YHZ Airport Insights & Guide
Key YHZ Airport Topics:
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know YHZ Airport
Discover Halifax Airport, Atlantic Canada's welcoming gateway, known for its unique lobster-shaped weather vane atop the control tower. YHZ streamlines your journey with modern amenities and helpful staff. Our guide simplifies airport navigation, whether it's your first visit or you're a frequent flyer.
Need flight updates, parking, or dining options? Our guide covers everything to ensure a smooth transition from doorstep to departure gate, including terminal maps and tips. For broader airport insights, visit the Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly. Embark on your adventure with us!
iFly Tip: For practical parking solutions, visit our expert guide.
Navigating YHZ's Terminals
YHZ has one main terminal building with two levels and a total of 28 gates. The terminal is divided into two sections: domestic and international. The domestic section is located on the ground level and houses gates 1-14, while the international section is located on the upper level and houses gates 15-28.
Major airlines such as Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter Airlines use the domestic section of the terminal, while airlines such as Delta, United, and British Airways use the international section.
Inside the terminal, passengers can find a variety of food options, including fast food chains such as Tim Hortons and Subway, as well as sit-down restaurants like Swiss Chalet and East Side Mario's. There are also several shops and services available, including duty-free stores, bookstores, and a spa.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
YHZ Airport has a single terminal building that houses both domestic and international flights. The terminal is well-organized and easy to navigate, so travelers should not worry about getting lost.
There are no shuttle buses or trains required to get between the terminals as there is only one terminal building. However, if travelers need to move between domestic and international areas, they will need to pass through security again, so it is recommended to allow extra time for this process. The walk time between the farthest gates is approximately 10-15 minutes, so it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes.
Tips from YHZ Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Halifax Stanfield International Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from YHZ-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"When you're at YHZ, remember that the domestic gates are all on the ground level and the international ones are upstairs. It's pretty straightforward, but if you're unsure, the lobster weather vane is a great landmark to orient yourself." — Alex M., Dartmouth, NS, March 2024
"If you're connecting between domestic and international flights, give yourself at least 30 minutes to go through security again. It's usually not crowded, but better safe than sorry!" — Emily T., Bedford, NS, July 2024
Getting To/From the City
"For a budget-friendly ride to downtown Halifax, the MetroX bus is your best bet. Just make sure to have exact change for the fare." — Michael L., Sackville, NS, December 2023
"If you're taking a taxi, always ask for a flat rate to downtown Halifax. It can save you some cash during rush hour." — Priya K., Fall River, NS, February 2024
Parking
"For long-term parking, the Economy Lot is a great choice. It's cheaper than the Parkade and there's a shuttle that takes you right to the terminal." — Raj S., Enfield, NS, April 2024
"If you're just picking someone up, the cell phone waiting area is free for 30 minutes. It's super convenient and saves you from circling around." — Lisa J., Elmsdale, NS, June 2024
Inside the Airport
"For a quick caffeine fix, Tim Hortons is always reliable, but if you're looking for a sit-down meal, East Side Mario's has some great pasta dishes." — Daniel R., Halifax, NS, January 2024
"Don't miss the duty-free shop if you're flying international. They have a decent selection of local products that make great gifts." — Sarah P., Lower Sackville, NS, May 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Always aim to arrive at least two hours before your flight, especially during the holiday season. Security lines can get unexpectedly long." — John H., Cole Harbour, NS, August 2024
"Download your airline's app for real-time updates on your flight. It's a lifesaver if there are any gate changes or delays." — Maria C., Timberlea, NS, October 2024
iFly Tip: Ensure you have the right documents when requesting a gate pass by reading our gate pass information page.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
YHZ provides several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. If you are dropping off a passenger, you can use the curbside drop-off zone located outside the terminal building. However, please note that parking is not allowed in this area, and vehicles must not be left unattended. If you need to park your vehicle, you can use the short-term parking lot located near the terminal building.
If you are picking up a passenger, you can use the cell-phone waiting area located near the airport. This area is free to use and allows you to wait for your passenger until they are ready to be picked up. Once your passenger is ready, they can contact you via phone or text, and you can then proceed to the curbside pick-up zone to collect them.
It is important to note that curbside parking restrictions are strictly enforced at YHZ Airport. Vehicles that are parked in unauthorized areas or left unattended may be towed or fined. Therefore, it is recommended that you use the designated parking areas and waiting zones to avoid any inconvenience or penalties.
Parking Facilities & Options
The airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. The airport has several parking lots and garages located within walking distance of the terminal building. Short-term parking is available in the Parkade, while long-term parking is available in the Economy Lot. The Parkade is ideal for those who need to park for a few hours or a day, while the Economy Lot is perfect for those who need to park for an extended period.
If you are picking up someone from the airport, there are cell phone waiting areas available where you can wait for your party to arrive. These areas are located near the terminal building and are free to use for up to 30 minutes.
Halifax Airport also provides handicapped parking spaces in all of its parking lots and garages. These spaces are located close to the terminal building and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you need assistance getting from your car to the terminal building, the airport provides wheelchair service.
If you are looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near the airport. These parking lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport and are often cheaper than parking at the airport itself. However, be sure to check the parking lot's hours of operation and shuttle schedule before booking.
Get details about Halifax Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
YHZ offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers. Visitors can choose from car rentals, taxi services, shared ride services, airport shuttles, and public transportation.
- Car rental: Car rental facilities are located on the lower level of the airport terminal. Major providers include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Visitors can book a rental car in advance or at the rental counter upon arrival.
- Taxis: Taxi services are available outside of the arrivals area of the terminal. Drop-off areas are located near the departures area. Fares are based on a metered rate and vary depending on the destination.
- Shared ride services: Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, can be accessed from the designated pickup area outside of the arrivals area. Restrictions may apply, so be sure to check with the service provider before booking.
- Airport shuttles: Airport shuttles are available for travelers who need transportation to nearby hotels. The service operates 24/7 and pickup areas are located outside of the arrivals area. Fares vary depending on the destination.
- Public transportation: Public transportation options include the Halifax Transit bus system and the MetroX bus service. The Halifax Transit bus system operates from the airport to downtown Halifax and surrounding areas. The MetroX bus service provides transportation to other cities in Nova Scotia.
iFly Tip: For stress-free flights with toddlers, check out our comprehensive travel guide.
Airport Hotels
Are you seeking the perfect accommodation for your next trip? Look no further. We have a comprehensive guide to the best hotels and accommodations near the airport. Whether you prefer the convenience of an on-site hotel, the comfort of a nearby inn, or the privacy of a rental home, we have numerous options to suit your needs. Some hotels even offer complimentary shuttle services, free parking, and high-speed internet access. Discover the best options for your budget and preferences with our Halifax Airport Hotels guide.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to make your travel experience more enjoyable. If you're looking for a quick bite, Tim Hortons and Starbucks are conveniently located throughout the airport. For a sit-down meal, visit the popular restaurant Swiss Chalet, which offers a range of delicious chicken dishes. Another great option is the East Side Mario's, which serves Italian cuisine and has a cozy atmosphere.
For shopping, there are several stores to choose from. Hudson's Bay is a popular department store that offers a wide selection of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. If you're looking for something specific, visit the iStore, which sells electronics and Apple products. For last-minute travel essentials, visit Relay or WHSmith, which offer a variety of books, magazines, and snacks.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Halifax Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and newsstands, view the comprehensive list here.
Passenger Services
YHZ Airport is committed to providing passengers with a comfortable and stress-free travel experience. Here are some of the passenger services available:
Wifi Access: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport for passengers to stay connected while waiting for their flights.
Lost and Found: If you have lost an item at the airport, please contact the Lost and Found department located in the terminal building.
Children's Areas: The airport has a designated play area for children to enjoy while waiting for their flights.
Special-Needs Services: The airport offers a range of services for passengers with special needs, including wheelchair assistance, accessible washrooms, and designated parking spaces.
Banking: There are several ATMs and currency exchange services available at the airport for passengers' convenience.
Medical Help: In case of a medical emergency, the airport has a first aid station located in the terminal building. Passengers can also request assistance from airport staff if needed.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight at the Halifax Airport. Luckily, there are several ways to get flight status information.
One of the easiest ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time information on flight departures, arrivals, delays, and gate information. Simply find the display for your flight and check the status.
Another convenient way to stay informed is by downloading your airline's mobile phone app. Many airlines offer apps that provide push notifications for departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes. You can also receive updates via text or email by signing up for alerts through your airline's website.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at the airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) is located in Enfield, Nova Scotia, Canada.
- Passenger Traffic: The airport serves over 4 million passengers annually.
- Daily Passengers: On average, YHZ handles approximately 11,000 passengers per day.
- Terminals: The airport has a single terminal building, which includes various shops, restaurants, and services for travelers.
- Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter Airlines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the YHZ Airlines Served page.
- Daily Flights: There are approximately 200 daily flights departing from the airport.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from YHZ are Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary, and Vancouver.
- Hub Status: Halifax Stanfield International Airport is a hub for Air Canada, which operates numerous domestic and international flights from the airport.
Airport History
The airport, also known as Halifax Stanfield International Airport, is located in Enfield, Nova Scotia, Canada. It serves as the primary airport for Halifax and the surrounding areas.
Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1960s - Construction of the airport began.
- 1971 - The airport officially opened for commercial flights.
- 1995 - A new international terminal was opened, increasing the airport's capacity.
- 2000 - The airport was renamed to Halifax Stanfield International Airport in honor of Robert Stanfield, a former Premier of Nova Scotia.
- 2005 - A new cargo terminal was opened, allowing for increased cargo capacity.
- 2011 - The airport underwent a major expansion, including the addition of a new parking garage and a renovated domestic terminal.
- 2019 - The airport celebrated its 50th anniversary.
Today, Halifax Stanfield International Airport serves over 4 million passengers annually and is a hub for several major airlines, including Air Canada and WestJet.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Halifax Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: YHZ
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 902-873-4422
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Halifax Stanfield International Airport, 1 Bell Boulevard, Enfield, Nova Scotia, B2T 1K2, Canada
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Halifax Airport Q&A
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