After five years of construction, Monday marks a huge day for the Calgary International Airport: it’s the official opening of the new two-million-square-foot international terminal, part of the $2.6-billion expansion.
READ MORE: #OurYYC On the Road – A first look at the Calgary airport’s new terminal
When it opens, it will double the size of the existing airport terminal.
If you plan to be one of the thousands of passengers travelling Monday at the new state-of-the-art facility, here are some things to know:
- The customs hall is about twice the size of the current space at YYC and there are six new highly automated screening machines at security, which should help travellers get through more quickly.
- The new terminal includes a first-of-its-kind in North America baggage system and a self-serve bag drop system that should speed up the check-in process.
- There are some parking changes for international travellers you can check out on the YYC web site.
- There are several new processes and expanded facilities to navigate, so the airport authority is suggesting you leave yourself some extra time for flights on Oct. 31.
- Because the place is so big, Monday also marks the launch of the airport’s new internal transit system. The YYC Link Shuttle is a ten-passenger electric vehicle that will speed you through the entire complex.
Don’t worry, there will be plenty of white hat volunteers to help you through the new processes.
The terminal will be accessible to the public starting at 3 a.m. Check-in starts at 4 a.m. with the first departure from the new building set for 6 a.m.
For a full list of opening day travel tips from airport staff, click here.
Watch below: Doug Vaessen got exclusive, early access on Oct. 6 and shows travellers what you can expect.