Edmonton International Airport is the primary airport serving Alberta, Canada. It offers regular flights to cities across Canada, the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and Europe. Located 30 km south of downtown Edmonton, the airport has undergone significant transformations over the years. This article explores its history and development. More at iedmonton.net.
History and Growth of the Airport
Transport Canada acquired over 28 square kilometres of land on the opposite side of the city from the military airport to construct a new international airport. The construction was completed in 1960, with the first terminal being a hangar, which is now used by Summit Air.
In 1963, a passenger terminal was built in the International Style, characterized by functional, utilitarian design and minimalism. The departure area featured notable artwork, including the large mural Bush Pilot in Northern Skies, commissioned by the Canadian government in 1963 for $18,000 USD. By 2005, the mural’s value had risen to $750,000 USD. Today, this terminal is known as the North Terminal.
As Edmonton’s population grew, air traffic increased rapidly. By the 1970s, the airport was already experiencing heavy traffic. By 1980, Edmonton International Airport was serving two million passengers annually. However, this trend declined after 1995 due to an economic slowdown and the rising popularity of Edmonton City Centre Airport.
In 1998, the airport launched a major expansion project, “The 1998–2005 Redevelopment Plan.” This initiative included the construction of a new terminal, a central hall, an expanded apron, and a multi-level parking facility. The upgrades increased the airport’s passenger capacity to 5.5 million.
By 2013, the airport introduced seven new passenger gates, 14 boarding bridges, moving walkways, and an advanced baggage screening system. Additionally, the Renaissance Hotel was built near the airport to accommodate travelers.
The Airport’s Role During the Fort McMurray Wildfire
Edmonton International Airport played a crucial role during the 2016 Fort McMurray wildfire, one of the most devastating wildfires in Canadian history. The fire engulfed the community, forcing the evacuation of over 88,000 people.
During this crisis, the airport functioned as an aerial firefighting command centre and a medical evacuation hub. It also became a temporary shelter for evacuees. The airport’s emergency response centre operated for 112 consecutive hours, coordinating the arrival and departure of emergency flights.
Comfort and Amenities at the Airport
Edmonton International Airport offers exceptional services and facilities, including a wide variety of dining options, premium retail stores, a racetrack, and a casino.
A major highlight is the Premium Outlet Collection Edmonton International Airport, featuring discounted fashion from brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Under Armour, Kate Spade New York Outlet, Lacoste, H&M, and Nike. The outlet also houses a market, coffee shops, and locally crafted apparel stores. Visitors can enjoy live music, workshops, and a spacious food court for a relaxing pre-flight experience.
The airport is designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience, with striking architecture, impressive artwork, and vibrant live performances. One of its most remarkable features is the two-story “Living Wall”, an artistic installation composed of over 8,000 plants, creating a peaceful and visually stunning atmosphere.Edmonton International Airport has a rich history of growth and transformation, evolving into a modern, efficient, and passenger-friendly airport. It continues to enhance the travel experience, offering convenience, comfort, and world-class amenities for travelers worldwide.