Ruth Haines
Calgary International Airport, also known as YYC, is undergoing a major overhaul of its security operations, with construction underway to consolidate all domestic screening into one location. The new system, expected to open by the end of 2025, will streamline the security process by allowing passengers to keep laptops, medical devices, and permitted liquids, aerosols, and gels in their carry-on bags. This redesign will also include a dedicated accessible lane for passengers of all abilities. The airport, which recorded 18.9 million passengers in 2024, is focused on expanding its capacity to meet rising demand while maintaining efficiency, safety, and accessibility.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Name | Calgary International Airport |
| Airport Code | YYC |
| Security Screening | Centralized security checkpoint |
| Security Wait Times | Available online for convenience |
| Security Lane | CLEAR Plus Lane in the International Terminal |
| Accessibility | Dedicated lane for passengers of all abilities |
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What You'll Learn
Calgary International Airport security overhaul
Calgary International Airport (YYC) is undergoing a significant security upgrade, with construction underway to consolidate all domestic screening into one centralised location. The new system is expected to be operational by the end of 2025 and will revolutionise the airport security experience for travellers.
The overhaul will see the integration of three separate screening checkpoints into a single, streamlined process. This means that passengers will no longer need to remove laptops, medical devices, or permitted liquids, aerosols, and gels from their carry-on luggage. This will not only enhance convenience but also significantly speed up the security process, reducing wait times and improving the overall efficiency of the airport.
The new security area will feature seven pre-boarding security lanes at launch, with an additional two lanes opening by early 2027, almost doubling the capacity. This expansion is a direct response to the airport's growing passenger volume, which reached 18.9 million in 2024 and is expected to continue rising. By future-proofing the airport, the Calgary Airport Authority demonstrates its commitment to ensuring safe, efficient, and accessible operations.
Passengers can also look forward to an accessible lane catering to travellers of all abilities, further emphasising the airport's dedication to inclusivity. Furthermore, the construction is carefully planned to avoid any disruptions to current security screening operations, ensuring that travellers will not encounter delays due to the project.
With the upcoming enhancements, YYC Calgary International Airport reinforces its position as a leading aviation hub, offering an improved travel experience for all its customers.
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Centralised security checkpoint
The Calgary International Airport is undergoing a major overhaul of its security system, which is set to be implemented by the end of 2025. The new system will introduce a centralised security checkpoint, consolidating all domestic screening into one location. This will streamline the security process, doing away with the need for passengers to remove laptops, medical devices, and permitted liquids, aerosols and gels from their carry-on luggage.
The centralised security checkpoint will feature seven pre-boarding security lanes initially, with two additional lanes opening in early 2027, almost doubling the capacity. This will significantly enhance the efficiency of security screening, reducing wait times and facilitating smoother passenger flow. The redesign also includes a dedicated accessible lane to accommodate passengers with diverse abilities, underscoring the airport's commitment to inclusivity and universal access.
The Calgary Airport Authority, which manages both the Calgary International Airport and Springbank Airport, is focused on enhancing efficiency, safety and accessibility to meet rising passenger demand. With a recorded 18.9 million passengers in 2024 and expected growth through the end of the decade, the expansion is timely and necessary. The new centralised security checkpoint is a key component of the airport's development strategy, aiming to expedite security screening while maintaining the highest standards of safety and security.
The centralised security checkpoint will be a significant upgrade, transforming the security experience for travellers. By consolidating screening operations into one location, passengers will benefit from reduced complexity and faster processing times. This streamlined approach aligns with the airport's goal of providing a seamless and efficient travel experience, ensuring that security checks are swift and convenient without compromising on safety. The new system promises to revolutionise the security screening process, elevating the overall airport experience for travellers passing through Calgary International Airport.
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Accessible lane for all passengers
Calgary International Airport (YYC) is known for its easy navigation, many services, and helpful volunteers. The airport is equipped to provide an accessible experience for all passengers. Friendly Customer Care Ambassadors are available to help during the customs process and at the domestic arrivals information centre near Door 7. The ambassadors, who can be identified by their purple scarves and ties, are fluent in English and 10 other languages, including French, Tagalog, Cantonese, Mandarin, and Ukrainian. They can assist with wayfinding and problem-solving.
In addition to the ambassadors, travellers can also seek assistance from YYC's White Hat Volunteers, a long-standing program at the airport. These volunteers, who can be spotted by their red vests and sometimes their signature white cowboy hats, are always happy to lend a helping hand. For check-in, baggage, or wheelchair assistance from check-in to the gate, it is recommended to connect with your airline.
To streamline your security experience at Calgary Airport, consider downloading the ArriveCAN app if you're flying into Canada. By filling out your customs and immigration information in advance, you can access the Advance Canada Border Services Agency Declaration express lane and fast-track your entry. Additionally, YYC was the first airport in Canada to introduce a virtual queuing platform called YYC Express. This innovative system allows you to book your spot at security up to 72 hours before your flight's departure, helping you avoid long wait times.
For those with a CLEAR Membership, the CLEAR Plus Lane in the International Terminal offers an express security line experience. With your CLEAR Plus Membership, you can enjoy expedited access to your gate, and your family members can also be added to your account. If you're flying domestically with an airline other than Delta Air Lines, remember to check your bag at the domestic terminal.
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CLEAR Membership benefits
Calgary International Airport offers CLEAR Membership benefits to its passengers. CLEAR+ is a paid membership program that allows members to speed through airport security checks across 59 airports in the United States. Members can access designated CLEAR+ Lanes at TSA checkpoints, saving them time and providing a smoother travel experience.
One of the key advantages of CLEAR Membership is the ability to bypass long security lines. Members can use the CLEAR Plus Lane in the International Terminal at Calgary Airport, making their journey faster and more convenient. This benefit is especially useful for travellers who value efficiency and wish to avoid waiting in queues.
CLEAR+ also offers special pricing and bundling options. For $199 annually, members can unlock faster security checks through the CLEAR Lane. Additionally, members can add up to three adults to their CLEAR+ Membership for $119 per person per year, resulting in significant savings for families or groups travelling together.
Another benefit of CLEAR Membership is the ability to add family members under 18 to the CLEAR Lane for free. This feature ensures that families can travel together seamlessly without incurring additional costs. CLEAR+ also provides exclusive partner benefits, such as discounts on travel essentials and wellness services, and access to top gyms, studios, and spas through ClassPass.
The CLEAR App further enhances the CLEAR Membership experience. The app helps members locate CLEAR Lanes, plan their trip to the airport, and even reserve an Uber ride. It also provides real-time updates on security wait times and airport walking times, ensuring that members can efficiently plan their journey and reach their gate on time.
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Wait times at security
There are a few ways to save time and avoid long wait times at security. One option is to use the CLEAR Plus Lane in the International Terminal, which provides an express security line experience. This can be especially useful if you're flying domestically, as you can easily access your gate with the Plane Train. Additionally, CLEAR offers a new concierge service that guides CLEAR+ members through the airport.
Another option to save time is to enrol in programs such as NEXUS, which is designed to speed up border crossings for pre-approved travellers between the US and Canada. This program currently has a wait time for new applicants, but it can be beneficial in the long run.
Calgary Airport also has its own free online reservation system called YYC Express, where travellers can schedule a security screening appointment up to 72 hours in advance or upon arrival at the airport. This can be a convenient way to secure your spot in line and avoid unexpected delays.
If you are unable to use any of these services, it is recommended to check the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) website or the airport's website for up-to-date security wait times. This can help you plan your arrival at the airport and choose the most efficient security entrance.
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Frequently asked questions
Construction is underway to consolidate all domestic screening at Calgary International Airport into a single, centralized security checkpoint. The new system will eliminate the need for passengers to remove laptops, medical devices, and permitted liquids, aerosols and gels from carry-on bags.
Wait times for security screening queues at Calgary International Airport are calculated by scanning boarding passes when passengers enter the queue and again before their individual screening process. The airport is expanding its capacity to accommodate rising demand.
Yes, there are CLEAR services at Calgary International Airport. CLEAR Plus Lane in the International Terminal allows for faster access to your gate.
The redesigned screening area will include a dedicated accessible lane for passengers of all abilities.
