Regina International Airport

Regina International Airport (YQR) is not just the air gateway to the capital of the Saskatchewan province, but also a vital transport hub for the entire southern part of Canada. Located in the prairies, the airport welcomes travellers with a modern terminal and an atmosphere of hospitality characteristic of this region. Despite its comparatively small size, it plays a key role in connecting Regina with major cities across the country and international destinations, serving as a starting point for many business and leisure trips. The airport is constantly evolving, striving to make every passenger's journey as comfortable and efficient as possible.

Although the airport has only one terminal, it offers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for your flight. Passengers have access to complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the premises, several cafés and restaurants for refreshments, as well as shops, including souvenir outlets and duty-free shopping. For travellers with children, a play area is provided, while business travellers will appreciate the convenient workstations.

One of the key features of the airport is its compactness and convenient navigation, allowing for a quick passage through all pre-flight formalities without unnecessary hassle. Furthermore, the airport is actively working on expanding its route network, offering both domestic flights within Canada and international connections, including popular holiday destinations in the USA and the Caribbean. The airport administration also takes pride in its support programme for passengers with special needs and its participation in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative, aimed at assisting people with non-visible disabilities.

• Official Website: yqr.ca
• Information Desk Phone: +1 306-761-7555
• Address: 5201 Regina Ave, Regina, SK S4W 1B3, Canada
• Email for Feedback: comments@yqr.ca
• Social Media: You can follow airport updates on their pages on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.
• Lost and Found Information: If you have left items in the terminal, please contact the airport administration at +1 306-761-7555. For issues regarding lost luggage or items left on board the aircraft, please contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general enquiries and assistance, please use the main airport phone number +1 306-761-7555.

Getting to Regina International Airport (YQR) from the city centre is quite simple due to its close proximity. Travellers can choose from several convenient methods depending on their preferences, budget, and amount of luggage.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Regina Transit buses operate throughout the city, and several routes pass near the airport. For instance, Route No. 1 (Sherwood/McCarthy) has a stop within walking distance of the terminal. The journey from the city centre takes approximately 20–30 minutes. This is an excellent choice for travellers with light luggage looking to save money.

Taxis and Transfers offer a fast and comfortable way to reach the airport. A trip from the centre of Regina by taxi or via ride-hailing services (such as Uber) will take just 10–15 minutes. The estimated cost is around 15–25 Canadian dollars. This option is ideal if you have heavy luggage or value your time. Private transfers can also be booked in advance.

Car Rental is a perfect solution for those planning to travel actively around the Saskatchewan province and beyond. Counters for most major international and local rental agencies are located within the airport building. Renting a car gives you complete freedom of movement across the vast landscapes of Canada and allows you to reach the airport comfortably on the day of your departure.

If you are driving to the airport in your own vehicle, parking facilities are at your service. The airport grounds feature both short-term and long-term parking zones located in immediate proximity to the passenger terminal. This is a convenient, though more costly, option for those who prefer personal transport.

Regina International Airport (YQR) is a modern and compact aviation hub distinguished by a simple and clear structure. This significantly facilitates navigation for all passengers arriving in this corner of Canada or departing from it.

The airport consists of a single two-storey terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Such an organisation makes it extremely convenient for passengers — it is impossible to get lost here, and all necessary zones are within walking distance. Transfers between terminals are non-existent as they are not required.

The terminal layout is intuitively clear:

• Ground Floor — This is the Arrivals area. Here you will find baggage claim belts, customs control counters for international flights, car rental offices, and exits to taxis and public transport.
• First Floor (Second Level) — This is the Departures area. It houses airline check-in counters, the security screening checkpoint, and the main departure lounge with boarding gates. You will also find cafés and shops on this floor.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Regina Airport usually takes little time. Thanks to its small size and efficient staff, check-in and security screening proceed quite quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport according to standard guidelines: 90 minutes before a domestic flight and 2–3 hours before an international one. For navigation, simply follow the clear signs in English and French. The entire path from entering the building to the boarding gate is logical and simple, making your time at YQR comfortable and predictable.

The history of Regina International Airport (YQR) is the story of aviation development in the province of Saskatchewan and throughout Canada. The airport was officially founded in 1928 and opened for flights in 1930, making it one of the oldest commercial airports in the country. Initially, it was a modest airfield, but its strategic location in the prairies quickly made it an important transport hub.

A key stage in the airport's history was the Second World War. From 1940, it became one of the main bases for the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan (BCATP). It hosted Elementary Flying Training School No. 2, where thousands of pilots from around the world underwent their initial training before deployment. It was during this period that the first paved runway and the first control tower were built, laying the foundation for future growth.

After the war, the airport returned to civil use and began to develop actively. In 1960, a new terminal building was constructed, symbolising Regina's entry into the jet age. Over the following decades, the airport was constantly modernised to meet growing passenger traffic and new security requirements. Runways were lengthened to accommodate larger aircraft, and navigation equipment was updated.

Significant reconstruction took place in the late 1980s, and then between 2004 and 2005, when the terminal was substantially expanded and modernised. During these works, new boarding gates were added, security and check-in areas were improved, and departure lounges were expanded to enhance passenger comfort. Since 1999, management of the airport transferred from the federal government to the non-profit Regina Airport Authority, allowing for a more flexible response to regional needs.

Today, Regina International Airport is a modern aviation complex that takes pride in its rich history. An interesting fact: for many years it remained the only airport in Saskatchewan capable of handling large international flights, and it continues to play a key role in the economic and social life of the province, connecting it with the rest of the world.

Regina International Airport (YQR) offers passengers all the necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several establishments where you can have a snack or a full meal — from cafés with quick bites and aromatic coffee to restaurants offering a variety of dishes. Shops are also available where you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, and newspapers.

For those who value enhanced comfort, the airport features a premium lounge (Aspire Lounge). Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoying complimentary beverages, snacks, and access to business press. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices will allow you to stay connected at all times.

Essential financial services are available at Regina Airport: there are ATMs for cash withdrawals and currency exchange points. In case of unforeseen situations, first aid provision is available. Airport staff are always ready to assist and direct you to the appropriate service.

For travellers with children, special nursing rooms are equipped where you can take care of your baby in a quiet environment. The airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: ramps, lifts, and specially equipped restrooms are available. If necessary, an escort service can be booked in advance.

If you require accommodation, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, many of which offer complimentary transfers for their guests. For business travellers, conference rooms or business centres may be available at the airport to hold a meeting or work while waiting for departure.

At Regina International Airport (YQR), travellers can find several convenient options for a snack or a full meal. Dining establishments are located both in the public area before security control and in the secure area after it, allowing you to refresh yourself depending on your schedule.

In the landside area, accessible to all visitors, you will find the Tim Hortons express café. This is an ideal place to quickly enjoy famous Canadian coffee with a doughnut or sandwich if you are seeing someone off or have just arrived at the airport. Food and drinks are available for takeaway.

The majority of establishments are located in the departure zone (airside), after passing security control. The main venue here is the Skyway Restaurant & Lounge. This is a full-service restaurant where you can have a leisurely breakfast, lunch, or dinner while waiting for your flight. The menu features classic North American cuisine, including hot appetisers, soups, salads, and main courses. There is also a lounge area where you can order various beverages. For those who prefer a quick bite, a full Tim Hortons café also operates in this zone.

Passengers with special dietary needs, such as vegetarian or gluten-free dishes, are advised to speak with the staff at the Skyway restaurant, who can typically suggest suitable options. As for prices, they correspond to the standard level for airports: from budget-friendly coffee at Tim Hortons to a full meal at the restaurant at average prices. Opening hours are usually aligned with the flight schedule — they open early in the morning and serve passengers until the last departure.

Thus, if you are short on time, the best choice would be one of the Tim Hortons branches. If you wish to relax and have a substantial meal before your flight, head to the Skyway Restaurant & Lounge, where a comfortable atmosphere and a varied menu await you.

To ensure your journey through Regina International Airport (YQR) goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these helpful tips. Although this airport is quite compact and convenient, proper preparation is always beneficial.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within Canada, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 90 minutes to 2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to arrive 3 hours in advance. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website and save the boarding pass on your phone. This will allow you to proceed directly to baggage drop or security screening if you are travelling light.

Security Screening and Hand Luggage. Security lines at Regina Airport are usually not too long, but delays are possible during peak hours. Prepare in advance: place liquids (in containers not exceeding 100 ml) in a transparent bag, and be ready to remove laptops and other large electronics from your bag. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in hand luggage. Always check the current rules on the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) website.

Seat Selection and Connections. If the airline allows seat selection, consider your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat provides more legroom and the freedom to stand up easily. Passengers with short connections are advised to choose seats in the front of the cabin to disembark faster. The airport is small, so finding the right gate for a connecting flight will not be difficult, but always keep an eye on the information screens.

Customs Control. If you are arriving from another country, you will need to pass through customs and border control. Have your passport and completed declaration ready (many Canadian airports use special kiosks for this). Answer the officer's questions clearly and truthfully, and the procedure will be quick.

Savings and Flight Delays. To save money, book parking online in advance — this is often cheaper than paying on-site. Bring an empty reusable water bottle, which can be filled after passing security, and some light snacks. In the event of a flight delay, contact your airline representative to find out about your rights to compensation (for example, food vouchers). While waiting, you can use the free Wi-Fi, visit one of the cafés, or browse the shops in the terminal.