Montreal

✈️

Airports

Montreal is serviced by major airports, connecting it to domestic and international destinations.

Sections

1. Main Airport in Montreal: Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL)

Overview

  • Full Name: Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport
  • IATA Code: YUL
  • Location: Located in Dorval, approximately 20 km (12 miles) west of downtown Montreal.
  • Type: International airport serving domestic, transborder (U.S.), and international flights.
  • Website: www.admtl.com

Facilities

Montréal-Trudeau is a modern airport with a wide range of facilities:

  • Terminals: A single terminal divided into three sections: Domestic, International, and Transborder (U.S. preclearance).
  • Wi-Fi: Free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
  • Dining and Shopping: Numerous restaurants, cafes, and duty-free shops offering local and international products.
  • Lounges: VIP lounges such as Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge, National Bank Lounge, and others.
  • Currency Exchange and ATMs: Available in multiple locations.
  • Family Services: Nursing rooms, play areas, and family-friendly washrooms.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible with elevators, ramps, and assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility.
  • Other Services: Luggage storage, car rental desks, pet relief areas, and a prayer room.

2. Transportation Options to and from Montréal-Trudeau International Airport

By Public Transit

  1. 747 Express Bus

    • Route: Direct service between the airport and downtown Montreal (terminating at Gare d’autocars de Montréal, near Berri-UQAM metro station).
    • Frequency: Operates 24/7.
    • Travel Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
    • Cost: CAD 11 for a 24-hour unlimited public transit pass (includes metro and bus access).
    • Tickets: Purchase at vending machines in the airport or pay onboard (exact cash required).

  2. Commuter Train (Exo)

    • Route: The Vaudreuil-Hudson commuter train line stops at Dorval Station, which is connected to the airport by a free shuttle bus.
    • Cost: CAD 4-6 (depending on your destination).
    • Travel Time: 20-30 minutes to downtown Montreal.

By Taxi

  • Availability: Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals area.
  • Flat Rate: CAD 41 to downtown Montreal.
  • Travel Time: 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
  • Payment: Credit cards and cash are accepted.

By Rideshare

  • Services: Uber and Lyft operate at the airport.
  • Pickup Location: Designated rideshare pickup zones.
  • Cost: Similar to taxi fares, but may vary based on demand.

By Car

  1. Car Rentals: Major car rental companies (e.g., Avis, Hertz, Enterprise) have desks at the airport.
  2. Parking: Short-term and long-term parking options are available, with rates starting at CAD 6/hour or CAD 23/day.

By Private Shuttle

  • Many hotels in Montreal offer complimentary or paid shuttle services to and from the airport. Check with your accommodation in advance.

3. Airport Procedures

Arrivals

  1. Customs and Immigration:
    • International passengers must go through customs and immigration upon arrival.
    • U.S.-bound passengers pre-clear U.S. customs at the airport before departure.
    • Use the ArriveCAN app to submit travel and health information in advance (if required).
  2. Baggage Claim:
    • Follow signs to the baggage claim area after clearing customs.
    • Luggage carts are available for free.
  3. Transportation:
    • Exit through the arrivals hall to access taxis, buses, and other transportation options.

Departures

  1. Check-In:
    • Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
    • Self-service kiosks and traditional check-in counters are available.
  2. Security Screening:
    • Follow Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) guidelines for liquids, electronics, and prohibited items.
  3. Boarding:
    • Gates are clearly marked, and announcements are made in both English and French.

4. Other Airports Near Montreal

Montréal-Saint-Hubert Airport (YHU)

  • Location: Longueuil, about 16 km (10 miles) southeast of downtown Montreal.
  • Type: Regional airport primarily serving private and charter flights.
  • Facilities: Limited compared to YUL, with basic amenities.
  • Transportation: Accessible by car or taxi; public transit options are limited.

Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG)

  • Location: Plattsburgh, New York, USA, about 100 km (62 miles) south of Montreal.
  • Type: A small airport often marketed as “Montreal’s U.S. airport” for budget flights to U.S. destinations.
  • Transportation: Requires crossing the U.S.-Canada border; best accessed by car.

5. Nearby Attractions Worth Visiting

If you have time before or after your flight, consider exploring these attractions near Montréal-Trudeau International Airport:

  1. Lachine Canal National Historic Site (10 km from the airport)

    • A scenic waterway with walking and cycling paths, boat rentals, and picnic areas.

  2. Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal (15 km from the airport)

    • A stunning basilica and one of Montreal’s most iconic landmarks.

  3. Downtown Montreal (20 km from the airport)

    • Explore Old Montreal, the Notre-Dame Basilica, and the bustling streets of the city center.

  4. Jean-Talon Market (25 km from the airport)

    • A vibrant public market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and cultural experiences.

6. Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Language: Montreal is bilingual, with French as the primary language. Most airport staff and public transit operators speak English as well.
  • Currency: The local currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Weather: Winters can be harsh, so dress warmly if traveling between November and March.
  • Cultural Etiquette: Montrealers are friendly and polite. A simple “Bonjour” (hello) goes a long way.

This guide should help you navigate Montreal’s airports and make your travel experience smooth and enjoyable. Let me know if you need further assistance!