While the weather outside is hardly frightful, the Ottawa Airport Authority hopes your holiday travel is delightful.  Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you finalize travel plans:

• Download the free mobile app, where you will find all the airport information you will need: flight status updates; parking information; push notifications for travel/airport issues; and so much more!
• Book your parking in advance and save! www.yow.ca/parking.
• Make sure you have all the necessary identification and documentation with you.
• Plan ahead – know your airline’s baggage weight limits and other restrictions and take only what you need as aircraft can only handle so much cargo.
• Plan to check your heavy coats and boots at Pars 2000 (level 1) if you’re travelling somewhere warm.
• Familiarize yourself with what you can and can’t take through pre-board screening in your carry-on luggage. Visit www.catsa.gc.ca for their holiday travel tips.
• Give yourself extra time – the terminal will be busy and line-ups may be longer.
• If you plan to take gifts in your carry-on, please don’t wrap them; they may need to be inspected which could ruin your wrapping efforts.
• Enjoy the airport’s free Wi-Fi service.
• If you’re looking for a last minute gift, try the airport retailers such as Junogems, Metalsmiths Sterling, Boutique iStore, The Scoreboard, Hudson’s Bay Company, Discover Ottawa or Best Buy Express.
• Enjoy a meal or a beverage in one of the airport restaurants such as Rideau Bar and Grill, Byward Taps, D’Arcy McGee’s, The Tulip Bar & and Wine Lounge, Senate Chambers, and The Local Café and Bar. There are also lots of coffee/snack choices at The Good Earth Coffeehouse, Starbucks, Tim Hortons, PZA and Harvey’s.
• Bring something to keep you and your family busy – books and games will help pass the time. If you need a good book or magazine, visit the Great Canadian Book Co., Relay or Bytown Marché.
• Enjoy the festive decorations and the musical entertainment in the terminal provided by the Dicken’s Carolers and the Celebration Brass Quintet.
• Perhaps most important, pack your patience! Your trip will be more enjoyable and less stressful.

On behalf of the entire Airport Authority team, have a safe and happy holiday. Bon voyage!

About the Ottawa International Airport Authority

OMCIAA manages, operates and develops airport facilities and lands in support of the economic growth of the National Capital Region, generating more than $2.2 billion annually in total economic activity in Ottawa and Gatineau.