Edmonton Airport Terminal

Edmonton International Airport (YEG) is Alberta’s largest air gateway and a benchmark for modern airport design, sustainability, and passenger comfort. Located about 27 km south of downtown Edmonton, YEG has evolved into a major hub for both domestic and international travel, serving nearly 8 million passengers annually.

Historical Overview

YEG opened in November 1960, initially using a hangar as a temporary terminal. The first purpose-built terminal—a striking steel and glass structure—opened in 1963, setting the tone for decades of growth and innovation. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the airport expanded to accommodate wide-body jets and growing passenger numbers. Major redevelopment projects in the late 1990s and 2000s, including a $282 million overhaul, increased capacity and modernized the terminal. The most recent expansions, including the Central Hall and Pre-Board Screening areas, have further enhanced efficiency and passenger experience.

Terminal Layout & Zones

The YEG terminal is designed for efficiency and ease of navigation, with a chevron-shaped layout that brings together the original North Terminal and the expanded South Terminal. The facility is spread across multiple levels:

Arrivals Level: Baggage claim, customs, ground transportation, rental cars, and access to parking.
Departures Level: Check-in counters, security screening, shops, restaurants, and access to all gates.
Mezzanine Level: Airline lounges, business services, and additional dining options.

Digital signage and information kiosks are located throughout the terminal for easy wayfinding.

Shopping, Dining & VIP Lounges

YEG offers a diverse mix of shops and restaurants, from local Alberta brands to international favorites. Travelers can browse duty-free, fashion, electronics, and travel essentials, or enjoy everything from gourmet coffee to sit-down dining.

Shops: Relay, Hudson, Discover Alberta, duty-free, electronics, and gift stores.
Restaurants: Local favorites like Belgian Beer Café, Bistro on the Go, and Tim Hortons, as well as international options.
VIP Lounges: The Plaza Premium Lounge and Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge offer complimentary food and beverages, Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and showers—ideal for business travelers or those seeking extra comfort.

Many restaurants and shops are open early and late to accommodate all flight schedules.

Facilities & Services

Wi-Fi: Free, unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
ATMs & Currency Exchange: Multiple ATMs and a currency exchange desk are available on both levels.
Luggage Storage: Secure baggage storage and lost & found services are located near the arrivals area.
Family Services: Nursing rooms, family washrooms, and children’s play areas are available.
Accessibility: The terminal is fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, accessible washrooms, and dedicated assistance for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM).
Security & Baggage: Security screening is efficient, with multiple lanes and modern technology. Baggage screening and customs for international arrivals are located on the arrivals level.
Lost & Found: Lost items can be reported or retrieved at the dedicated Lost & Found office near baggage claim.
Check-in & Boarding: Self-service kiosks, staffed counters, and efficient security lines make check-in and boarding smooth. Boarding gates are clearly marked and easy to reach.

For the fastest check-in, use the self-service kiosks and download your airline’s mobile app for digital boarding passes.

Popular Flights: Summary Table

Destination	Flight Duration	Airlines
Toronto (YYZ)	~4h 0m	Air Canada, WestJet
Vancouver (YVR)	~1h 30m	Air Canada, WestJet, Flair
Calgary (YYC)	~0h 50m	Air Canada, WestJet, Flair
Montreal (YUL)	~4h 15m	Air Canada
Winnipeg (YWG)	~2h 0m	WestJet, Air Canada
Las Vegas (LAS)	~3h 0m	WestJet, Flair
Phoenix (PHX)	~3h 15m	Air Canada, WestJet
Cancun (CUN)	~5h 30m	WestJet, Air Canada
London (LHR)	~8h 30m	WestJet
Seattle (SEA)	~1h 45m	Alaska Airlines

Travel Tips

Book parking online for the best rates and guaranteed space.
Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights, especially during peak periods.
Join YEG Rewards for discounts and exclusive offers at airport shops and restaurants.

YEG’s terminal combines modern amenities, sustainability (LEED® Gold certified), and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a standout Canadian airport for both leisure and business travelers.

LOUNGES