YEG bracing for busiest holiday season in years

The Edmonton International Airport is preparing for what-could-be its busiest travel season in years.

According to YEG, anticipated travel volumes are expected to be the highest they've been since before the COVID-19 pandemic. To accommodate an estimated 28,000 travelers a day, Manager of Corporate Communications Erin Isfeld says the airport will be rolling out new hospitality measures for travelers.

"Right from the curb, we'll have volunteers there to meet them, grab their luggage, and help them into the terminal," said Isfeld. "Get them checked in through their airline, and get them safely through security as well."

She says that passenger volumes at the Edmonton International Airport are projected to reach 8.1 million in 2025, putting them on track to fully return to pre-pandemic levels. Isfeld says it’s been a long road back to normal volumes.

"It has taken a few years for us to get back to that," said Isfeld. "We've re-built our non-stop destinations, we've re-built some of the great amenities that we have here at the airport, and now we take a look at going forward. We have so much to look forward to in the upcoming year."

YEG is also offering tips for travelers looking for the smoothest possible travel experience this holiday season. They advise people to arrive two hours before domestic departures and three hours before international departures, in order to navigate higher volumes at the airport. In addition, travelers are advised to check their airline's website to confirm baggage allowances, and visit catsa.gc.ca for helpful tips like a travel checklist and the "What Can I Bring" tool.

"Our focus this year is on comfort, connection, and creating a warm and welcoming experience for everyone passing through YEG," said Carmen Donnelly, Vice President, Passenger Experience & Terminal Operations. "Whether you’re reuniting with family, heading somewhere tropical or arriving home for the holidays, we want to make every journey a little brighter."

The airport also notes that YEG's maintenance and operations crews prepare year-round and work around the clock to ensure safe conditions for aircraft and passengers. This includes critical snow removal equipment, along with additional team members on call to respond if required.