Montreal, nestled in Quebec, is a dynamic metropolis celebrated for its vibrant culture, thriving business sector, and world-renowned cuisine. As Canada’s second-largest city, it welcomes global travelers year-round, making a clear grasp of airport infrastructure vital for efficient journeys.
How many airports are in Montreal? This bustling city boasts two primary gateways: Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and Montréal–Mirabel International Airport, each offering domestic, transborder, and international flights. For an elevated experience, a luxury chauffeur service in Montreal or private driver Montreal ensures seamless airport transfers, reflecting the city’s commitment to excellence.
Montreal is served by two primary airports: the bustling Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) and the smaller Montréal Saint-Hubert Longueuil Airport (YHU). YUL is the city’s main hub, offering extensive domestic and international routes, while YHU focuses on regional operations and general aviation needs.
Montréal-Mirabel International Airport (YMX) opened in 1975 and was initially envisioned as Montreal’s premier gateway. It was eared for vast international traffic. However, due to shifting demand and financial constraints, its passenger services were eventually relocated to YUL. Today, Mirabel’s runways serve primarily cargo flights, aerospace facilities, and specialized aviation services.
Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) is the principal air gateway for Quebec’s largest city. Renowned for its strategic location 20 kilometers from downtown, YUL handles millions of passengers annually and offers access to Montreal’s business centers. Named in tribute to Canada’s former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau, it is recognized for its advanced design, streamlined customs processes, modern terminals, and extensive connections.
Its infrastructure includes dining, shopping, and VIP lounges, reflecting Montreal’s fusion of convenience and sophistication. Consistently ranking as one of the nation’s busiest airports, YUL shapes vital links with global hubs across Europe and the United States. Cargo operations further boost economic ties, highlighting YUL’s influence on trade. It remains essential for tourism and commerce throughout the region.
The answer for travelers asking, “What is the main airport in Montreal?” is clear: YUL stands as the city’s indispensable international hub, uniting executives, tourists, and locals beneath its well-connected network.
Montreal has a second airport, Montreal Saint-Hubert Longueuil Airport (YHU), which is located on the South Shore and offers quick access to the city. This smaller facility caters to unique aviation needs.
YHU primarily handles regional flights, private aviation, and cargo services, supporting local industries and smaller airlines. Its efficient operations and shorter wait times appeal to businesses seeking swift, hassle-free travel.
With strategic growth plans, YHU aims to expand its passenger and cargo capacities, attracting new routes and partnerships. Continued investment underscores its evolving role as a valuable complement to Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport.
While Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) is famed for global connections, it also manages robust domestic operations. Travelers can easily reach major Canadian cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary through YUL’s extensive network. Its facilities handle both international and local flights, positioning YUL as Montreal’s leading aviation hub.
Meanwhile, Montréal Saint-Hubert Longueuil Airport (YHU) focuses on regional air travel within Quebec and nearby provinces. With fewer crowds and streamlined services, YHU appeals to smaller carriers, private charters, and business flyers. Though YUL boasts a broader range of routes, YHU’s niche offerings complement Montreal’s overall domestic connectivity.
Montréal-Mirabel International Airport (YMX) is located about 50 kilometers northwest of downtown. Designed in the late 1960s, it was intended to become a cutting-edge aviation hub with expansive facilities and room for future growth. Today, it stands as a testament to Montreal’s ambitious airport development plans, which unfolded several decades ago.
Opened in 1975, Mirabel was intended to replace the older Dorval Airport (now YUL) as the city’s principal gateway. However, issues such as its remote location, shifts in travel demand, and incomplete infrastructure led to dwindling passenger traffic. By 2004, Mirabel had ended most commercial flight operations and had ceased serving regular passenger routes.
Due to its expansive runways and spacious facilities, YMX is currently a specialized center for cargo flights, aerospace manufacturing, and even film production. As a cargo and industrial hub, Mirabel continues to play a role in Montreal’s aviation landscape, albeit far from its original grand aspirations.
Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) is the clear choice for most travelers. With its extensive domestic and international connections, YUL offers numerous airlines, direct flights, and modern facilities. Situated about 20 kilometers from downtown, it provides straightforward access to Montreal’s business district, cultural hubs, and major attractions.
By contrast, Montréal Saint-Hubert Longueuil Airport (YHU) focuses on regional flights and smaller aircraft operations. Its passenger services remain limited, making it less practical for those seeking a wide range of travel options. When deciding between YUL and YHU, consider flight availability, proximity, and convenience of airport and hotel transfers to ensure a smooth, hassle-free trip.
Located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the heart of Montreal, Trudeau Airport (YUL) is conveniently close to key business and cultural districts. A typical drive into downtown takes around 25 to 30 minutes, making YUL a practical hub for both corporate travelers and vacationers seeking swift city access.
Various transportation options cater to different needs. Taxis and rideshares provide door-to-door service, while the STM 747 Express Bus runs frequently between the airport and central Montreal. A planned REM train service promises even quicker connections in the future. Car rentals are available on-site, and ample parking ensures flexibility for those driving themselves. If you’re looking for private chauffeur services, Black City Cars always gets it right!
Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) is a prominent global travel hub, offering diverse direct flights to key cities across multiple continents. Its extensive network connects Montreal to both bustling business centers and popular vacation spots, making international travel straightforward and convenient. Below is a list of major direct flight destinations from YUL:
Montreal offers budget-conscious travelers options. Low-cost airlines operate from both Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) and Montréal Saint-Hubert Longueuil Airport (YHU). YHU serves select regional routes with smaller carriers, catering primarily to domestic and short-haul travelers seeking affordable airfare.
However, YUL remains the main hub for budget-friendly international and domestic flights. Airlines like Air Transat and Flair Airlines offer low-cost options to popular destinations in North America, the Caribbean, and Europe. With a wider range of routes, modern facilities, and better connectivity, YUL is the preferred choice for most budget travelers looking for affordable yet convenient air travel.
Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) offers convenient public transportation options. The STM 747 Express Bus provides 24/7 service between YUL and downtown Montreal, making it an affordable and reliable choice for travelers. The upcoming REM light rail system will further enhance airport connectivity, offering a fast and efficient link to the city. For those preferring private transport, taxis, Ubers, and rental cars are readily available.
Montréal Saint-Hubert Longueuil Airport (YHU) has more limited public transit options. While some local buses serve the area, YHU is primarily accessible by car or taxi, which makes it less convenient for travelers who rely on public transportation.
Montreal is served by two operational airports: Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) and Montréal Saint-Hubert Longueuil Airport (YHU). YUL remains the primary choice for most travelers, offering extensive domestic and international connections, while YHU serves regional flights and private aviation.
YUL is the best option for international and long-haul travel, whereas YHU may be suitable for select regional routes. Future developments, including YHU’s potential expansion and the REM light rail project at YUL, will further enhance accessibility. As Montreal’s air travel infrastructure continues to evolve, both airports play key roles in meeting diverse passenger needs.
