March Break season is upon us, and the Ottawa International Airport will see a significant increase in passenger volumes between March 1 and 19, which represents the second-busiest travel time of the year. To prepare for your family trip to the sun or the ski hill, the Ottawa International Airport Authority has the following tips for travellers:

• Check your flight status directly with your airline, at www.yow.ca or by using the Airport’s mobile app (available for iOS and Android for free);
• Plan extra travel time to the Airport in the event of adverse weather;
• For added convenience, book your parking online before you travel: www.yow.ca/parking;
• Ensure you have all proper documentation;
• Use the Airport’s coat check service at Pars2000 in Arrivals on level 1;
• Pack your patience – flights are full so more people will be checking in and going through security screening;
• Keep your kids busy while you wait for your flight.

Speaking of keeping your kids busy, the Authority recently collaborated with local artist Jennifer Nicol to create a new Airport activity book that chronicles a class trip to Toronto. As Professor Uplands explains the airport process, he also introduces the students to many of the Airport’s iconic features and their historical significance, including the water feature, birchbark canoe, and Inukshuk. As kids colour their way through the Airport (yes, crayons are included!), they will learn about processes such as check-in and baggage, the control tower and parts of an aircraft. Visit the Info Kiosk on either level 1 or 3 to receive a free activity book to keep kids busy as they wait for their flight.

For more airport/aviation-related links for kids, visit www.yow.ca/en/kids-zone for quizzes, videos, reading suggestions to prepare kids for their first flight and information concerning family restrooms and play areas. 

Quotes:

“Each page includes an activity that is not only visually beautiful but also an innovative way to tell our Airport story as we share slivers of Canadian history,” said Mark Laroche, President and CEO of the Ottawa International Airport Authority. “Who knows - it may even spark the love of aviation for a future pilot.”

“Having the opportunity to illustrate this activity book has truly opened my eyes to the wealth of Canadian history and architecture the Ottawa International Airport has to offer,” said artist Jennifer Nicol. “It was an honour to have the opportunity to encapsulate that history through my love of art in this activity book for children to enjoy for years to come."

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.

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For more information:

Krista Kealey
Vice-President, Communications and Public Affairs
613-248-2050
[email protected]