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Montreal-Trudeau Airport travel warnings for March break: parking, transit, and check-in guidance

In preparation for chaotic spring break travel amid major renovations, YUL has issued important travel tips around the airport this month.

Laura Osborne
Written by
Laura Osborne
Editor, Time Out Canada
Montreal-Trudeau Airport
Photograph: Shutterstock / Paulose NK
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Spring break at YUL is not for the unprepared—plan ahead, move smart, and stay one step ahead of the crowds.

With thousands of families and travellers set to jet off to sun-soaked destinations, YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport is gearing up for a frenzy and has issued some important travel tips. 

Read more: New Montreal YUL airport parking lot open with 1,000 additional spaces

Amid major renovations designed to better serve passengers, ADM Aéroports de Montréal warns that navigating the airport this season will require planning, patience, and some insider scoop.

Parking is tight: with the permanent closure of the multi-level lot and EconoParc P5, securing a space is no longer optional—reservations are essential. 

On top of that, peak-hour traffic has intensified, making access to the terminal more challenging than ever. 

Passengers are strongly urged to plan their trips ahead, use the Express drop-off zones at P4 and P10, and arrive a full three hours before departure.


For travellers:

Map your journey using the YUL Transit Planner and check road conditions via Québec 511 before leaving.

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Explore public transit options in your area to avoid the parking squeeze.

If you haven’t booked a parking spot, consider alternative transportation—space may not be available on arrival.

Drop-offs work best at the Express areas near P4 or P10, open 24/7 and served by frequent shuttles straight to the terminal.

Speed through check-in and security with digital services like Mobile Passport Control, YUL Express, and Enhanced Passenger Processing.

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Returning to Canada? Complete your customs and immigration declaration via the CBSA app to slash wait times.

YUL
Photograph: Shutterstock / Pascal Huot

Picking up passengers:

Use the P4 Express drop-off area for pickups, ensuring your passenger has arrived.

If not, CellParc’s free holding lot offers up to two hours of waiting time.

For further assistance, consult ADM’s FAQ, approach one of the red-jacketed ambassadors in the terminal, or reach the YUL Satisfaction team in real time via YULChat.

For more information about parking at the Montréal–Trudeau International Airport, click here.

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