Busiest travel days of the year at Ottawa airport this weekend

Travellers at the Ottawa airport on Friday, March 10, 2023. (Leah Larocque/CTV News Ottawa)

The Ottawa airport is reminding holiday passengers to be prepared and to plan in advance for the peak of the holiday travel rush this weekend.

The airport said in a news release that Friday, Sunday and Monday will be the busiest days of the year, with most flights at or near capacity.

To make sure the experience stays peaceful and festive, the airport has curated a program with treats and musical performances to ease travellers' nerves.

The airport will bring back its holiday music program from Dec. 21 to 24. Returning artists include Maria Hawkins, Sing House Studies and the Maple Leaf Horn Quartet. Local artists Kaede Nguyen, the University of Ottawa Choir, Dickens Carolers and the Celebration Brass Quintet will also fill the airport with holiday classics and original songs.

"Surprise and delight" goodies will be offered to passengers and greeters on Dec. 23.

"Planning is key to smooth travel, as is preparing for the unexpected. Inclement weather and delays can impact flights, even during this magical time. Pack smart, arrive early, and don't forget to pack extra patience to make sure your journey is jolly," said Ottawa Airport Authority spokesperson Krista Kealey in a news release.

The airport is providing the following travel tips to lessen holiday travel stress:

Before your trip:

• Save time and check in for your flight online from home
• Ensure all travellers in your group have proper identification
• If you’re travelling with children, bring books or toys to keep them occupied while you wait for your flight
• The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority website has information about what you can and can’t take in your carry-on luggage
• If you plan to take gifts in your carry-on, don’t wrap them - they may need to be inspected during the security screening
• Pack medications and valuables in your carry-on
• If there is inclement weather, check your flight status with your airline before making your way to the airport and give yourself extra time
• Reserve parking online to guarantee your spot
• Download your airline’s app for handy features and helpful information
• Find out if you’re already a ‘Verified Traveller’ or consider joining the NEXUS or Global Entry program
• Visit the Travel from YOW page or the Travel to YOW page for even more tips

At the Airport

• If you’re travelling to a sunshine destination, you can store your winter gear at the airport for a small fee. PARS 2000, located in the Arrivals area on Level 1, is open 24/7
• Information about the Sunflower Lanyard program, the Aira app, and other accessibility services and features at YOW, is available on the airport’s Accessibility page
• The Passenger Concierge is a curb-to-cabin service available for a fee
• There are in-terminal animal relief stations available in both the Canada/International and U.S. gate areas
• Stay connected with YOW’s free WiFi and device charging receptacles throughout the terminal
• There are many new restaurants, including local favourites Bridgehead, La Bottega and Big Rig in the Canada/International gate area
• Need to pick up a last-minute gift? The airport has you covered in the Centre Court area with The Locks, No Boundaries, a duty free store, among others
• Picking up a passenger? Wait for them in our Cell Phone Lot, located at the north-west corner of Airport Parkway Private and Air Cargo Private

Prepare your return to Canada

• The Canada Border Services Agency website has a guide for residents returning to Canada
• Save time when making your customs and immigration declaration by using Advance Declaration

Prepare to fly to the U.S.

• The free Mobile Passport Control app can speed up your entry to the United States