Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW)

Ottawa, ON, Canada YOW
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Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW)

Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) delivers a smooth and welcoming travel experience, blending efficiency with the charm of Canada’s capital. Major airlines include Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter Airlines, with self-service kiosks and staffed counters ensuring a quick check-in process. Boarding is streamlined, with priority lanes for business class and frequent flyers. Security at YOW is known for its efficiency, featuring Nexus and Trusted Traveler lanes. U.S.-bound passengers benefit from Preclearance, allowing them to clear customs before departure. The terminal is compact and easy to navigate, with clear bilingual signage in English and French. Dining options include Rideau Bar & Grill for Canadian-inspired fare, Tim Hortons for coffee and baked goods, and Tulip Café & Bakery for quick snacks. Shopping features duty-free options and locally inspired souvenirs. The Aspire Salon Lounge (Gate 18) offers a relaxing retreat with complimentary refreshments. Taxis, Uber, and OC Transpo’s Route 97 provide easy access to downtown Ottawa, just 15 minutes away. With friendly staff, reliable baggage handling, and efficient winter operations, YOW offers a stress-free journey through Canada’s capital.
Country Canada
City
IATA code YOW
Time Zone America/Toronto
Type
Passenger Volume
Latitude 45.420057
Longitude -75.70034
Elevation Ft
Ottawa International Airport
Ottawa is famous for Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, world-class museums, and vibrant winter festivals. The city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Food
Food
Rideau Bar & Grill (near Gate 18) serves Canadian-inspired dishes, making it a great spot for a sit-down meal before takeoff. For a quick caffeine fix or a classic Canadian treat, Tim Hortons (Pre-Security and near Gate 20) provides fresh coffee, donuts, and baked goods. Tulip Café & Bakery (near Gate 14) is ideal for a light snack or pastry on the go. Enjoy a BeaverTail pastry at ByWard Market Café (Departures, Near Gate 18) for sweet treats before take-off.
Shopping
Shopping
For a taste of Canada, grab locally made maple syrup or specialty treats at The Locks Gift Boutique. Hockey fans can find Ottawa Senators merchandise at Relay, while those looking for unique souvenirs can browse handmade Indigenous art and crafts. Bridgehead Coffee, a beloved Ottawa brand, offers locally roasted coffee, perfect for bringing a piece of the city home. Duty-free shopping is available for international travelers, featuring premium Canadian whisky, chocolates, and fragrances.
Transportation
Transportation
The O-Train Line 4 (expected by 2026) will connect the airport to downtown. Until then, OC Transpo Bus 97 reaches Rideau Centre in 30 minutes for CAD 3.75 ($2.80). A taxi to Parliament Hill costs about CAD 35 ($26), while Uber and Lyft operate widely. On-site car rentals from major providers like Avis, Enterprise, and Budget offer flexible travel options. YOW also features a range of parking choices, including short-term, long-term, and Park & Fly services for extended stays.
Experiences
Experiences
Visit the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum Display, showcasing Ottawa’s rich aviation history. For longer layovers, take a short ride to Hog’s Back Falls for a scenic walk.

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