YUL Airport Live Departures
Checking in at Montreal Airport
Although Montreal Airport only has one building and one terminal, you’ll need to pay attention to the signage and screens to find the entrances and locate your airline’s check-in desk. The check-in procedures will depend on your airline, but there are three different methods available at YUL Airport. Some airlines allow you to check in online and go straight to security if you only have hand luggage. However, in most cases, you’ll need to go to your airline’s check-in desk to formally check in, collect your boarding pass, and drop off your luggage. There are also self check-in kiosks which allow you to check in, print your own boarding pass, and tag your luggage for transit. These machines are quite intuitive to use, but you can consult a member of staff if you need help.
You can find the latest information on Montreal Airport departures today on the official website, on the screens around the public area of the terminal, or on our live departures board above.
When to arrive at Montreal Airport?
Montreal Airport suggests you arrive at least three hours before your flight. This will give you enough time to get through security and customs. Even if you’re flying domestically, you should arrive at least two hours before, but three hours is preferable, given the size of the airport.
What’s next?
After checking in and dropping off your bags, head to the security checkpoint. On quieter days, it may only take 30 minutes to get through security. On busier days, it can take over an hour so you should arrive as early as possible.
There are two pre-boarding security checkpoints: A and C. Checkpoint A is for domestic and international flights. Checkpoint C is for transborder (US) flights. Your airline or boarding pass will show you which checkpoint you need to go to. You can also consult a member of staff at check-in.
To make your transit smoother, you can also take advantage of the fast-track programs available at YUL Airport, such as NEXUS and Global Entry, and Mobile Passport Control (MPC).
While you are in the queue for security screening, remove any outerwear, including coats, jackets, belts, etc. You should also remove anything that might set off the metal detector, like jewelry, watches, and wearable electronics. Your hand luggage, outerwear, jewelry, and electronics should be placed in a tray when you reach the conveyor belts. You may also be asked to remove your shoes if they cover your ankles (e.g., boots).
For any packed electronics, like a laptop, you can leave these in your hand luggage for screening.
All liquid, aerosol, gel, and cream products should be stored in a liter-sized clear plastic bag. The individual containers of each product cannot exceed 100ml or 3.5 fluid ounces.
Once all of your items are in a tray, you can walk through the metal detector when prompted.
If all is well, you can walk straight through to the Montreal Airport Departures lounge.
Note: For passengers flying to the US, there is an extra customs check after security. This pre-clearance check enables you to skip customs checks when you land in the US.
What to do in Departures at Montreal Airport?
Montreal Airport has everything you need for a comfortable transit, including bathrooms, baby change facilities, ATMs, currency exchange, and ample seating.
There is also a selection of restaurants, gift shops, and a duty-free for your perusal.
Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the departures lounge.
If you want a calm place to relax before your flight, consider booking into one of the seven Montreal Airport Departures VIP Lounges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you go through US customs in Montréal?
If you are flying to the US from Montreal, you will go through a pre-clearance customs check after security. This means you won’t need to go through customs again when you land. Have your travel documents close to hand and be mindful that you are not permitted to bring certain products across the border.
How early should I arrive at Montreal Airport for an international flight?
How much time do I need at Montreal Airport?
