| IATA Code | YBG |
| ICAO Code | CYBG |
| City | Saguenay |
| Distance to centre | About 15 km |
| Status | International (seasonal), Domestic |
| Passengers per year | Over 100,000 |
| Schedule | Available on the official website |
Getting to Saguenay-Bagotville Airport (YBG) from the city of Saguenay is quite simple, as it is located just 20-25 kilometres from its main districts, such as Chicoutimi and Jonquière. The main methods of transportation are by road. A car trip from the city centre usually takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and your starting point.
Taxi or pre-booked transfer is the most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport. This is especially relevant for travellers with large luggage or those flying early in the morning or late at night. Several local taxi companies serve the airport. The estimated cost of a trip from the central districts of Saguenay to the airport is 45–60 Canadian Dollars (CAD). It is recommended to confirm the exact fare when ordering and to book a car in advance to guarantee transport availability at the required time.
Car rental is an excellent choice for those who value independence and plan to explore the picturesque Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region in Canada. Many major rental companies have counters directly inside the airport building. This allows you to collect keys upon arrival or, conversely, return the car immediately before departure, providing maximum flexibility in route planning.
It is important to note that direct public transport connections between the city and Saguenay-Bagotville Airport are very limited or completely absent. Standard city bus routes (STS) do not enter the airport territory, so tourists should not rely on this option as a dependable way to get to their flight.
For travellers arriving in their own or a rented vehicle, convenient parking is provided at the terminal. Both short-term and long-term parking options are available. The cost depends on the duration: short-term is charged by the hour, while long-term offers more favourable daily rates. It is a safe and practical way to leave your car during your absence, located just a few steps from the departure hall.
Saguenay-Bagotville Airport (YBG) is a compact and modern regional airport, the structure of which is simplified to the maximum for passenger convenience. Orienting yourself here is very easy, even if you are visiting for the first time.
The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves all flights — both domestic within Canada and seasonal international charters. Thanks to this, you will not have to worry about transferring between different buildings: all procedures from check-in to boarding take place in one location. The terminal layout is intuitive: check-in counters and baggage drop-off points are located at the entrance, followed by the security screening zone, behind which lies the waiting lounge with boarding gates.
The arrival and departure zones are physically separated but are located in close proximity to each other within the same building. The arrival zone includes baggage claim belts and customs control for international flights. The entire journey from the aircraft to the terminal exit takes mere minutes.
One of the main advantages of YBG airport is the speed of completing all formalities. Flight check-in and security screening usually take significantly less time than in major airports. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive 90 minutes before a domestic flight and 2-3 hours before an international one to pass all stages without rushing. Navigation through the terminal will not cause difficulties: there are clear signs everywhere, and the small size of the building allows you to quickly find the necessary facility, whether it be a café, restroom, or boarding gate.
The history of Saguenay-Bagotville Airport (YBG) is inextricably linked with the military aviation of Canada. Its foundation occurred at the height of World War II, in 1942, when it was established as a training base for the Royal Canadian Air Force under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. Initially, the facility was named RCAF Station Bagotville and played a key role in training pilots and crews for combat operations in Europe.
After the end of the war, the need for civil air connections in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region became obvious. In the 1950s, a decision was made to use the military base for civilian needs as well. The first civilian terminal was opened in 1957, marking the beginning of commercial passenger transport and transforming Bagotville into a dual-purpose airport — military and civilian.
Over the years, passenger traffic grew, and the old terminal ceased to cope with the load. This led to the necessity for significant improvements. A key stage of development was a large-scale reconstruction and expansion, completed in 2005. As a result, a modern, spacious, and functional passenger terminal was built, capable of serving the growing number of travellers and meeting modern standards of aviation safety and comfort.
One of the most interesting facts in the airport's history is its continuous and important role as one of the main bases of the Canadian Armed Forces (CFB Bagotville). Fighter squadrons are based here, and the base plays a strategic role in the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) system. Additionally, the airport is known for hosting the famous Bagotville International Air Show, which attracts thousands of spectators and showcases both military and civil aviation.
Saguenay-Bagotville Airport (YBG) is a modern and compact regional airport in Canada that offers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for your flight. Despite its small size, the terminal is thoughtfully designed to make your journey as pleasant as possible.
Before departure, passengers can have a snack at the café-restaurant, which serves hot meals, snacks, and beverages. There is also a small shop in the airport where you can purchase souvenirs, newspapers, and travel necessities. This is a convenient opportunity to buy a keepsake from your trip to the Saguenay region.
For passenger convenience, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for your flight. The waiting lounges are equipped with charging stations for mobile phones and other electronic devices. Although there are no dedicated VIP lounges in the airport, the general waiting areas are sufficiently comfortable and spacious.
ATMs for cash withdrawals are installed in the terminal building. A currency exchange office may not be available at this regional airport, so it is recommended to arrange currency exchange in advance. In case of necessity, passengers can be provided with basic first aid.
The airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility. There are ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated parking. Passengers requiring additional assistance are advised to notify their airline in advance. For travellers with small children, baby changing tables are provided in the restrooms.
There are no hotels on the airport territory itself, however, a wide selection of hotels and apartments can be found in nearby cities, including Saguenay. Specialized conference rooms are also not provided in the terminal, but the availability of free Wi-Fi allows for addressing work matters remotely.
Saguenay-Bagotville Airport (YBG) is a compact regional aviation hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited, but quite capable of satisfying basic traveller needs. The main and, essentially, the only place where you can have a snack is the restaurant-bar Le Pilote, located in the main terminal building.
The establishment operates as a café-restaurant and offers visitors both light snacks and more substantial meals. On the menu, you will find classic airport options: fresh sandwiches, salads, pastries, as well as hot dishes such as burgers, soups of the day, and omelettes. It is a great place to have a cup of coffee before departure or a full lunch while waiting for your flight. Sometimes you can find products from local producers of the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region here, such as craft beer, allowing for a brief acquaintance with local tastes.
The restaurant is located in the public zone (landside), before passing security control. This is convenient as it can be used by departing passengers as well as those seeing them off or meeting them. After passing security screening, there will be no further opportunities to purchase food, so please plan your time accordingly.
Regarding special dietary needs, choices may be extremely limited. While vegetarian sandwiches or salads may be present on the menu, finding certified gluten-free, Halal, or vegan dishes will be difficult. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you.
The price range at Le Pilote corresponds to average airport rates — slightly higher than in city establishments of Saguenay. The restaurant's operating hours are directly tied to the flight schedule: it opens a few hours before the first departure and closes after the last plane leaves. Thus, you can always count on hot coffee or food during the operational hours of the airport located in Canada.
To ensure your journey through the airport of Saguenay goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these helpful tips. A thoughtful approach will help save time, nerves, and money, making the start and end of your trip pleasant.
Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within Canada, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 3 hours. To avoid queues, complete online check-in on your airline's website, which usually opens 24 hours before departure. This will allow you to proceed directly to baggage drop or security screening if you are travelling with hand luggage only.
Security Screening and Hand Luggage. At the security checkpoint, be ready to remove laptops and other large electronics from your bag in advance. Remember the rule for carrying liquids: all must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. It is forbidden to take sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in hand luggage. Always keep documents, money, medication, and a portable charger with you in the cabin.
Seat Selection and Transfers. If you want to enjoy views of the picturesque Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region from above, choose a window seat. An aisle seat is suitable for those who value the ability to stand up freely and plan to leave the cabin quickly upon arrival. If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the transit airport.
Customs Control and Savings. When arriving from abroad, you will have to pass customs control. To speed up the process, prepare your passport and other travel documents in advance, and be ready to answer standard questions from the customs officer about the purpose of your visit. To save money, bring an empty water bottle (it can be filled after security) and light snacks. Also, check your airline's baggage allowance and fees in advance to avoid unexpected charges.
In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, the first thing to do is contact your airline's representative counter for the latest information. Inquire about your rights regarding meals or hotel accommodation depending on the reason and duration of the delay. It is always useful to have a book or downloaded movies with you to pass the waiting time.
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