Centralized security area to open as Calgary International Airport prepares for holiday surge

YYC is hoping this year's holiday season will be easier for travellers, with a new centralized security area opening in the domestic terminal.

Travellers flying through the Calgary International Airport will soon move through a centralized screening area, just in time for the busy holiday rush.

YYC is expecting to see about 1.5 million travellers through its international and domestic terminals this month alone.

“In the month of December, we’ll have an average of around 48,000 (passengers per day), but during those peak days, we’ll get to 60,000-65,000 passengers coming through our doors every day,” said Chris Miles, Calgary Airports CEO.

Set to open Wednesday, the central security area will bring high-tech screening infrastructure to the domestic terminal, similar to what’s already on the international side.

“Opening of those seven lanes represents almost a 40 per cent improvement in capacity versus what is there today. And for the travellers, it offers a much simpler travel experience,” Miles said.

It couldn’t come at a better time for travellers.

The 15th, 19th and 20th of December are anticipated to be the busiest holiday travel days at YYC.

The $50-million security upgrade project means people flying domestic from Calgary will no longer need to remove electronics and liquids from their carry-on while passing through screening, as long as the liquids, aerosols or gels are under 100 mL.

Large knives, sharp tools and even large snow globes are still prohibited items.

Security officials also remind holiday travellers not to wrap Christmas gifts before passing through security.