Navigating Montreal Airport: Expect Delays and Plan Ahead for Construction
Travelers passing through Montreal-trudeau Airport (YUL) should brace themselves for potential delays due to extensive construction projects aimed at improving airport accessibility and the overall user experience. With passenger traffic reaching 22.5 million last year and continuing to rise, Aéroport de Montréal (ADM) is undertaking significant infrastructure upgrades that will impact traffic flow for the coming months and years.
The airport’s infrastructure, originally not designed for such high volumes of traffic, is struggling to keep up with demand. Overcrowded roadways, insufficient parking, and frequent congestion are prompting ADM to implement a series of major investment projects. These projects include reconfiguring road access, constructing new drop-off zones, demolishing and rebuilding the main parking lot, adding parking spaces, expanding the baggage claim area, building a rainwater retention basin, and integrating the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) [1].
Mitigation Measures in Place
To alleviate some of the congestion, ADM is implementing mitigation measures starting in the summer of 2025. These include closures on certain access ramps and the demolition of the main parking lot.to assist travelers during this period,two choice “Express” drop-off zones have been established,served by a shuttle service operating on a reserved lane to the terminal.
Did You Know? The first 40 minutes are now free in most parking lots to discourage drivers from circling the terminal while waiting.
The West EXPRESS TIGCADER is located in the P4 parking lot, while the Express drop-off area is near Highway 520 and Côte-de-Liesse. ADM officials urge travelers to utilize these zones to avoid congestion. Additionally,three Cellparc waiting parking lots are available,along with a virtual waiting area for taxis and Uber services.
Key Projects and Timelines
| project | Description | Expected Completion |
|---|---|---|
| Road Access Reconfiguration | Changes to road layouts to improve traffic flow. | Ongoing |
| New Drop-off Zones | Construction of dedicated areas for passenger drop-off. | Ongoing |
| Parking Lot Demolition & Reconstruction | Demolishing the main parking lot to build a larger,more efficient facility. | ongoing |
| REM integration | Connecting the airport directly to downtown Montreal via the REM. | 2027 |
Prepare for Potential Parking Shortages
The demolition of the main parking lot will likely cause parking shortages, especially during peak travel periods like holidays. ADM encourages travelers to reserve parking in advance or use public transportation whenever possible. The REM, scheduled to arrive at the airport in 2027, will provide a direct link to downtown Montreal, offering a significant public transportation option.
Pro Tip: Arrive at the airport three hours before your flight, regardless of your destination, to allow ample time for potential delays.
To mitigate traffic caused by drivers circling the terminal, ADM is emphasizing the use of express drop-off zones and parking lots. According to Jérôme Conraud, Deputy Vice-President of Governance and Airport Planning for ADM, 25% of motorists drive around the network more than once, contributing to congestion.
What strategies do you use to navigate airport construction and avoid delays? How vital is public transportation to your airport travel plans?
Evergreen Insights: Montreal Airport’s Growth and Challenges
Montreal-Trudeau International airport (YUL) has experienced significant growth in passenger traffic over the past decade, reflecting Montreal’s increasing importance as a global hub. This growth, though, has strained the airport’s existing infrastructure, leading to congestion and delays. The current construction projects represent a long-term investment in improving the airport’s capacity and efficiency to meet future demand. The integration of the REM is a crucial step in providing sustainable transportation options and reducing reliance on private vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Montreal Airport Construction
- Q: How early should I arrive at Montreal Airport during construction?
- A: Arrive at least three hours before your scheduled flight departure.
- Q: Where are the “Express” drop-off zones located?
- A: The West EXPRESS TIGCADER is in the P4 parking lot, and the Express drop-off area is near highway 520 and Côte-de-liesse.
- Q: what is Cellparc?
- A: Cellparc refers to the waiting parking lots available for those picking up passengers.
