Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport (IATA: YOW, ICAO: CYOW) is the primary airport for Canada’s National Capital Region, serving Ottawa–Gatineau and eastern Ontario/western Québec. Operated by the Ottawa International Airport Authority, YOW handles domestic, U.S. transborder, and international flights from a single terminal.
| Operator | Ottawa International Airport Authority |
|---|---|
| Location | Ottawa, Ontario (serves Ottawa–Gatineau) |
| Codes | IATA: YOW • ICAO: CYOW |
| Terminal | Single integrated terminal (domestic, international & U.S. preclearance sectors) |
| Security & border | CATSA • CBSA • U.S. preclearance |
| Air navigation | NAV CANADA (tower/terminal/en-route) |
| Official site | yow.ca |
Overview
YOW is the gateway to the nation’s capital, supporting government, business, and leisure travel. The terminal concentrates check-in, security, and arrivals in a compact layout with clear bilingual signage and seasonal capacity adjustments.
Terminal and services
Amenities include lounges, retail and dining, family rooms, pet relief areas, multi-faith/prayer space, and special-assistance counters. Accessibility features and policies align with federal requirements overseen by the Canadian Transportation Agency.
Ground transport
- Rail/transit: City transit connections link the airport to the O-Train network via transfer points; dedicated airport bus services operate to key hubs.
- Road: Direct access via Airport Parkway/arterials; taxis, ride-hail, limousines, rental cars, and hotel shuttles serve designated curbs.
- Parking: Short- and long-term parking and cell-phone waiting areas.
Operations and airfield
Multiple runways support year-round operations, with de-icing and winter maintenance programs. NAV CANADA provides tower, terminal, and en-route ATC services; noise-management and community engagement programs are published by the airport authority.
Security, border, and customs
CATSA conducts screening. CBSA processes international arrivals. U.S. preclearance facilities expedite eligible departures to the United States.
See also
- Airports in Canada • Transport Canada • NAV CANADA • Canadian Air Transport Security Authority • Canadian Transportation Agency
External links (official)
- Ottawa International Airport — Home & flights: https://yow.ca/