Air Travel Guide: Edmonton

Airport Essentials

Edmonton International YEG

YEG is located approximately 26 kilometers (16 miles) south of downtown Edmonton. It is the only major airport serving the city.

Airport Hub

YEG handles both domestic and international flights.
It functions as the main air gateway for Edmonton and surrounding areas.
The airport offers various transfer options to reach the city and accommodation.

Airlines & Routes

Domestic airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, Flair Airlines, and Lynx Air provide frequent connections to major Canadian cities.

International Links

KLM offers direct flights to Amsterdam, a direct link to Europe.
Icelandair connects to Reykjavík, providing another European gateway.
Sunwing offers seasonal direct flights to popular sun destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean, mainly during winter.

Seasonal Variations

Flight frequency and the availability of direct international routes often vary seasonally. More options to sun destinations appear in winter, while summer sees increased travel.

Price Peaks

Flight prices generally peak during the busy summer months (June-August) and around major holidays (e.g., Christmas, New Year's, Easter).

Check Schedules

Always check current flight schedules as they can change. Direct flights simplify travel when available.

Airport Services & Transfers

YEG Facilities

Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.
Various dining options including full-service restaurants, cafes, and fast-food.
Selection of retail shops for last-minute purchases or souvenirs.
The Renaissance Edmonton Airport Hotel is located directly within the terminal complex.

Transfer Options

ETS Bus Route 747 connects the airport directly to Century Park LRT Station (CAD $5.00).
SkyShuttle shared-ride service offers transfers to hotels and specific addresses (CAD $18-25 one-way).
Taxis (approx. CAD $50-60 to downtown) and Uber/Lyft services are available at YEG.
Major car rental companies have counters at the airport for easy pickup.

Flight Booking Resources

Deal Alerts

Dollar Flight Club for discovering affordable flight deals.

Flight Comparison

Skyscanner for comparing flight options from various airlines.

Travel Insurance

Consider World Nomads or SafetyWing for comprehensive travel insurance coverage.

Land Travel

Train Connections

VIA Rail Canada serves Edmonton at the Edmonton VIA Rail Station, located west of downtown.

Rail Services

VIA Rail offers scenic long-distance train services connecting Edmonton to Vancouver (westbound) and Winnipeg/Toronto (eastbound).
Train service is generally infrequent, typically running 2-3 times per week.
Train travel provides a relaxing and picturesque way to journey through the Canadian landscape.

Long-Distance Buses

Greyhound Canada discontinued its operations in Western Canada, so regional carriers now serve as the main options for intercity bus travel.

Bus Companies

Red Arrow provides premium intercity bus service within Alberta.
Red Arrow offers comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and convenient schedules.
Ebus and Rider Express offer more economical services across Alberta and parts of Western Canada.

Self-Driving in Alberta

Canada drives on the right side of the road. A valid driver's license from your home country is required.

Driving Essentials

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or French.
Winter tires (marked with a mountain snowflake symbol) are highly recommended from November to March.
Always check 511 Alberta for real-time road conditions and highway closures before winter drives.

Border Crossing US

For travelers entering Canada from the United States by land, the main crossing point into Alberta is Coutts, Alberta / Sweet Grass, Montana.

Entry Procedures

A valid passport remains required for all travelers.
Be prepared to declare all goods and adhere to Canadian customs regulations regarding alcohol, tobacco, and food items.
Expect questions about your purpose of visit and duration of stay from border officers.

Road Safety & Hazards

Be aware of wildlife, especially outside city limits on rural highways, at dusk and dawn.
Speed limits are strictly enforced across Alberta.
Canadian road rules apply to all drivers.

Driving in Alberta during winter (November to March) can be challenging due to snow and ice.
Inside Edmonton, city roads are generally well-kept, though watch for construction, especially in summer.
Potholes can develop after winter due to freeze-thaw cycles.

Departure Information

Departure Timing

No specific exit fees or taxes are collected separately at Edmonton International Airport (YEG) upon departure.

Recommended Arrival

For international flights (including to the US), arrive at YEG at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure time.
For domestic flights within Canada, arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
Allow extra time during peak travel seasons, major holidays, or if checking oversized luggage.

Departure Procedures

This allows sufficient time for check-in and security screening before your flight.

Airport Process

For US-bound flights, pre-clearance with US Customs and Border Protection is necessary.
If you are checking oversized luggage, ensure you allow extra time for the process.
Security lines can be longer during busy periods, so planning ahead is wise.

Dining & Shopping

YEG offers a variety of dining and shopping options, including duty-free stores in the international departures area.

Airline Lounges

Airlines maintain lounges (e.g., Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge, Plaza Premium Lounge) for eligible passengers, offering comfortable spaces and refreshments.

Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, keeping you connected before your flight.

Confirm Departure

Confirm your flight status and gate information the day before and on the day of your departure.

Air Travel Guide