A different holiday season at YWG

December 15, 2020

Categories: At YWG, Travel Well YWG

Travellers at the baggage carousel next to Christmas trees on display inside the terminal

The 20-foot-tall, sparkling trees travellers and employees always love to see are on display in the Arrivals Hall as Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (YWG) prepares to usher in the 2020 holiday season.

This year will be significantly different than years past but Winnipeg Airports Authority’s (WAA) commitment to safety remains the same.

Those planning to travel over the holidays can interact with the airport and its amenities with confidence knowing heightened cleaning practices are being carried out in all areas of the terminal as part of the YWG Clean Program. This multi-layered approach to cleanliness earned YWG a global health recognition on behalf of Airports Council International, further highlighting WAA’s commitment to best practices in the industry to provide a healthy airport environment. With increased cleaning standards being met across the airport campus, public health protocols are also in full effect to prioritize safety above all else.

Arrivals Hall photo highlighting physical distancing signage

Upon entering the terminal, masks are required to be worn properly, physical distancing reminders are constant and hand sanitizer stations are offered at every turn. Temperature screenings are being conducted at all security checkpoints and signage is available in French and English to raise awareness of the current situation in Manitoba. While the facility is ready to safely greet passengers, it’s important for travellers to be prepared for a new experience too. During the holiday season, some people may be travelling for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and much has changed over the past nine months.

For those planning to travel, the airport offers a step-by-step guide of what to expect called the New YWG Travel Experience. This includes everything from having increased tap services to accommodate touch-free parking to reminding travellers to only approach the baggage carousel when they see their luggage to avoid crowding.

Three tips to help ensure a positive airport experience this season include:

  1. Arrive with plenty of time prior to your scheduled departure – This helps account for new health measures, such as airlines asking additional questions at various stages.
  2. Review what is open at the airport before you travel - A number of restaurants and establishments are currently closed or are operating with reduced hours. Check out the Dining, Shopping and Service section of our website to plan for your time at the airport and avoid any surprises.
  3. Ensure you are aware of entry/arrival requirements - If you are travelling outside of Canada, additional documentation may be required. Airlines can help provide information based on your travel itinerary. All travellers also need to be aware of Canadian border restrictions and self-isolation protocols, including for domestic travel. For Manitoba, these details are outlined on the Province of Manitoba’s website.

While travel requires more research this holiday season as circumstances around the pandemic continue to fluctuate in different regions, approximately 1,000 people are moving through the airport each day at this time. Passenger traffic is expected to increase by a small, measured amount over the next couple weeks as some make the decision to travel for a variety of reasons. WAA continues to explore every opportunity to facilitate safe travel at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport, working closely with airport partners and public health authorities to provide a healthy environment for those travelling now and in the new year.

For more information on any topic outlined above, including safe travel updates and more helpful tips, visit the New YWG Travel Experience section of our website.  

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