YOWUpdated September 24, 2026

Ottawa airport

Ottawa · Canada

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Ottawa airport (YOW)
Illustrative image
YOW · Overview
Weather now
1 °C
Passengers 2025
4.9 million
From the city
15 km

About the airport

Ottawa airport (YOW)
Illustrative image

Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW), opened on August 20, 1938, is the main air terminal serving Canada’s capital and one of the busiest airports in the province of Ontario. It is frequently recognized for its high standards of customer service and efficiency. It operates an extensive network of domestic flights and direct international connections to key destinations such as London, Paris, New York, Chicago, Washington, and several tourist destinations in Florida, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Official Website: yow.ca

Telephone: +1 613 248 2000

Social media:

Terminals

The airport features a modern passenger terminal, open 24 hours a day, integrating domestic, international, and transborder (to the United States) flight operations. It is divided into three levels (Level 1 for arrivals, Level 2 for security checkpoints and waiting areas, and Level 3 for check-in and departures).

Annual traffic (2025): 4.9 million passengers.

Information Desks

The main information desk is located on Level 3 within the check-in area. Additionally, throughout the terminal, passengers can receive assistance from volunteers participating in the "Infoguide" program, identifiable by their distinctive uniforms.

Location

The airport is located 15 km (9.2 miles) south of downtown Ottawa.

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Airlines and terminals All airline check-in counters and baggage drop facilities are located on Level 3 (Departures) of the terminal. After clearing security on Level 2, flights are separated… Full guide → Getting to and from YOW The ground transportation office is located on Level 1 of the multi-level parking garage (Parkade P1), in the car rental corridor. Line 4 (Airport Link) directly… Full guide → Car rental The offices of the main car rental companies are located on Level 1 of the multi-level parking garage (Parkade P1), situated directly across from the passenger… Full guide → Services and VIP lounges Ottawa Airport provides a comprehensive selection of commercial amenities and traveler assistance services across the terminal. Wi-Fi: Complimentary high-speed wireless internet access across all public and… Full guide → Hotels and overnight stay The airport features an excellent range of accommodations, including an option directly connected to the terminal and several nearby hotels that facilitate passenger transit through dedicated… Full guide → Frequently asked questions The fastest option is to use the O-Train (Line 4), which connects the terminal with South Keys station in 8 minutes, allowing transfers to Line 2… Full guide →

Parking

The airport offers several parking alternatives for short- and long-term stays, with covered and outdoor options located just a few minutes from the passenger terminal. All facilities operate 24 hours a day and feature automated payment systems.

Parkade (P1)

This is a multi-level parking structure located directly across from the terminal (about a 2-minute walk away). It is the ideal option for short- and medium-term stays, offering weather protection and 30 minutes of free parking. Electric vehicle charging stations are available on Levels 2, 3, and 4.

Within this structure, on Level 3, is the BizPark section, a premium area designed for frequent travelers that offers guaranteed parking spaces near the terminal entrances.

Long Term / Overheight (P4)

This outdoor lot is intended for long-term stays and is the designated area for oversized vehicles that cannot enter the Parkade. It is located approximately a 7-minute walk from the main building.

Cell Phone Lot

Located on Air Cargo Private, this free waiting area allows drivers to wait for arriving passengers for up to 45 minutes. Drivers must remain inside their vehicles at all times. Once the passenger has collected their luggage and is waiting at the arrivals curb, the driver may proceed to the pick-up area.

Payment Methods

Payment can be made at the automated machines located in the arrivals area (north and south ends), on Levels 1 and 3 of the Parkade (P1), or at the exit of the P4 lot. It is also possible to pay directly at the exit gates using credit cards or contactless payment systems.

Rates: To check updated prices and make advance reservations, you can visit the official parking website.

Special assistance

Ottawa Airport is designed to ensure universal accessibility, offering a wide range of services and facilities for passengers with reduced mobility or sensory and cognitive disabilities. To ensure optimal assistance, it is recommended to contact your airline at least 48 hours before your flight.

Facilities and Services

The terminal features clearly marked elevators, access ramps, accessible universal washrooms, and TTY telephones for passengers with hearing impairments. On Level 3, near the security area, there is an adult changing room equipped with an adjustable-height table and ceiling lift.

For people with visual impairments or low vision, the airport offers free access to the Aira app, which provides visual interpretation through specialized agents to assist with terminal navigation.

Invisible Disabilities

The airport participates in the international Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. Passengers traveling with non-visible disabilities (such as autism, hearing loss, or anxiety disorders) may request a sunflower lanyard or wristband at the following locations:

  • PARS 2000: Level 1, next to baggage carousel number 5.
  • Parking office: Parkade, Level 1, south end.

This identifier allows airport staff to discreetly recognize that the traveler may require additional support or extra time during airport procedures.

Service Animals

There are designated relief areas for service animals in three locations:

  • Before security: Across the street from the terminal (Level 1), along the Parkade parking garage (P1).
  • After security: Near Gate 18, in the international departures area.
  • After security: Next to the bottom of the escalators in the U.S. boarding area.

Transportation and Parking

The Para Transpo service provides specialized door-to-door transportation for people with reduced mobility who cannot use the conventional public transportation system. It is recommended to book the service in advance.

In the multi-level parking garage (Parkade P1), accessible parking spaces are available near the elevator cores on all levels. Vehicles displaying a valid accessible parking permit may use these preferred parking locations.

German Giudici

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Creator of the Aeropuertos del Mundo website network since 2007.