-bound flights with US Preclearance facility

A key feature is the US Preclearance facility in Concourse E, where passengers clear US Customs and Border Protection before boarding, allowing arrival at US airports as domestic passengers.

The YYC Link passenger shuttle system uses twenty 10-seat electric vehicles to transport connecting passengers between terminals, operating from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM.

In 2024, YYC welcomed approximately 18.9 million passengers, surpassing its pre-pandemic record.

Calgary International Airport is located 17 km northeast of downtown Calgary, with bus service via Route 300 BRT. There is currently no direct rail connection to the airport, though a future CTrain extension is planned.

Typical travel times:

• Downtown Calgary by bus: 45-55 minutes via Route 300
• Downtown Calgary by taxi/rideshare: 20-35 minutes (traffic dependent)
• Banff: 90 minutes by shuttle or car (145 km)
• Edmonton: 3 hours by car (296 km)

Rideshare

Uber is the only rideshare service available at YYC (Lyft does not operate here).

• Pickup location: Arrivals level, outside Doors 3, 5, 11, 12, or 15
• Services available: UberX, Uber Comfort, Uber XL, Uber Green, Uber Pet
• Typical fare to downtown: CAD $30-45 (~USD $22-33)
• Cost per km: CAD $0.90
• Minimum fare: CAD $5.95

Taxi

Taxi stands are located outside the arrivals level.

Destination	Fare (CAD)	Fare (USD)	Time
Downtown Calgary	$35-45	$26-33	20-35 min
Kensington	$40-50	$29-37	25-35 min
University of Calgary	$30-40	$22-29	15-25 min
Banff (pre-booked)	$180-220	$132-161	90 min

All taxis accept credit cards. Fares may vary based on traffic conditions.

Tip: Uber is typically CAD $10-15 cheaper than taxis for downtown trips.

Route 300 BRT (Airport/City Centre)

The Route 300 BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) provides direct service between YYC and downtown Calgary.

To Downtown Calgary:

1. Exit arrivals and locate Bay 7 (across from Door 2) or Bay 32 (across from Door 15)
2. Board Route 300 direction City Centre
3. Exit at City Hall or 7 Avenue stops for downtown

Ticket Type	Price (CAD)	Price (USD)
Airport single (includes all-day transit)	$10.75	$7.85
Regular single (non-airport boarding)	$3.80	$2.75
Day Pass	$11.95	$8.70

Note: The CAD $10.75 airport fare includes all-day access to buses and CTrain, plus your return trip to the airport if traveling the same day.

Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes Travel time to downtown: 45-55 minutes Operating hours: Early morning to late evening (check Calgary Transit for current schedule)

Where to buy tickets:

• Mac's convenience stores (near Arrivals Doors 1 and 11)
• Ticket vending machines at Bay 7 or Bay 32
• Cash on board (exact change required, no change given)

CTrain Connection

The nearest CTrain (light rail) station is McKnight-Westwinds Station on the Blue Line, approximately 8 km from the airport. Route 300 does not connect directly to this station. For most travelers, taking Route 300 directly downtown is faster than transferring to CTrain.

Future Development: A direct airport rail connection is under study and would link YYC to the Blue and Green Line LRT systems, potentially offering service every 15 minutes to downtown.

YYC offers multiple parking options with online pre-booking discounts.

Short-Term Parking (P1/P2 Ground Level)

Duration	Rate (CAD)
First 20 minutes	Free
Per 30 minutes	$5.00
Daily maximum	$54.95

• Ground level of P1/P2 parkade
• 1-5 minute walk to terminals
• Best for pickups and drop-offs

Long-Term Parking (P1/P2 Upper Levels)

Duration	Rate (CAD)
Per hour	$10.00
Daily	$27.95
Weekly	$99.95

• P1 (Parkade 1): Closest to Domestic Terminal
• P2 (Parkade 2): Near International Terminal
• Direct covered walkway to terminals

Economy Parking

Duration	Rate (CAD)
Daily	$14.95
Weekly	$64.95

• North side of YYC, approximately 7-minute walk to terminals
• No shuttle service available
• Best value for extended stays

Cellphone Waiting Lot

• Free parking up to 60 minutes
• For waiting to pick up arriving passengers
• Follow signs from airport entrance

Tip: Book online at yyc.com/park for discounts up to 20%.

YYC offers 14 dining options before security and 33 after security.

Concourse A (Post-Security)

• Deville Coffee: Local Calgary roaster, excellent espresso drinks
• A&W: Classic Canadian fast food
• Chili's Grill & Bar (Gate A12): Full-service casual dining, burgers, ribs, salads

Concourse C (Post-Security)

• Wander Kitchen & Bar: New in 2025, globally-inspired menu from Top Chef Canada competitor Nicole Gomes
• Tim Hortons: Canadian coffee and donut chain
• Belgian Beer Cafe: European pub fare, craft beers

Concourse D - International (Post-Security)

• Green Chili: Indian cuisine with Chinese and Nepalese influences
• OPA! of Greece: Greek fast-casual
• Netsui Sushi & Japanese Grill: Fresh sushi and Japanese dishes
• Codo Agave Social House: Upscale dining with private couch pods

Concourse E - US Departures (Post-Security)

• The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck: Upscale dining from the celebrity chef
• Manchu Wok: Quick Asian stir-fry and noodles

Pre-Security

• Yakima Social Kitchen + Bar: Locally inspired menu with Aboriginal, Asian, and North American influences
• Tim Hortons: Multiple locations
• Starbucks: Standard coffee options

Budget tip: Prices are typical airport rates. For better value, eat before clearing security or grab items from 7-Eleven near arrivals.

Free WiFi is available throughout Calgary International Airport.

Detail	Information
Network name	YYC-Free-WiFi
Registration	Accept terms and conditions
Time limit	4 hours
Speed	Good for browsing and email

Additional options:

• eduroam: Available for university students and researchers
• Lounge WiFi: Faster connections available in airport lounges

YYC has partnered with TELUS to implement a 5G private wireless network throughout the airport for improved connectivity.

SIM card options at the airport are limited compared to downtown Calgary.

Airport Locations

• Rogers/Fido kiosk (International Arrivals): SIM cards with monthly plans from CAD $65+
• 7-Eleven (pre-security): SpeakOut SIM cards (Rogers network), pay-as-you-go from CAD $15

Major Canadian Carriers

Provider	Typical Prepaid Cost (CAD)	Notes
Rogers	From $65/month	Best coverage
Fido	From $45/month	Budget Rogers alternative
Bell	From $65/month	Good coverage
Telus	From $65/month	Good coverage
Chatr	From $35/month	Budget option

Requirements: Passport or government ID, credit/debit card, unlocked phone

Tip: Airport prices are significantly higher than downtown stores. If your phone supports eSIM, consider purchasing one online before arrival. For better deals on physical SIMs, visit carrier stores on Stephen Avenue or in Chinook Centre mall.

ATMs are located throughout all terminal areas in both arrivals and departures.

Currency

• Canada: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
• Exchange rate: Approximately 1 USD = 1.35-1.40 CAD (check current rates)

Currency Exchange

ICE Currency Exchange and other exchange counters are located in arrivals and departures. Airport rates include significant markups (often 5-10% worse than bank rates).

Better alternatives:

• Withdraw CAD from ATMs using a no-fee debit card (TD, BMO, Scotiabank ATMs available)
• Canada is highly card-friendly; contactless payments accepted almost everywhere
• Use Wise or Revolut for better exchange rates
• Many establishments accept US dollars but give change in CAD at poor rates

YYC offers 24 shops total, with 7 before security and 17 after security.

Duty-Free

Calgary Duty Free operates two stores:

• International Departures (Concourse D): For non-US international flights
• US Departures (Concourse E): For US-bound flights

Products include:

• Premium spirits (Johnnie Walker, Jack Daniel's, Canadian whisky)
• Cosmetics and fragrances (Estee Lauder, Clinique)
• Confectionery and souvenirs
• Canadian maple syrup and local products

Tip: Reserve online at calgary.shopdutyfree.com for 20% off selected items.

Note: Duty-free is only available on departure; there are no duty-free shops in arrivals/baggage claim.

Notable Stores

• Hudson News: Books, magazines, travel essentials (multiple locations)
• InMotion: Electronics and travel accessories
• Local gift shops: Canadian souvenirs, Indigenous art, Alberta-themed items

YYC has several lounge options, primarily serving WestJet and Air Canada as major carriers.

Priority Pass Lounges

Elevation Lounge (Concourse B):

• Access: Priority Pass, select credit cards
• Status: Temporarily impacted by Concourse B closure (verify current status)

Aspire Lounge - Transborder (Concourse E):

• Access: Priority Pass, Amex cards, DragonPass, Business Class on select airlines
• Amenities: Food, beverages, WiFi, comfortable seating
• Best for: US-bound travelers

Aspire Lounge - International (Concourse D):

• Access: Priority Pass, Amex cards, DragonPass, Business Class on select airlines
• Amenities: Hot and cold food, bar, showers
• Best for: International departures

Airline Lounges

WestJet Elevation Lounge (Concourse B - Domestic):

• Access: WestJet Business, WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard holders
• Note: WestJet's flagship lounge, opened 2020
• Status: Verify availability due to Concourse B closure

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge:

• YYC does not have a dedicated Maple Leaf Lounge
• Air Canada passengers can access partner lounges

Day Pass Options

• Aspire lounges offer day passes from approximately CAD $50-65
• Check Priority Pass or lounge websites for current pricing

At the Airport

Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel

• Located directly connected to the terminal
• Soundproofed rooms with runway, city, or mountain views
• Indoor pool, 24-hour fitness centre, spa
• Restaurant and bar on-site
• From CAD $200/night (~USD $145)
• Best option for early flights or long layovers

Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Airport In-Terminal

• Also located within the terminal complex
• Full-service hotel with dining options
• Similar amenities to Marriott

Near the Airport

• Courtyard by Marriott Calgary Airport: 8 km away, free shuttle hourly 4:15 AM-11:30 PM, indoor pool, from CAD $150/night
• Residence Inn Calgary Airport: Extended stay option, free shuttle, from CAD $160/night
• Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Airport: 12 min drive, free shuttle, saltwater pool, from CAD $140/night
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Airport: Extended stay, kitchens, from CAD $150/night

Calgary is the gateway to the Canadian Rockies and offers a mix of urban culture and outdoor adventure. Downtown is 25-35 minutes from the airport by rideshare or bus.

Getting to Key Attractions

Destination	Travel Time	Route
Downtown Calgary	25-35 min	Route 300 or rideshare
Calgary Tower	30-40 min	Route 300 to City Hall
Calgary Zoo	25-30 min	Rideshare or transit
Banff National Park	90 min	Shuttle or rental car
Lake Louise	2 hours	Shuttle or rental car
Kananaskis	60-75 min	Rental car recommended

Banff Shuttle Services

Multiple shuttle services connect YYC directly to Banff and the Canadian Rockies:

• Brewster Express: Direct service to Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper
• Banff Airporter: Flexible schedule, direct to Banff hotels
• The Fairy Bus: Daily service to Canmore and Banff
• Typical fare: CAD $70-90 (~USD $50-65) one way
• Book in advance, especially during ski season (December-April) and summer (June-August)

Layover Recommendations

• 4-hour layover: Stay at the airport, explore dining options, visit the Aspire Lounge
• 6-hour layover: Quick trip downtown via Route 300, walk Stephen Avenue, grab lunch, return
• 8+ hour layover: Visit the Calgary Tower, explore Kensington neighborhood, East Village, or the National Music Centre

Calgary Specialties

• Alberta beef: World-renowned, try a steak at Charcut or Modern Steak downtown
• Craft beer: Local breweries including Big Rock, Wild Rose, Tool Shed
• Coffee: Phil & Sebastian, Monogram Coffee (local favorites)
• Ginger beef: Calgary invention, available at Chinese restaurants citywide

Day Trips from Calgary

• Banff National Park: 90 minutes, world-class scenery, hiking, Banff Gondola, hot springs
• Lake Louise: 2 hours, iconic turquoise lake, canoeing, hiking
• Drumheller: 90 minutes, Royal Tyrrell Museum (dinosaur fossils), badlands
• Kananaskis Country: 60 minutes, hiking, mountain scenery, less crowded than Banff

Practical Tips

• Weather: Calgary has extreme temperature variations. Summer highs reach 25-30C (77-86F), winter lows can drop to -20C (-4F) or colder
• Chinooks: Warm winter winds can raise temperatures by 20C in hours
• Tipping: 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars
• GST: 5% sales tax applies to most purchases (no provincial sales tax in Alberta)
• Banff National Park pass: Required for entry, purchase online or at park gates (CAD $11/day per person)