Saint John Airport

Your acquaintance with the incredible tides of the Bay of Fundy and the natural beauty of New Brunswick begins right here. Saint John Airport is more than just a transport hub; it is a cozy and welcoming air haven where travel becomes easy and pleasant. Thanks to the absence of the hustle and bustle typical of large hubs and thoughtful logistics, you can avoid stress and immediately tune into the calm rhythm of a holiday on the Canadian coast.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of YSJ is its intimacy and efficiency. Passengers often note the high speed of completing all formalities: from baggage drop-off to security screening, it rarely takes much time here, allowing you to spend fewer precious minutes in queues. The compact terminal is designed so that it is impossible to get lost, and the path from the entrance to the boarding gate is intuitive and short.

In addition, the airport is famous for its friendly atmosphere. The staff here is known for their responsiveness and readiness to help, which creates a sense of home comfort, so rare for giant airports. For aviation enthusiasts, a pleasant bonus will be the opportunity to watch aircraft takeoffs and landings against the backdrop of picturesque New Brunswick landscapes directly from the departure lounge windows. It is an ideal starting point for both business trips and the beginning of an exciting vacation on the Atlantic coast.

For your convenience, we have collected all the necessary contact information for Saint John Airport (YSJ).

• Official Website: You can always find up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport rules on the official website — ysj.ca.
• Information Desk Phone: For general questions and inquiries, you can call +1 (506) 638-5555.
• Address: 4180 Loch Lomond Road, Saint John, New Brunswick, E2N 1L7, Canada.
• Email: For written inquiries, you can use the address fly@ysj.ca.
• Social Media: Follow airport news and updates on official pages on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.
• Lost and Found Information: If you lost items on board the aircraft, contact your airline first. For items lost within the airport terminal, please contact security or administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For most questions related to tickets, check-in, or special needs, you should contact the airline you are flying with directly. General information can be obtained by calling the airport information desk.

You can get to Saint John Airport (YSJ) from the city centre in several ways, suitable for any budget and travel style. The airport is located approximately 15 kilometres east of the centre of Saint John, and the trip usually does not take much time.

Public Transport. The most economical way to get to the airport is to use the services of the local bus company Saint John Transit. A special route connects the city centre with the airport, making it a convenient choice for travellers without a large amount of luggage. The bus ride will take about 40-50 minutes, but it is a great opportunity to save money. Be sure to check the current schedule on the carrier's website, as the frequency of trips may change.

Taxis and Transfers. This is the fastest and most comfortable way to get to the airport. The trip from downtown Saint John will take only 20-25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Taxis are always available in the city, and you can also order a car via a mobile app or by phone. This option is significantly more expensive than the bus but is ideal if you value your time or are travelling with family and bulky luggage. Pre-booked shuttles and private transfer services are also available.

Car Rental. If you plan to actively explore the province of New Brunswick, renting a car will be an excellent solution. You can rent a car at one of the rental agencies in the city and return it directly at the airport before departure. The road to the airport is simple and follows well-marked highways. This option provides maximum freedom of movement.

Airport Parking. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking zones are provided. Saint John Airport has both short-term parking (for quick drop-off or pick-up of passengers) and long-term parking, where you can leave your car for the duration of your entire trip. The cost depends on the duration of parking.

Saint John Airport (YSJ) is distinguished by its compactness and simple, intuitive structure, making it very convenient for passengers. You won't have to worry about long walks or complex maps — everything is located in one place.

Structure and Navigation

The airport consists of one main passenger terminal, which serves all domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, navigating here is extremely simple. Arrivals and departures zones are logically distributed across the building's levels:

• First Floor: Here you will find the arrivals area, baggage claim belts, flight check-in counters, and car rental offices. Upon arriving in Saint John, you immediately enter this part of the terminal.
• Second Floor: This is the departures zone. After checking in on the first floor, passengers go up here to pass through security screening and proceed to the boarding gates. A small but cozy departure lounge is also located here.

Completing Formalities

One of the main advantages of Saint John Airport is the speed of pre-flight procedures. Due to the low passenger traffic compared to large hubs, flight check-in and security screening usually pass quickly and without long queues. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 90 minutes before a domestic flight departure and 2-3 hours before an international one.

Recommendations for Passengers

It is practically impossible to get lost in Saint John Airport. All navigation is provided by clear signs and information boards. Since all services — from check-in to boarding gates — are within one building, you do not need to worry about transfers between terminals. This makes travelling through YSJ as comfortable as possible and eliminates unnecessary stress.

The history of Saint John Airport (YSJ) is a story of growth and development, reflecting the city's importance as an economic and tourism hub on the Atlantic coast of Canada. Officially, the airport was opened in 1952, replacing an old, less-equipped airfield. From the very beginning, it became a key link in the transport infrastructure of New Brunswick province, providing reliable air connections for residents and businesses.

A significant stage in the airport's development was the transfer of management from the federal government (Transport Canada) to the local non-profit organization Saint John Airport Inc. in 1997. This step allowed for more flexible and effective management of the facility, focusing on the needs of the region. Immediately after this, a large-scale reconstruction began: in the late 1990s and early 2000s, a new, modern terminal was built, which radically improved the quality of passenger service and increased the airport's throughput capacity.

One of the most memorable moments in the history of Saint John Airport is connected with the events of September 11, 2001. As part of "Operation Yellow Ribbon", the airport accepted several diverted transatlantic flights. The residents of the city warmly welcomed thousands of "stranded" passengers, providing them with shelter, food, and support, which became a shining example of Canadian hospitality in an emergency situation.

In subsequent years, the airport continued modernization. One of the key projects was the recent expansion of the main runway 05/23. This allowed for the acceptance of larger aircraft and opened prospects for launching long-haul flights, strengthening Saint John's status as an important air gateway for the region. Today, YSJ is a modern and efficient airport that not only serves passenger and cargo transport but also plays an important role in the economic life of the entire province.

Saint John Airport (YSJ) cares about the comfort of its passengers, offering a wide range of services and amenities. While waiting for your flight, you can have a tasty snack in one of the cafes or restaurants serving both light bites and full meals. In the shops within the terminal, you can purchase souvenirs to remember your trip, fresh press, or small items needed for the road.

For those for whom staying connected is important, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Numerous charging stations for electronic devices, located in the waiting lounges, will allow you not to worry about the battery level of your smartphone or laptop. Passengers preferring privacy and quiet can use the services of the enhanced comfort lounge to relax before the flight.

ATMs for cash withdrawal are installed within the terminal, and currency exchange points are also in operation. To ensure the safety and health of travellers, there is a medical point in the airport ready to provide first aid if necessary.

Saint John Airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: it is equipped with ramps, elevators, and special restrooms. Families with children will appreciate the presence of nursing rooms where one can take care of little ones in a calm and comfortable environment.

For business travellers, business services are provided, including the possibility of renting conference rooms for meetings. If you have an early departure or a long layover, it is very convenient to stay in one of the hotels located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. This allows you to rest and get to the terminal without rushing.

Despite its compact size, Saint John Airport (YSJ) offers travellers several cozy places where one can have a snack before departure or drink coffee while waiting for a flight. The main dining establishments are located both in the general area before security and in the sterile departure zone.

After Security (Airside) in the departure lounge, the airport's main restaurant, Vito's, is located. This establishment, part of a well-known local chain, offers a full menu with hot meals. Here you can order breakfast, a hearty lunch, or dinner. The menu features North American cuisine, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and even signature pizza. This is an ideal place if you have time for a leisurely meal before boarding. A counter offering a selection of beverages is also available here.

Before Security (Landside) in the main airport lobby, you will find the Maritime Brew Bar coffee shop. This is an excellent place for those who want to quickly drink high-quality coffee or tea or eat fresh pastries. Here you can also find ready-made sandwiches, salads, and other light snacks in a "grab-and-go" format. The cafe is accessible to departing passengers as well as those meeting and seeing off guests.

Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarians will be able to find options like salads or vegetable sandwiches. However, the choice for vegans or people with gluten intolerance may be limited, so it is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff, especially regarding Halal or specific dietary requirements. Prices in the airport establishments correspond to the average level for Canadian airports. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: cafes and restaurants open early in the morning and close after the departure of the last evening flight.

Travelling through Saint John Airport can be simple and comfortable if you prepare for it in advance. To avoid unnecessary stress, follow a few useful tips that will make your stay at the airport as pleasant as possible.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 90 minutes prior. Saint John Airport is not the largest, but during peak hours, queues for check-in and security can be longer. To save time, use online check-in, which most airlines open 24 hours before departure.

Security Screening: Be prepared in advance. Pack all liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on luggage in containers no larger than 100 ml and place them in a single transparent resealable bag. Large electronics, such as laptops and tablets, will need to be removed from your bag and placed in a separate tray for scanning.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane: To make the flight as comfortable as possible, pay attention to seat selection during check-in. Study the cabin layout of your aircraft on the airline's website in advance. Do you love photographing clouds and landscapes? Choose a window seat. Do you prefer to stand up freely and stretch your legs during the flight? Then an aisle seat will suit you. Seats in the front of the cabin usually allow for a quicker exit from the plane upon arrival, while those located over the wing are considered the zone with the least turbulence.

Carry-on Luggage: Besides restrictions on liquids, ensure there are no prohibited items in your carry-on: sharp objects (knives, scissors with blades longer than 6 cm), flammable substances, and other dangerous materials. Always keep valuable items, documents, medicines, and chargers in your carry-on luggage.

Customs Control: Upon arrival in Canada from another country, you will have to pass customs control. You will need to complete a declaration (often this can be done electronically at special kiosks) and answer questions from a Border Services Officer (CBSA). Keep your passport and other travel documents ready.

Connecting Passengers: If you have a connecting flight in Saint John, check with your airline whether you need to collect your luggage. For an international connection to a domestic flight, it is usually required to clear customs, collect baggage, and check it in again.

How to Save Money: To avoid extra spending, bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security at special water fountains. You can also bring light snacks from home. Free Wi-Fi is available at the airport, which will help save on mobile roaming charges.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information and instructions. In Canada, air passenger protection regulations apply, which may provide for compensation, provision of meals, or accommodation depending on the length of the delay. During this time, you can relax in the waiting lounges or visit the airport's cafes and shops.