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Winnipeg Airport YWG Airport Traveler Guide

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YWG Airport Insights & Guide

Key YWG Airport Topics:

Getting to Know YWG Airport

Start your Canadian journey at Winnipeg Airport, known for its unique "Under the Northern Lights" art installation, enhancing travelers' experience. This guide simplifies your YWG visit, covering everything from flight updates to dining. For a deeper dive into airport insights, check our Comprehensive Airport Guide at iFly.

iFly Tip: Learn how to handle lost or delayed baggage by visiting our baggage information page.

YWG Airport has two terminals: the Main Terminal and the Richardson Terminal. The Main Terminal has 17 gates, while the Richardson Terminal has 8 gates. Major airlines such as Air Canada, WestJet, and Delta use the Main Terminal, while Flair Airlines and Sunwing Airlines use the Richardson Terminal.

Both terminals offer a variety of services and amenities, including restaurants, cafes, shops, and duty-free stores. Passengers can also access free Wi-Fi throughout the airport and charging stations for their electronic devices.

When navigating the airport, passengers can use the moving walkways and elevators to easily move between levels and terminals. There are also helpful signs and information desks located throughout the airport to assist passengers with any questions or concerns they may have.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

The airport has one terminal building that houses all of the airport's facilities and services. As a result, travelers do not need to worry about getting between terminals as there is only one. The terminal is easily accessible by foot and there are no shuttle buses or trains required to move between gates or services. The airport is relatively small, so walking times are minimal, and travelers can expect to get from one end of the terminal to the other in under 10 minutes.

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from YWG-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

"YWG is quite straightforward with its single terminal layout. However, if you’re flying internationally, make sure to head to the far end of the terminal for customs and immigration. It’s a bit of a walk, but the signage is clear." — John D., Winnipeg, MB, August 2023

"For those with connecting flights, the terminal is compact, making layovers less stressful. Just follow the signs, and you’ll be at your gate in no time." — Emily R., Selkirk, MB, September 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The airport is about 8 kilometers from downtown Winnipeg. I recommend using the Winnipeg Transit bus service for an affordable option. Route 15 gets you to the city center in about 30 minutes." — Michael K., Winnipeg, MB, October 2023

"If you’re in a rush, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available and can get you downtown in around 20 minutes, depending on traffic." — Lisa M., Steinbach, MB, November 2023

Parking

"For long-term parking, the Economy Lot is your best bet. It’s a bit farther from the terminal, but there’s a free shuttle that runs every 15 minutes." — David P., Winnipeg, MB, December 2023

"If you’re just picking someone up, use the Cell Phone Waiting Area. It’s free and just a short drive from the terminal. Once your party is ready, you can head to the curbside pickup area." — Karen T., Oak Bluff, MB, January 2024

Inside the Airport

"Don’t miss the Prairie Bistro if you’re looking for a good meal. They have a great selection of local dishes, and it’s a nice way to get a taste of Manitoba before you leave." — Steven L., Winnipeg, MB, February 2024

"If you need last-minute souvenirs, the airport has some excellent shops featuring local products. Check out the Manitoba Made store for unique gifts." — Anna S., Stonewall, MB, March 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Security lines can get long during peak hours, so I always aim to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international ones. It’s better to be safe than sorry." — Robert J., Winnipeg, MB, April 2024

"Keep an eye on the flight information displays. They’re updated frequently and can help you stay informed about any potential delays or gate changes." — Maria C., Niverville, MB, May 2024

iFly Tip: Make your security screening hassle-free by learning about common errors.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At YWG Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the designated curbside areas outside of the terminal buildings. However, it is important to note that curbside parking is strictly prohibited and vehicles must not be left unattended. Drivers are encouraged to use the cell-phone waiting areas located near the airport to wait for their arriving passengers.

The cell-phone waiting areas are free of charge and provide a convenient location for drivers to wait until their passengers have arrived and collected their baggage. Once the passengers are ready, the driver can proceed to the designated curbside area for pick-up. It is important to follow all posted signs and instructions from airport personnel to ensure a smooth and safe pick-up and drop-off experience for all passengers and drivers.

Parking Facilities & Options

The airport offers a range of parking facilities and options to suit the needs of all travelers. There are several parking lots and garages located within walking distance of the terminal building, making it easy to park and access your flight.

If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, there are cell phone waiting areas available where you can park for free for up to 30 minutes. These areas are conveniently located near the terminal building, so you can easily meet your passenger when they arrive.

For those with disabilities, there are designated accessible parking spaces located in all parking areas. These spaces are located close to the terminal building and are clearly marked for easy identification.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These off-site parking lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it easy to get to your terminal without the hassle of finding a parking spot.

Transportation Options

Winnipeg Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers:

  • Car Rentals: Car rental facilities are available at Winnipeg Airport with major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. These providers have their rental counters located in the terminal building, making it convenient for travelers to rent a car upon arrival. It is advisable to book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times.
  • Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with drop-off areas located outside the terminal building. The fare for a taxi ride from the airport to downtown Winnipeg is approximately $20-$25 CAD. It is important to note that taxi fares may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. Taxis are a quick and reliable option for reaching your destination.
  • Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are available for pickup at designated areas outside the terminal building. However, there are restrictions on where these services can drop off passengers. It is recommended to check with the driver before booking a ride to ensure your drop-off location is permitted.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are available for travelers who prefer a more cost-effective option. These shuttles offer door-to-door service and can be booked in advance or upon arrival. The pickup area for airport shuttles is located outside the terminal building, and fares vary depending on the destination. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy periods.
  • Public Transportation: Winnipeg Transit offers bus service from the airport to downtown Winnipeg. The bus stop is located outside the terminal building, and the fare is approximately $3 CAD. It is important to note that bus service may not be as frequent during off-peak hours. This is a budget-friendly option for those looking to travel to the city center.

iFly Tip: Check out our top tips for ensuring a smooth trip with your toddler by reading our toddler travel tips.

Airport Hotels

Are you seeking a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport? Our guide provides you with an array of hotel options that offer a range of amenities to suit every traveler's needs, from state-of-the-art fitness centers to on-site dining options. Whether you're looking for a luxurious stay just steps away from the airport or a budget-friendly option a short shuttle ride away, you'll find a hotel that fits your needs. Some hotels even offer unique features like indoor pools with water slides, making your stay more enjoyable. For business travelers, several hotels provide complimentary 24-hour business centers to ensure you stay productive during your trip. Explore the options below to find the perfect hotel for your next trip. To view all options, including rates, on a map, click here: YWG Hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Winnipeg Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers. For a quick bite, Tim Hortons and Starbucks are conveniently located in the main terminal. For a sit-down meal, Prairie Bistro offers a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and is located in the departures area. For those looking for a drink, Jets Bar and Lounge is a popular spot to grab a beer and catch a game.

When it comes to shopping, Hudson's Bay Company is a great place to pick up Canadian souvenirs and gifts. For travelers in need of some last-minute travel essentials, Relay and Relay Convenience have a variety of items such as snacks, magazines, and toiletries. And for those looking to relax before their flight, there is a Plaza Premium Lounge located in the departures area.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Winnipeg Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG) offers complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found services are available at the information desk in the main terminal building for your convenience.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, YWG Airport features a dedicated children's play area located near Gate 8 in the departures area.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible washrooms, and special seating areas for passengers with special needs. Assistance can be requested at the information desk in the main terminal building.
  • ATM: ATMs are available throughout the terminal building, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • Medical Clinic: In case of a medical emergency, a medical clinic is located on the second floor of the main terminal building. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
  • Airport Lounges: Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport features the Plaza Premium Lounge, accessible to all passengers for a fee or through membership programs. The lounge offers amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and a comfortable seating area to relax before your flight. Additionally, the lounge provides a quiet space with workstations and a full bar.

Flight Status Info

As a traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight departure. Fortunately, there are several ways to check the flight status at Winnipeg Airport.

One of the easiest ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time information on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Passengers can also be alerted about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own mobile apps that provide push notifications, text messages, and emails with up-to-date information on flight status.

In addition to airline apps, passengers can also sign up for third-party flight tracking services like FlightAware or FlightStats. These services provide real-time updates on flight status and can send alerts via email or text message.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Winnipeg 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: James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG) is located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
  • Terminals: The airport features two terminals: Terminal 1 (main terminal) and Terminal 2 (used for charter flights and seasonal services).
  • Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Air Canada, WestJet, and Calm Air International. For a list of all airlines, check out the YWG Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Winnipeg Airport handles approximately 12,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 100 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from YWG are Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, Edmonton, and Ottawa.
  • Hub Status: Winnipeg Airport serves as a hub for Air Canada, WestJet, Flair Airlines, and Calm Air International.

Airport History

The airport, also known as James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1928 - The airport was officially opened as Stevenson Aerodrome, named after the landowner who donated the land for the airport.
  • 1930 - The first scheduled passenger service began with Trans-Canada Air Lines (now Air Canada) flying between Winnipeg and Vancouver.
  • 1940s - During World War II, the airport was used as a military training base for the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan.
  • 1960s - The airport underwent major renovations and expansions, including the construction of a new terminal building and runway.
  • 1997 - The airport was renamed James Armstrong Richardson International Airport in honor of a prominent local businessman and aviation pioneer.
  • 2011 - A new state-of-the-art terminal building was opened, featuring modern amenities and improved passenger flow.
  • 2019 - The airport welcomed over 4 million passengers, making it one of the busiest airports in Canada.

Today, Winnipeg Airport continues to serve as an important transportation hub for the region, connecting travelers to destinations across Canada and around the world.

Airport Contact Information

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

  • IATA Code: YWG
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 204-987-9402
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Winnipeg Airports Authority Inc., 2000 Wellington Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3H 1C2, Canada

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

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Winnipeg Airport Q&A

The airport has two terminals: the Main Terminal with 17 gates and the Richardson Terminal with 8 gates.
Major airlines such as Air Canada, WestJet, and Delta use the Main Terminal.
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
Passengers can be picked up or dropped off at designated curbside areas outside the terminal buildings. Curbside parking is prohibited, so use the cell-phone waiting areas to wait for arriving passengers.
The airport offers several parking lots and garages within walking distance of the terminal. There are also cell phone waiting areas, accessible parking spaces, and off-airport parking with shuttle services.
Ground transportation options include car rentals, taxis, ride-share services like Uber and Lyft, airport shuttles, and public transportation via Winnipeg Transit.
Yes, there are several hotels near the airport offering various amenities, including fitness centers, on-site dining, and shuttle services.
Dining options include Tim Hortons, Starbucks, Prairie Bistro, and Jets Bar and Lounge.
You can check flight status using in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, third-party flight tracking services, or by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com.
The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible washrooms, special seating areas, and assistance at the information desk in the main terminal building.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport