New sector for departures to the United States
Since 2000, Aéroports de Montréal (ADM) has invested nearly $1.5 billion in Montréal–Trudeau’s infrastructures and facilities. The terminal, which has been expanded and modernized, now meets the industry’s highest standards
On August 19, 2009, the addition of another important element — the new sector for departures to the United States — completed the terminal’s transformation. Passengers on scheduled and charter “transborder” flights are now able to check in and complete U.S. security and customs formalities more efficiently, in a larger and more user-friendly space.
Featuring two levels — the lower for baggage handling and the upper for passengers — the new sector is adjacent to the existing transborder jetty: once passengers have completed their departure formalities, they head directly to the centre of the jetty after passing through the duty-free shop. The walking distance to the boarding gates is significantly reduced.
In addition to the duty-free shop, several new businesses will be opening in the new transborder sector, including a restaurant, two currency exchange offices, two newsstands and “one-stop shop.”
The new totally automated sorting room for outbound baggage is among the most sophisticated in the world. An ingenious system allows U.S. customs officers to recall certain luggage for secondary inspection, in compliance with new security requirements.
A new hotel, built right above the new U.S. departures sector, is now open for business. This member of the Marriott chain, featuring 279 first-class rooms, offers the full range of services.
The building also houses an underground parking lot with nearly 500 spaces on three levels, as well as an area for the future rail-shuttle station and Aéroports de Montréal administrative offices.
Vehicles are able to access the transborder departures sector via an elevated ramp created as an extension of the existing drop-off lane for departing passengers. The building’s all-glass façade features five entrances and the entire length of the drop-off zone is protected by a canopy.
In addition, a glassed-in pedestrian passageway connects the new building directly to the multi-level parking facility. The hotel has its own drop-off area accessible from the city, and the terminal and hotel lobby are linked via a mezzanine-level passage.
It is important to note that passengers arriving from United-States continue to follow the same pathway as before.
Video of the new sector for departures to the United States
Download the brochure "New sector for departures to the United States"
U.S. departures sector:
Total area (upper level): 18,122 m2
Traditional check-in counters: 48
Self-service check-in kiosks: 44 +18 with assistance
Security checkpoints: 8
Primary customs counters: 29
Duty-free shop: 697 m2
New restaurants and shops: 1437 m2
Baggage-handling room: 1,400 items/hour