First Time at Calgary Airport? Complete YYC Guide

YYC Airport Overview

Calgary International Airport is Canada's fourth-busiest airport, serving over 18 million passengers annually. It is the primary hub for WestJet and a major destination for Air Canada, with direct flights from Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and numerous US and international cities. The airport is located about 17 kilometres northeast of downtown Calgary.

The most important thing to know: YYC has been modernized into a single, unified terminal building. While older guides may reference separate domestic and international terminals, a major renovation consolidated everything into one connected concourse. This means less walking, less confusion, and easier connections. All gates, restaurants, shops, and services are accessible within the same building.

The Arrival Process

Domestic Arrivals (Within Canada)

If you are flying from another Canadian city, the process is straightforward. After your plane reaches the gate, follow signs to the baggage claim area on the arrivals level. Collect your luggage from the assigned carousel (displayed on screens throughout the terminal), then proceed through the exit to the ground transportation area. No customs or immigration is required for domestic flights. The entire process from gate to curbside typically takes 15-25 minutes.

International and US Arrivals

International visitors will proceed through Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) customs and immigration after deplaning. You will need your passport, a completed customs declaration (available on the ArriveCAN app or paper forms provided on the aircraft), and any visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) documentation. After clearing customs, collect your checked baggage and exit through the arrivals hall.

NEXUS card holders and Global Entry members can use automated kiosks for significantly faster processing - typically 5-10 minutes versus 15-45 minutes in the regular queue. If you travel to Canada frequently, NEXUS is well worth the application.

Ground Transportation Options

Once you exit the arrivals hall with your luggage, you have several options for getting to your destination. Here is a comparison of everything available at YYC:

For detailed downtown transportation comparison, see our dedicated YYC to Downtown guide. The taxi stand is located immediately outside the arrivals doors on the lower level. Rideshare pickup has a designated zone on the same level, marked with clear signage. For pre-booked private limo service, your chauffeur will be waiting in the arrivals hall with a name sign, or curbside at an arranged location.

Airport Amenities

Tips for International Visitors

Weather Preparation

Calgary's weather can be extreme, especially if you are arriving from a warmer climate. Winter temperatures routinely drop to -20C to -30C (-4F to -22F), and even autumn and spring can bring sudden snowstorms. In summer, temperatures reach 25-30C (77-86F) but can drop sharply in the evenings.

If you are visiting between October and April, pack a warm winter jacket, gloves, a toque (what Canadians call a winter hat), and warm boots in your carry-on - not just your checked luggage. The walk from the terminal to a vehicle, even in the covered parking structure, can be bitterly cold. If you are heading to the mountains, expect temperatures 5-10 degrees colder than Calgary itself.

Getting to Popular Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions