Travellers using Edmonton International Airport (EIA) should be aware of potential traffic delays due to road construction. A number of projects are underway both within the city of Edmonton and along the QE II highway which could impact your travel plans. As always, please also consider seasonal traffic volumes and leave lots of time to travel to EIA and check-in for your flight. Also, as fall approaches, weather conditions can change rapidly and hamper traffic flow.
Please note that all forms of ground transportation including the Sky Shuttle may be affected by road works and traffic snarls. EIA strongly recommends you use local media and official websites to familiarize yourself with traffic issues and plan your routes accordingly.
Arrive Early, Depart On Time
EIA is committed to helping you on your way. We recommend that all travellers plan to arrive at EIA at least 15 minutes before the check-in time recommended by your airline. This will give some “cushion” time in case of unexpected traffic delays, and will allow you to find a parking space and make your way into the terminal without an uncomfortable rush. If returning a rental car, please allow up to 20 minutes for vehicle check-in at peak times.
Road Construction
A number of road works projects are underway across the Alberta Capital Region, all of which could affect EIA travelers. Drivers need to pay special attention to the major interchange construction project at 23rd Avenue and the QE II highway. During peak times, this area can create a bottleneck with significant delays. We recommend checking www.23avenue.com for the latest updates on this project.
EIA encourages all drivers to obey posted speed limits, use caution in construction zones and follow the directions of flag persons and traffic control devices. Anthony Henday Drive is an excellent alternative to connecting to QE II and travelling south to EIA.
Traffic Congestion
As the Edmonton region has grown, traffic congestion in the area has become a more prominent issue. Depending on time of day, seasonal changes and known construction, traffic tie-ups in the city and on the highways can add to your travel time. Additionally, we recommend listening for radio traffic reports due to accidents and unforeseen road works which could cause you a delay.
Weather Conditions
With fall and winter fast approaching, Alberta drivers need to pay careful attention to weather reports and plan for longer than usual drive times to EIA in inclement conditions. We recommend paying close attention to Edmonton-area traffic reports in the local media, and visiting AMA Road Reports if you’re travelling in from outside the metropolitan area.
Parking at EIA
EIA has added thousands of new parking spaces in the past few years. The new 1,000-stall parkade expansion is now open and constructions has begun on a new surface lot.
EIA has three convenient parking options when you travel with EIA: Parkade Park, Value Park, and Valet Park. Everyone can “exit with ease” using EIA’s Pay & Go parking payment stations.
Check-in Cutoff Times
Please note the recommended time for check-in provided by your airline, and plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before then. Also, each airline will have a check-in cutoff time after which they will not be able to register you for your flight – it is absolutely critical that you arrive at EIA well before that time! Check the terms and conditions of your ticket for cutoff times.
Links
Web Check-in at EIA
23rd Avenue Interchange Project
City of Edmonton Transportation
Alberta Transportation’s SafeRoads Construction Zone Traffic Safety Page