Fort McMurray International Airport

Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is not just an air gateway, but a true hub connecting the world with the heart of Canada's oil production, the Wood Buffalo region. Opened in 2014, the modern terminal has become a symbol of the city's growth and importance, offering passengers a high level of comfort amidst the rugged northern nature. This airport plays a key role in the economic life of northern Alberta, serving both business travellers and tourists wishing to explore this unique region. Its award-winning architecture is harmoniously integrated into the surrounding landscape and utilises eco-friendly technologies.

Features and Benefits

The new airport terminal, costing 258 million dollars, was designed with maximum passenger convenience and environmental standards in mind. Inside, you will find a variety of cafes and shops, including well-known chains such as Tim Hortons and Earls Kitchen + Bar, as well as ATMs and car rental desks. The airport has been recognised with awards for service quality, cleanliness, and comfort, making the journey through it particularly pleasant. For passengers seeking peace and privacy, there are designated "quiet rooms" suitable for rest, meditation, or for parents with young children. Additionally, the terminal building uses energy-saving technologies, such as radiant floor heating and heat recovery systems, highlighting a responsible attitude towards the environment.

To contact representatives of Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM), you can use the following contact details:

• Official website: www.flyymm.com — here you will find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations.
• Information desk phone: +1 780-793-8979.
• Airport address: 100-215 Airport Rd, Fort McMurray, AB T9H 0G2, Canada.
• Email: For general inquiries, you can use the address info@flyymm.com.
• Social media: The airport actively maintains pages on popular social networks. Links to them can be found on the main page of the official website.
• Lost luggage information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, you must first contact the Lost and Found service of your airline. Carrier contacts are usually listed on the airport website.
• Passenger support contacts: For general questions and assistance, you can contact the airport via the main phone number or email.

Getting to Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) from the city centre of Fort McMurray and back is quite simple. Travellers can choose from several convenient methods depending on their budget and preferences. The main options include public transport, taxi or transfer, as well as a rented or personal car.

Public Transport is the most economical way to get to the airport. The local bus network (Fort McMurray Transit) offers routes connecting the airport with key points in the city. The cost of a single trip is typically just a few Canadian dollars. Although a bus ride may take longer than a car, it is an excellent choice for budget travellers with light luggage. It is recommended to check the current schedule and routes on the transport service's official website in advance.

Taxis, Ridesharing, and Transfers are the most convenient and fastest options. The trip from the city centre to the airport usually takes about 15–20 minutes. The cost of a taxi ride will be approximately 30–40 Canadian dollars. Taxis are always available at the terminal exit, and you can also use popular ridesharing services. For greater convenience, especially if you are travelling in a group or with bulky luggage, you can book a private transfer in advance.

Car Rental is the ideal choice for those who value independence and plan to explore not only the city but also its picturesque surroundings. Several major rental company counters are located within the airport building. For those arriving at the airport in their own car, parking is provided. Both short-term and long-term parking zones are available, located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal. The cost of long-term parking starts from approximately 15 Canadian dollars per day, making it a convenient option for extended trips.

When planning your trip, it is worth noting that for a wider selection of international flights, travellers sometimes use larger aviation hubs, such as Edmonton International Airport. It is located approximately 400 km south, and from there you can reach Fort McMurray via a domestic flight or ground transport.

Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is distinguished by its modern and thoughtful infrastructure, focused on passenger comfort. The airport consists of one main passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, navigation through the building is intuitive and does not cause difficulties even for first-time visitors.

The terminal layout is very logical. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. On the ground floor, there are check-in counters, the baggage claim area, and customs and border control points for arriving international flights. After checking in, passengers proceed to the second floor, where the security checkpoint and boarding gates are located. The space is bright and open, with clear signage in English, making movement through the terminal quick and convenient.

Since all operations are concentrated in one building, there is no need to transfer between terminals. This significantly saves time and eliminates unnecessary hassle. The departure zone after security offers passengers cosy waiting lounges, several cafes, and shops. Despite its relatively small size, the airport is designed efficiently to minimise crowding.

Check-in and security procedures at Fort McMurray Airport usually take less time than at major hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight and 2-3 hours before an international one. During peak hours, associated with shift changes at regional facilities, waiting times may increase. For quick navigation, simply follow the signs: "Departures" will lead you to check-in and security, and "Arrivals" to the baggage claim area and the exit to the city.

The history of Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is closely intertwined with the development of the region and its main industry—oil sands extraction. Initially, air travel in this part of Canada was served by seaplanes landing on rivers. The official founding date of the airport is considered to be 1936, when it began operating as a base for so-called "bush pilots" who provided links to remote settlements.

As the city of Fort McMurray and the oil industry grew, so did the need for a more modern air harbour. In 1966, the airport was moved to its current location and received its first paved runway. However, the real boom in development occurred at the beginning of the 21st century. Rapid growth in passenger traffic led to the need for radical expansion. The culmination of this process was the opening in June 2014 of a new, modern passenger terminal costing 258 million dollars. This event not only quadrupled the airport's capacity but also marked its renaming to Fort McMurray International Airport.

One of the most dramatic and at the same time heroic pages in the airport's history was May 2016. During the catastrophic wildfire that engulfed the city and its surroundings, YMM played a key role in the rescue operation. The airport did not cease operations, becoming an evacuation centre for thousands of residents and the main base for firefighting aviation. In those days, the runway turned into a temporary camp for evacuees, and airport staff coordinated hundreds of flights around the clock, taking people to safety. This episode forever cemented the airport's status as a vital facility for the entire region.

International Airport Fort McMurray (YMM), an important transport hub in Canada, offers passengers a wide range of services for a comfortable journey. In the secure area and the public access zone, you will find various cafes and restaurants where you can have a full meal or a quick snack before your flight. There are also shops where you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, press, and gifts.

For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. To ensure you stay connected, numerous charging stations for electronic devices are equipped in the waiting lounges. For business travellers, the airport offers modern conference rooms and meeting rooms equipped with everything necessary for conducting meetings.

Passengers who value enhanced comfort can use the services of the business lounge. Families with small children will find specially equipped nursing rooms here. The airport is fully accessible to passengers with reduced mobility: it is equipped with ramps, elevators, special restrooms, and offers staff assistance if needed.

ATMs from several major banks are located in the terminal; however, currency exchange points may be absent, so it is recommended to arrange currency exchange in advance. In case of unforeseen situations, medical personnel are on duty at the airport around the clock, ready to provide first aid.

Although hotels are not located directly within the airport building, many hotels are situated just a few minutes' drive away. Most of them provide their guests with a convenient shuttle service to and from the airport, making them an excellent choice for transit passengers or those arriving late at night.

Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM), despite its relatively small size, offers passengers several decent options for a snack or a full meal. Most establishments are located in the main part of the terminal, primarily in the sterile zone (airside), accessible after passing security control.

For a Full Lunch or Dinner

If you have enough time before your flight and want to eat in peace, consider the restaurants in the departure zone.

• Earls Kitchen + Bar: This is a popular Canadian full-service restaurant. The menu features international cuisine: from burgers and salads to steaks and pasta. It is a great place for a leisurely lunch or dinner in a comfortable setting. If you want to try something local, look for dishes made with Alberta beef.
• Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria: A wonderful alternative for lovers of Italian cuisine. Here they prepare authentic Neapolitan pizza in a wood-fired oven. An excellent choice for a hearty lunch with friends or family.

For a Quick Snack and Coffee

If time is limited, the airport has several fast-food outlets and cafes.

• Tim Hortons: An iconic Canadian chain where you can quickly grab a coffee, eat a famous doughnut, or take a sandwich. One of the outlets is often located in the public zone (landside), which is convenient for those seeing off or meeting passengers.
• Starbucks: Another world-famous coffee house offering a wide selection of coffee drinks, tea, and light snacks. It is usually located in the sterile zone.
• Jugo Juice: The ideal option for those who prefer healthy eating. Here you will be offered fresh juices, smoothies, and healthy snacks.

Special Dietary Needs and Prices

In full-service restaurants like Earls, the menu usually has markings for vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. Jugo Juice offers many vegan options. Regarding Halal food, certified establishments may not be available, so it is recommended to verify ingredients directly with the staff. The price range at the airport is generally slightly higher than the city average. The opening hours of most cafes and restaurants are tied to the flight schedule — they open with the first morning departures and close after the last evening ones.

When planning a departure from Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM), allow sufficient time. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This will give you a buffer in case of queues, especially during peak seasons. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight on your airline's website and save the boarding pass on your phone.

Passing security control at airports in Canada is subject to standard rules. All liquids in hand luggage (perfumes, gels, creams) must be packed in containers of no more than 100 ml and placed in a single transparent resealable bag. Be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your bag. To speed up the process, remove outerwear, belts, and metal objects in advance.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat will allow you to stand up freely without disturbing your neighbours. For more legroom, choose seats by the emergency exit, but remember that this imposes certain responsibilities. If you have a transfer at another airport, ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if you have to pass customs and border control. At check-in, clarify whether your luggage will be automatically transferred to the final destination.

For passengers arriving from abroad, customs control is mandatory. Have your passport and completed declaration ready (or use the mobile app if available). Honestly declare all goods purchased abroad to avoid fines. To save money, book airport parking online in advance — this is often cheaper. You can also take an empty reusable water bottle with you and fill it after passing security control.

In case of flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information and instructions. Follow updates on information boards and in the airline's app. Study your rights under the Canadian Air Passenger Protection Regulations — in some cases, you may be entitled to compensation, food vouchers, or hotel accommodation. While waiting for your flight, you can use the free Wi-Fi, charge your devices, and have a snack in one of the airport cafes.