For such an expansive airport, airlines based in the US (like United Airlines, American Airlines and Alaska Airlines) are tucked away in a corner. When I arrive, there are six United Airlines counters open, but there’s confusion about whether you need to check in with a person or using a machine. Adding to this confusion is the fact that you can’t check in for United flights on every machine. After I get my boarding pass and suitcase tag from a machine, I go to the priority line (as a Virgin Velocity Gold member) and get processed straight away.
Security
I receive a text message 24 hours before departure informing me that if I’m planning to arrive at the airport between 4.15am and 12pm, I should use the no-cost “YYC Fast Lane” express appointment system to book ahead and save my spot in the airport security line. My flight is at 3.30pm so I don’t bother. This turns out to be a mistake as it takes me 41 minutes (yes, I timed it) to move through the constipated lines. Grumpy passengers are well managed by the ever-chirpy staff on duty.
Food + drink
If you’re looking for the iconic Canadian snack of a Tim Hortons’ donut, you’ll have to grab one before you come through security. On airside, you’ll find the usual suspects – a Burger King, a sushi outlet, as well as the Belgian Beer Cafe and Wolfgang Puck Kitchen and Bar. The food from Thai Express is hot, tasty and cooked to order.
Retail therapy
As well as the ubiquitous oversized Toblerone bars and slightly cheaper alcohol in the Calgary Duty Free store, the retail offerings are scant in this part of the airport (Concourse E). I’m looking for a souvenir T-shirt for my eight-year-old daughter, but there’s only a newsagent, a jewellery store, a chocolate shop and a travel store. Even the child-focused “Who’s who in the Zoo” doesn’t have any Canadian specific kids’ T-shirts.
Passing time
There are a couple of play zones for children, some comfortable loungers and a “selfie station” (a brightly coloured wall with a seat in front of it), but apart from that, bring a book or use the free Wi-Fi to download some podcasts or watch your favourite shows.
One more thing
The Calgary Airport Authority has recently introduced a “Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program”, where people with non-visible disabilities can pick up a sunflower lanyard, pin and/or ID card that indicates they may need additional support, patience or time.
Verdict
It’s a spacious and clean airport with cheery staff but with limited entertainment, shopping and dining options.
Our rating out of five
★★★½
The writer travelled as a guest of Destination Canada and Tourism Calgary.
