Stockings are hung at Edmonton International with care

Stockings are hung at Edmonton International with care, in hopes that holiday travellers soon will be there

EDMONTON — The seasonal decorations are up and extra holiday helpers are on hand as Edmonton International Airport prepares for its busiest holiday season ever. To help ensure that your travel plans run as smoothly as Santa’s, it’s a good idea to prepare ahead of time and arrive at the airport a little bit earlier.

Preparing to travel
Before leaving home, please remember the following:

– Ensure that you have packed all documentation required to travel. Requirements vary depending on whether you are travelling within Canada or to another country. Regardless, bring photo ID for all flights.

– Please note that all passengers, including Canadian and U.S. citizens, are required to present a valid passport or NEXUS card when travelling by air between Canada and the United States.

– Specific documentation may be required for children under 18, especially if they aren’t accompanied by their parents/guardians. Confirm details with your airline.

– Check with your airline to confirm your flight, verify that your luggage is within the size and weight restrictions, and clarify any questions you have regarding restrictions for carry-on and checked luggage. If you are travelling with pets, remember to ask about their pet policy too.

– Most major airlines offer customers the option to save time by check-in for their flights online up to 24 hours before departure.

– You can access web check-in services and check your real-time flight information status at www.flyeia.com.

Arrive early, depart on time!
Edmonton Airports recommends that due to increased passenger volumes throughout the holiday season, you arrive at the airport at least 15 minutes earlier than the usual airline-recommended time. Recommended times vary from one hour in advance of departure time for domestic flights, to three hours ahead of departure for some international flights. Check with your airline to see what they suggest.

Holiday season airport entertainment
Seasonal live entertainment will be featured on Departures Level from Dec. 17 — 24. Edmonton International Airport is also happy to provide two new children’s play areas — Kidzworld — to help entertain young travellers while at the airport.

Extra holiday helpers
Edmonton International’s Northern Lights Airport Volunteers will be out in full force during the holiday season. Look for their colourful new uniforms and let them know if there is anything they can do to help you on your way. The “Red Shirts” are also back this year, ready to spread holiday cheer and assist passengers as they make their way through the terminal. More than 60 extra Santa’s helpers decked out in red holiday vests will be stationed throughout the airport from Dec. 19 — Jan. 7.

Dropping off/picking up passengers
Curbside meters are available; however, availability will be limited during the holiday rush and the maximum time allowed is 20 minutes per vehicle. The hourly level of the Parkade provides added flexibility and convenience for well wishers.

Parking while away
Edmonton Airports has several parking options available to passengers. Value Park offers long-term economical parking with shuttle bus service. Parkade Park is adjacent to the terminal and can be accessed via covered pedways. More than 100 additional Parkade stalls will be available by Dec. 14. Holiday travellers can also take advantage of new parking pay stations in the airport terminal and express exit lanes for credit card payment to help passengers get on their way faster. Check for rates and services at www.flyeia.com/parking.

Take out and take off!
You’re on the move and so is your hunger. Take out and take off with our handy JetSet packages. Each JetSet contains an assortment of snacks for your flight, together in one easy-to-carry box. There are four options to choose from and they are available for purchase for $5 – 6 each. There’s even a special children’s pack that includes a colouring book and crayons to keep them entertained on the flight. Avoid the line ups and pick up your favourite JetSet at Priceless (located in the Departures Lounge behind Indigo bookstore). Simply follow the signs once you exit security.

Security screening
Customers are advised to keep in mind enhanced security measures when preparing to travel. For the most up-to-date regulations governing carry-on and checked luggage, check the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) website at www.catsa.ca. To assist with efficiently moving through security screening, please consider the following guidelines:

– Check with your airline to determine carry-on limits. Some carriers permit one carry-on item and one personal item, such as a purse. Some carriers allow two carry-on items.

– Pack your own bags. Travel light; this will help you move through security screening quickly.

– If you are unsure about an item you wish to take through security, please check with security.

– Do not bring wrapped packages. Wrap your gifts once you arrive at your destination.

– Liquids, gels, and aerosols are permitted through security screening at Canadian airports provided that the items are packaged in containers with a capacity of 100 ml/100 grams (3.4 oz) or less, and that the containers fit comfortably in one clear, closed and re-sealable plastic bag with a capacity of no more than 1 litre (1 quart). One bag per passenger is permitted.

– Knives or knife-like sharp objects will not be permitted through pre-board screening. Ensure no sharp objects like scissors are in your carry-on bag. Take time when packing, and avoid bringing anything that could be interpreted as a weapon or a dangerous item.

– Travellers bringing electronic equipment as carry-on must be prepared to declare them, and if required, demonstrate that they are in working order.

– Sports equipment such as skates, skis, snowboards, ski poles, hockey sticks and golf clubs are not permitted as carry-on items and must be transported as checked baggage.

– Avoid bringing non-permitted or dangerous goods by checking CATSA’s permitted and non-permitted items list at: https://www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/en/whatcanIbring.

Other sources of information for travellers
You can contact us by calling 780-890-8382 or 1-800-268-7134. Travel agents are also a good source of advice and can provide you with travel options.

Edmonton International Airport is committed to complying with all government directives to provide a safe and secure trip for all travellers. We wish you a joyous and peaceful holiday season.

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Edmonton International Airport is Canada’s fastest-growing major airport.

FURTHER INFORMATION:
Edmonton Airports Corporate Communications
Jim Rudolph, Phone: (780) 890-8454, Cell: (780) 717-5117
E-mail: jrudolph@flyeia.com