Read this Ottawa International Airport Guide so you don’t get lost like many tourists do
Me and my friend were chilling at her house, eating food and catching up. Being old workmates, we chatted about our careers and whatnot.
She tells me that everything is going great—she just got promoted but is going to be stationed in another country. It was her first time traveling and she was feeling a bit anxious about it since she had never gone to the airport before.
This sparked an almost hour-long conversation about Ottawa International Airport.
I thought to myself: Why not put all of this in a guide for others to use? With this in mind, I got to making this Ottawa International Airport guide filled with its ins and outs!
Ottawa International Airport Overview
Ottawa/Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) is the primary airport that serves Ottawa, Canada’s capital city. It offers domestic, US transborder, and international flights, making it a quintessential gem for travelers from all walks of life.
Located 14 kilometers from downtown Ottawa, it has a single terminal with three levels (Arrivals, Departures, and Check-In).
This single terminal handles over 4 million passengers every year! It’s typically at its busiest from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Now that you know a little bit about where you’re going, let’s talk about actually getting there!
Where is Ottawa International Airport?
Ottawa International Airport can be found on Airport Parkway Private. It is 14 kilometers away from downtown Ottawa.
How to Get to Ottawa International Airport
By OC Transpo: Rapid Route 97 serves the airport 24/7 from Hurdman station and Rideau station overnight. Use OC Transpo Travel Planner for more detailed steps to get to the airport!
By Taxi/Ridesharing App: You can also take a taxi or use a ridesharing app such as Uber or Lyft. Simply input where you want to be picked up and set your drop off to Ottawa International Airport.
By Car: Should you decide to bring your car, make your way to Bronson Avenue. After that, make your way onto Airport Parkway. This should lead you straight to the airport. Use navigation apps such as Waze or Google Maps for more specific directions.
Parking at Ottawa International Airport
Ottawa International Airport has two parking options for those who prefer to bring their own vehicles. These are the Short-Term Parking at P1 and Long-Term Parking at P4.
If you’re not parking your car for the duration of your trip, there is a 30-minute grace period for people who have a valid accessible parking ticket or those assisting a passenger with a disability.
Ottawa International Airport Lounges
1. Air Canada Maple-Leaf Lounge
Media credit: insta.sai
Operating Hours: Daily from 4:15 AM to 8:30 PM
Location: Near Gate 18
The Air Canada Maple-Leaf Lounge is open to Air Canada passengers and those with memberships.
Here, you’ll find complimentary snacks and beverages you can indulge in while waiting for your flight. The lounge features comfortable seating, a television, and free WiFi, allowing you to watch your favorite shows or update your loved ones.
There’s also a business center and a news and information center for those who need to catch up on work.
The best part? You can even take a shower should you wish to freshen up before boarding the plane.
2. Aspire Lounge
Media credit: Priority Pass
Operating Hours: Weekdays from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM and Weekends from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Location: Near Gate 18
The Aspire Lounge is open to passengers with Priority Pass or DragonPass memberships.
The lounge provides complimentary snacks and beverages you can enjoy whilst you recharge from traversing the airport. It also has runway views and quiet zones, perfect as you sip your coffee and relax on seats fit for kings and queens!
Plus, with its own toilet facilities, you don’t need to venture far into the airport.
Ottawa International Airport Amenities
1. Animal Relief Area
Location: Near Gate 18 on Level 2
For those traveling with their furry buddies, the Animal Relief Area is a lifesaver for when your pooch or feline needs to go! This area is easily accessible before and after flights.
It’s equipped with grass and waste disposal stations to ensure a mess-free experience for you and your furry companion.
2. Baggage Carts
Location: Each level of the Parkade (P1), in the long-term/overnight lot (P4), between baggage carousels in Arrivals, at each terminal entrance (Departures curb)
Baggage carts are readily available throughout the airport for an easier time carrying your belongings. They’re designed to carry standard luggage sizes so you don’t have to worry about yours not fitting!
These are free of charge but you have to return them to designated areas to avoid fees.
3. Bicycle Racks
Location: Near Parkade (P1) on Level 1
The airport has interior and exterior bike racks located near the Parkade for easy and convenient access.
Remember to bring your own bike lock to secure your ride.
4. Breastfeeding Rooms
Location: Level 1, Level 2, near Gate 14, near Gate 18
Breastfeeding rooms are conveniently scattered along the airport, providing privacy for you and your little bundle of joy.
They come with the basic amenities, including a changing table, seating, and a sink. There are also electrical outlets should you need to charge your breast pumps or baby gadgets.
5. Cash Machines (ATMs)
Location: Level 1, Royal Bank, Level 2, and Level 3
Find yourself needing cash? No problem. ATMs are conveniently located almost everywhere in this airport!
These ATMs, operated by major banks, allow you to withdraw cash in various currencies, as well as conduct balance inquiries and account transfers.
6. Coat Check and Baggage Storage
Location: Level 1 – Arrivals
The Coat Check and Baggage Storage is where travelers can store their belongings for both short and extended periods.
They’re especially convenient for passengers on layovers, allowing them to explore the city without lugging their bags around!
The fee typically depends on the size of the item and the storage duration, so check the booth for their pricing.
7. Hydration Stations
Location: Level 1, Level 2, Gate 15, Gate 18, Gate 22
Hydration stations are conveniently scattered all around the airport so you can have access to drinkable water wherever you are.
Remember to bring your own refillable container—the stations don’t have disposable cups!
8. International Currency Exchange
Location: Level 1, Gate 15
The International Currency Exchange counters in the airport carry a range of currencies and offer traveler’s checks and prepaid cards.
They typically operate within airport hours, allowing you to access them when needed before or after your flight.
9. ReadySTATION® Cash Conversion Kiosk
Location: Level 3
If you’re like me and hate carrying around a wad of cash, this is right up your alley. This machine takes your cash and converts it into a prepaid Mastercard.
You can also exchange currency at these kiosks in lieu of going to a currency exchange booth.
The ReadySTATIONs are easy to use, featuring a touchscreen panel that guides you in navigating the machine.
10. SAVM VIP Assistance Service
Phone number:: 1-888-985-7286
Email: [email protected]
The SAVM VIP Assistance Service helps with almost every step of your airport journey.
May it be escorting your kids, fetching your loved ones from the curb, taking care of the disembarkation process, or anything under the sun, it’s got you covered. It can even assist you with check-in, security, and boarding.
Book the service at least 48 hours before your flight through the airline or the airport.
Where to Stay Near Ottawa International Airport
1. Fairfield Inn & Suites
Media credit: codisymone
Address: 135 Thad Johnson Private
Phone number:: 613-691-2161
Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yowfa-fairfield-inn-and-suites-ottawa-airport/overview/
Fairfield Inn & Suites is located near popular attractions such as the Canadian Museum of History and Parliament Hill.
From standard rooms to suites, this hotel has various options when it comes to rooms. Each room typically has amenities such as free Wi-Fi, TVs, mini-fridges, and microwaves.
Hotel amenities, on the other hand, include a complimentary breakfast, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a business center.
2. Hilton Garden Inn
Address: 361 Queen St
Phone number: 613-234-6363
Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/yowcdgi-hilton-garden-inn-ottawa-downtown/
Hilton Garden Inn has all the amenities you could need for your stay, from pools to gyms, and even a free shuttle service to and from the airport!
Their rooms come equipped with free Wi-Fi, TVs, microwaves, and mini-fridges, and you can also opt for connecting rooms.
Looking for a quick bite? The hotel has an on-site restaurant and a 24-hour market that will surely satisfy your cravings! Or head to downtown Ottawa to explore its restaurants and shopping attractions!
3. Days Inn
Media credit: daysinncanada
Address: 366 Hunt Club Rd
Phone number: 613-739-7555
Website: https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/days-inn/ottawa-ontario/days-inn-ottawa-airport/overview
Days Inn has a selection of rooms that feature Wi-Fi, flatscreens, and coffee makers. They boast big windows that allow you to bask in sweet sunlight during the mornings and enjoy a scenic view of the stars at night.
The hotel comes equipped with a gym and an indoor heated pool. After you finish working out or going for a swim, lots of complimentary snacks and drinks await at the hotel lounge!