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Montreal Trudeau Airport YUL Airport Traveler Guide

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YUL Airport Insights & Guide

Key YUL Airport Topics:

Getting to Know YUL Airport

Welcome to our Montreal Trudeau Airport online guide. Serving as a gateway to the vibrant city of Montreal and the wider Quebec region, YUL is a bustling hub for both domestic and international travel. The airport boasts a unique feature in the form of a public art program, showcasing the work of renowned artists throughout its terminals. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first air journey, our guide will help you navigate this expansive airport with ease. For those seeking information about other airports, our essential guide to airports provides a wealth of knowledge about various airports around the globe.

WATCH VIDEO: Explore the departures terminal of Montreal-Trudeau International Airport and discover its amenities in this captivating walking tour:

Airport News

Montreal Trudeau Airport (YUL) has introduced several new initiatives to enhance traveler convenience and connectivity. A new shuttle service has been launched, providing direct transportation between YUL and Mont-Tremblant, making it easier for passengers to reach popular ski destinations. Additionally, Air Canada has commenced a nonstop service between Austin and Montreal, further expanding international travel options for passengers. (sources: Blogue Tremblant, AustinTexas.gov)

YUL Airport, also known as YUL, has five terminals: Aeroquay, Domestic Area, International Area, Main Terminal, and Transborder Area. The Main Terminal is the largest and busiest terminal, with over 20 gates and serving major airlines such as Air Canada, Delta, and United. The Transborder Area is used for flights to the United States, while the International Area handles flights to other countries. The Domestic Area is used for domestic flights within Canada, and the Aeroquay is used for cargo and general aviation.

To navigate the airport, follow the signs and directions to your designated terminal. You can also use the moving walkways and escalators to get around the airport quickly. If you have a connecting flight, make sure to check the flight information displays to find your departure gate and terminal.

YUL offers a variety of food and services throughout the terminals. Use our interactive airport map to locate food options, shops, restrooms, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

The airport has five terminals: Aeroquay, Domestic Area, International Area, Main Terminal, and Transborder Area. To get between terminals, passengers can use the free shuttle bus service that runs 24/7. The shuttle buses run every 10 minutes during peak hours and every 20 minutes during off-peak hours. The walk time between terminals can range from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the terminal.

Passengers can also use the train service that connects the Main Terminal to the Transborder Area. The train runs every 5 minutes and takes about 2 minutes to travel between the terminals. This is a convenient option for passengers who have connecting flights in the Transborder Area.

Tips from YUL Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Montreal Trudeau Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from YUL-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

"If you’re connecting between the International and Transborder Areas, use the train service. It's quick and runs every 5 minutes, so you won’t have to worry about missing your connection." — Jean-Marc B., Laval, QC, December 2023

"The signage at YUL is pretty straightforward, but if you get lost, don't hesitate to ask the airport staff for help. They're usually very friendly and helpful." — Sophie L., Longueuil, QC, February 2024

Getting To/From the City

"The 747 bus line is a convenient and affordable way to get to downtown Montreal. Just make sure to buy your ticket at the machine before you board." — Marc D., Brossard, QC, March 2024

"For a more comfortable ride to the city, consider using the airport shuttle services. They might be a bit pricier than the bus, but they offer direct routes to various hotels." — Nadia K., Dorval, QC, April 2024

Parking

"If you're parking long-term, EconoParc is your best bet. It's economical, and the shuttle service is reliable and frequent." — Alain P., Pointe-Claire, QC, May 2024

"For quick pick-ups, use the cell phone waiting area. It's free and close enough to the terminals to swoop in once your party is ready." — Isabelle R., Terrebonne, QC, June 2024

Inside the Airport

"Don’t miss out on the local flavors at YUL. Try some poutine at one of the eateries or grab a coffee at Café Vasco da Gama for a real taste of Montreal." — Luc T., Saint-Lambert, QC, July 2024

"Shopping at The Loop Duty Free is a must if you want to bring home some local products. They have a great selection of Quebecois specialties." — Amélie G., Beaconsfield, QC, August 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Arrive at least 3 hours early for international flights. Security lines can be unpredictable, and it’s always better to have some extra time to relax before your flight." — Pierre C., Repentigny, QC, September 2024

"Keep an eye on the flight information displays for any changes to your gate or departure time. They’re updated in real-time and can save you from unnecessary stress." — Chantal M., Vaudreuil-Dorion, QC, October 2024

iFly Tip: From check-in to departure, our airport guidance covers it all.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

Montreal Airport provides several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. If you are dropping off a passenger, you can use the curbside area located outside of the terminal buildings. However, please note that there are strict time limits for curbside parking, and vehicles cannot be left unattended. If you need to park your vehicle for an extended period of time, you will need to use the airport's parking facilities.

If you are picking up a passenger, you can use the cell-phone waiting areas located near each terminal building. These areas are free to use and allow you to wait in your vehicle until your passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up. Once your passenger is ready, you can proceed to the curbside area for pick-up.

Please note that there are specific designated areas for picking up and dropping off passengers at each terminal building. It is important to follow the signs and instructions provided to ensure a safe and efficient process for all passengers and drivers.

Parking Facilities & Options

YUL offers a variety of parking options to suit your needs. There are several parking lots and garages located within walking distance of the airport terminals. The parking facilities are divided into five areas: Aeroquay, Domestic Area, International Area, Main Terminal, and Transborder Area.

If you're picking up or dropping off passengers, the airport offers cell phone waiting areas where you can wait in your car until your party is ready to be picked up. These areas are conveniently located near the terminals and free of charge.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, and shuttle buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts. If you require assistance, please contact the airport in advance to make arrangements.

For those looking for an economical parking option, off-airport parking is available. Many off-airport parking facilities offer shuttle service to and from the airport terminals, and some even offer additional services such as car detailing and oil changes.

Get details about YUL Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

If you're flying into the airport, you have several transportation options to choose from to get to your final destination.

  • Car rental: Car rental facilities are available at the airport, with major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. You can find the car rental counters in the arrivals area of the terminal. Learn more about rental cars.
  • Taxis: If you prefer to take a taxi, you can find them outside the arrivals area of the terminal. The drop-off area for taxis is located on the departures level of the terminal. Fares are metered and vary depending on your destination.
  • Ride share services: Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are also available at Montreal Trudeau Airport. Pickup areas for these services are located outside the arrivals area of the terminal. However, there are some restrictions for these services such as the number of passengers and the amount of luggage allowed.
  • Airport shuttles: Airport shuttles are another option for transportation. They offer a convenient and affordable way to get to your final destination. Pickup areas for airport shuttles are located outside the arrivals area of the terminal. Fares vary depending on your destination and the shuttle service provider.
  • Public transportation: Public transportation options are also available at Montreal Airport. The STM bus system operates several routes that serve the airport. You can find the bus stop outside the arrivals area of the terminal. Fares are reasonable and depend on your destination.

iFly Tip: Get a pilot's perspective on your flight journey with our detailed flight guide.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're on a layover, an overnight sleepover, or just passing through, finding the right hotel near the airport can make all the difference. From luxury accommodations to budget-friendly options, we've got you covered. Discover pet-friendly hotels, those offering shuttle services, and even ones with a swimming pool for relaxation. Explore our comprehensive list of Montreal Dorval Airport Hotels to find the perfect accommodation for your needs. Each of these hotels ensures a pleasant stay, providing easy access to your flights and the city's attractions. Start planning your visit today!

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure at Montreal Airport, where you can find a variety of local and international cuisines. From comfort food to sushi, pasta to pub-style meals, there's something for everyone. Popular restaurants include Pork & Pickle, Six Pints, RYU, Hurley's Irish Pub, and L’Auberge Saint-Gabriel, among others. And if you're looking for some last-minute shopping, YUL has plenty of stores to choose from, including RELAY, iStore, and The Loop Duty Free.

For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, explore the facilities at this link. The locations of all food, shops, and services at Montreal Trudeau Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

YUL, also known as YUL, offers a variety of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable as possible.

For those needing to stay connected, free wifi is available throughout the airport.

If you have lost an item during your travels, the lost and found office is located in the main terminal.

Traveling with children? There are several children's play areas located throughout the airport to keep little ones entertained.

Special-needs services are available upon request, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms.

Need to do some banking? There are ATMs and currency exchange services located in the main terminal and international area.

In case of a medical emergency, there is a medical clinic located in the main terminal.

No matter which terminal you are in - Aeroquay, Domestic Area, International Area, Main Terminal, or Transborder Area - YUL Airport has you covered with a variety of passenger services to make your travel experience stress-free.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight, especially when departing from the airport in Canada. One way to do this is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Another helpful tool is to download your airline's mobile phone app. This app can alert you about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via text, email, or push notifications. It is also a convenient way to check in for your flight and access your boarding pass.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Montreal Trudeau Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

iFly Tip: Find out how to qualify for TSA PreCheck in our easy-to-follow guide.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Montreal Trudeau Airport (YUL) is located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
  • Terminals: The airport features five terminals: Aeroquay, Domestic Area, International Area, Main Terminal, and Transborder Area.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines serving the airport include Air Canada, WestJet, and Delta Air Lines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the YUL Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Montreal Trudeau handles approximately 55,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 500 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from YUL are Toronto, Paris, New York, Cancun, and Fort Lauderdale.
  • Hub Status: Montreal Trudeau serves as a hub for Air Canada and Air Transat, and is a focus city for WestJet.

Airport History

The airport, originally known as Montreal-Dorval International Airport, has a rich history dating back to the early 1940s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1941 - The airport opens as a military airfield for the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II.
  • 1949 - The airport opens to civilian air traffic and is renamed Montreal-Dorval International Airport.
  • 1960 - The airport undergoes a major expansion, including the construction of a new terminal building.
  • 1982 - The airport is renamed Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport in honor of the former Canadian Prime Minister.
  • 1997 - A new terminal building, Terminal 3, is opened to accommodate the growing number of passengers.
  • 2004 - The airport undergoes another expansion, including the construction of a new parking garage and additional gates.
  • 2016 - The airport completes a major renovation of its international terminal, including the addition of new shops and restaurants.

Today, Montreal Trudeau Airport is the third-busiest airport in Canada, serving over 20 million passengers annually. It is a hub for Air Canada and a focus city for WestJet.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Montreal Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: YUL
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 514-394-7377
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, 975 Romeo-Vachon Blvd N, Dorval, QC H4Y 1H1, Canada

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Montreal Trudeau Airport Q&A

The 747 bus line provides affordable and frequent service to downtown Montreal. Tickets must be purchased at a machine before boarding.
Use the train service, which runs every 5 minutes, to move quickly between the International and Transborder Areas.
Head to the designated pickup area outside the arrivals terminal for rideshare services.
EconoParc offers reliable shuttle service and is the most economical choice for long-term parking.
Use the cell phone waiting area near the terminals, where you can wait in your car for free until your passenger is ready.
The airport features a public art program showcasing works by renowned artists throughout its terminals.
Check the flight information displays for your departure gate and use the train service for quick access to the Transborder Area.
For a quick bite, try RYU for sushi. For shopping, The Loop Duty Free offers a great selection of local products.
Arrive at least 3 hours early to account for potentially unpredictable security lines and to have time to relax before your flight.
Yes, a shuttle service provides direct transportation between YUL and Mont-Tremblant, making it easier to reach ski destinations.