Flying out of Waterloo on March Break? You need to read this

NEWS RELEASE
REGION OF WATERLOO AIRPORT
************************
The Region of Waterloo Airport is gearing up for March Break, one of the busiest times for travel. This year, travellers are asked to allow for extra time to arrive at the airport due to potential traffic delays along Fountain Street at the main entrance. A CUPE Local 1656 picket line may be present, with vehicles being stopped to receive information on the strike.  

"We look forward to welcoming March Break travellers to the airport over the next week,” said Mathieu Goetzke, Acting Chief Administrative Officer, Region of Waterloo. “YKF continues to operate as usual, with trained, qualified and dedicated personnel working 24/7. This ensures all Transport Canada requirements are being met and airport safety continues to be our highest priority.”  

While there is no anticipated impact to flight schedules, it is always recommended that passengers check with their airline before all flights.  

More information and frequently asked questions about travelling to YKF during March Break can be found at: www.waterlooairport.ca/strikeupdates

Regardless of your travel destination, planning ahead always ensures a smooth journey. YKF have compiled these travel tips to help travellers spend less time in line and more time relaxing before their flight: 

Before You Travel: 

• Check Your Flight Status with your airline before leaving for the airport, check-in online and sign up for flight notifications.  
• Arrive Early and allow extra time to account for delays you may experience at the airport entrance due to the CUPE Local 1656 picket line. Make sure you follow recommended arrival times by your airline and allow extra time for any traffic delays.  
• Please Stay Patient as there may be traffic delays along Fountain Street as you approach the airport main entrance. 
• Prepare Your Documents including government issued identification, passport, boarding pass, and any necessary visas or travel documents required. 

 Pack Smart: 

• Check Baggage Limits with your airline for carry-on and checked baggage size and weight restrictions to avoid extra fees.  
• 100ml Rule applies to anything you can pour, spread or spray which must be in a container 100ml or smaller, and placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag. Each passenger can take one 1L bag with some exceptions for items for children under two and prescribed or essential medication. 
• Keep Electronics Accessible as you may need to remove laptops and large electronics for inspection, during security screening. 
• Entertain Kids by packing small games or books to keep them occupied while you wait.

At the Airport: 

• Speed Security by wearing easy-to-remove shoes, avoiding excessive jewelry, knowing what you can bring onboard, and having your identification and boarding pass ready at the checkpoint.  
• Fuel Up before you board with YKF’s own Jetstream coffee or beer and a bite from Stockyards @ YKF menu, fueled by local growers and suppliers. 
• Relax and enjoy one of our ArtYKF installations featuring local, internationally renowned artists. 
• Recharge your devices at a seat-bank charging station to stay powered up for flight updates and entertainment. 

With regard to the CUPE Local 1656 strike, additional information can be found on the Region of Waterloo strike updates webpage, on our social media channels (@FlyYKF, @RegionofWaterloo) and by calling the Service First Contact Centre at 519-575-4400. 

The Region remains available to resume negotiations to reach an agreement that is competitive for CUPE Local 1656 staff and affordable for residents.  

The Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF) is a full-service facility that supports commercial, corporate and general aviation. YKF is owned and operated by the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, Ontario (Canada). For more information visit waterlooairport.ca. 

************************