Officials are getting ready to welcome millions of people to Calgary, with many of those visitors arriving at the gates of the airport this summer. Following a record-breaking summer in 2025, Calgary Airports, formerly the Calgary Airport Authority, is anticipating more than six million travellers in 2026. “An airport is where summer really starts for a lot of people,” said Chris Miles, chief operating officer at Calgary Airports, in a news release. “You see families heading off on long-awaited vacations, friends reuniting and loved ones waiting at arrivals. Even as people plan more carefully this year, travel still matters deeply.” Calgary Airports foresee more than 66,000 travellers heading through the airport each day, so officials say it’s more important than ever that everyone is prepared for their trips. Officials say guests should arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. This time is to allow for smooth check-ins, security screenings and visits with U.S. border control for all U.S.-bound travellers. “Summer is a high travel season. While our screening lines are well staffed, lineups can occur during peak travel times,” said Gurjit Gill, Canadian Air Transport Security Authority’s (CATSA) general manager of service delivery for the Prairie region. “Arriving early helps ensure travellers have enough time to check in, go through security screening and get to their gate. Passengers can also visit CATSA’s website to find the rules for what can and cannot be packed in their carry-on bags or checked baggage.” Calgary Airports says there are also a variety of ways staff are helping during the busy season, including a few fun ways to help guests pass the time before their flights. Some of the amenities include complimentary strollers for families with young children, luggage carts in terminals as well as bag and coat-check services for those looking to visit Calgary during a layover. If you’re really stuck, Calgary Airports say there is always someone available to help. “If you need a hand along the way, look for YYC’s White Hat Volunteers, ready to help with directions, questions or recommendations,” officials said. Officials say there will also be live local music performances every day throughout the terminal all summer long.
