Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport Overview

Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (IATA: YUL, ICAO: CYUL) is the primary public international airport serving Montréal, Québec, and the surrounding regions. Located in the suburb of Dorval, approximately 20 kilometres west of downtown Montréal, YUL is one of Canada’s busiest airports. It is a central hub for transatlantic and North American travel, and a key gateway to French-speaking Canada.

General Information

  • Location: Dorval, Québec
  • Country: Canada
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • IATA Code: YUL
  • ICAO Code: CYUL
  • Elevation: 118 feet (36 metres)
  • Coordinates: 45°28′29″N 073°44′56″W
  • Timezone: UTC−5 (Eastern Standard Time) / UTC−4 (Daylight Saving Time)
  • Distance from City Centre: Approx. 20 km (12 miles) west of downtown Montréal
  • Website: www.admtl.com
  • Operator: Aéroports de Montréal (ADM)
  • Services: Scheduled international and domestic flights, cargo, charter, and general aviation

Airport Details

  • Runways: 3
  • Runway Designations and Lengths:
    • 06L/24R: 2,926 m (9,600 ft) – Asphalt
    • 06R/24L: 3,353 m (11,001 ft) – Asphalt
    • 10/28: 2,134 m (7,000 ft) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surfaces: Asphalt
  • Runway Strength: Suitable for all aircraft, including Code F (e.g. A380)
  • Fire Services: ICAO Category 10
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Aids: ILS CAT III, RNAV, VOR/DME, GPS
  • Customs and Immigration: Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) available 24/7
  • Aircraft Types: Narrow-body, wide-body, regional, and business jets
  • Terminals: Single terminal building divided into domestic, international, and transborder (U.S.) zones
  • Cargo Facilities: Dedicated cargo village with FedEx, UPS, DHL, and airfreight operators
  • Fuel: JET A-1 available via hydrant and bowser
  • FBOs: Skyservice Business Aviation, Signature Flight Support
  • Equipment: GSE, de-icing, lavatory, potable water, maintenance, hangars
  • Ground Services: Full commercial and general aviation handling

Flight Operations

  • Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international GA and charter operations
  • Permission Required: Yes, for non-scheduled foreign flights
  • Slots: Not required
  • Aircraft Types: All aircraft up to Code F
  • Alternate Airports:
    • YMX: Montréal–Mirabel International Airport (primarily cargo/GA)
    • YHU: Montréal Saint-Hubert Longueuil Airport (for business aviation)

Contact Information

Passenger Information

  • Immigration Requirements: Passport required; visa or eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) may be required
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration, visa/eTA as applicable
  • Transport Options: Taxis, ride-hailing (Uber), public buses (STM 747), car rentals
  • Nearby Accommodation:
    • Close to Airport: Sheraton Montréal Airport, Aloft, Marriott In-Terminal Hotel
    • City Centre: Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, Hôtel Bonaventure, Le Mount Stephen
  • Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD); major credit and debit cards accepted

Local Attractions

Old Montréal (Vieux-Montréal)

Historic district with cobbled streets, art galleries, cafés, and the Notre-Dame Basilica.

Mount Royal Park

City landmark offering panoramic views, nature trails, and seasonal activities.

Jean-Talon Market

One of North America’s largest public markets featuring local produce and global cuisine.

Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal

Premier fine arts museum housing international and Canadian collections.

The Underground City (RÉSO)

A network of underground walkways, shops, and metro stations is perfect for winter navigation.

Travel Tips

  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Summer (Jun–Aug): Warm weather and festivals
    • Autumn (Sep–Oct): Mild weather and fall foliage
  • Additional Notes:
    • U.S. Preclearance available for direct flights to the United States
    • Skyservice and Signature offer full VIP and executive handling for GA clients
    • French and English are both official languages; signage and announcements reflect both
    • Airport can be busy during holidays and significant events—early coordination is advised

Montréal–Trudeau International Airport is a dynamic hub offering premium connectivity between North America and Europe. It has excellent facilities for both commercial and private aviation travellers.