Saskatoon Airport Mini Guide
Who Goes to Saskatoon?
Saskatoon is a big city and the capital of the Canadian province of Saskatchewan. It is completely surrounded by vast fields of wheat, called the prairie and otherwise known as the ‘breadbasket of Canada’. Saskatoon isn’t really thought of as a tourist destination as there’s not a lot to do there or in the surrounding countryside. Visitors tend to be those coming to see friends and family. However, the warm summer weather experienced there means that many festivals can be enjoyed during the long summer days. These include jazz festivals, art festivals and a week-long celebration of Shakespeare.
How do I get to Saskatoon?
Three miles from Saskatoon is John G Diefenbaker Airport, an international airport that serves flights to the
US, Mexico and the Caribbean. All flights from outside this region will require a stopover in either
Chicago or
Toronto before continuing the journey. Transport from the airport into Saskatoon is by local bus on route 11, taxi or hire car.
What is the Airport Like?
Originally built in the seventies, the main terminal and its more recently built sister terminal were renovated again in 2005. Today, the airport still looks a little dated inside although it has a reasonable range of facilities for an airport of its size. Repair of its runway is currently underway together with improvements of the road link into the city.
What Should I do When I Arrive at the Airport?
The airport is split into a large domestic terminal serving flights from Canada and the US and a smaller international terminal handles flights from
Mexico and the Caribbean. Domestic arrivals simply need to pass through security whilst international ones will need to go through customs and immigration. In both terminals, there’s an information desk should you need help finding your way around whilst a currency exchange facility exists in the international terminal and ATMs are found across the airport.
Car rental is sorted quickly and easily with the desks of the companies in the arrivals hall. The cars are parked immediately outside the terminal and so you’ll find you will soon be on your way. If taking public transport, look out for the bus route 11 that will take you into the city via the university campus.
What are Facilities Like for Departing Passengers?
There is plenty to keep you entertained whilst waiting for your flight. The airport hosts a museum chronicling 75 years of aviation in the area and a children’s play area to stop little ones getting bored. Take a look also at the Blairmore Ring, a memorial to the thousands of workers in the potash mines of Saskatchewan. Shopping is limited but complemented with a gift shop focusing on quality products made in the province and a duty free outlet. Eating at the airport is a good experience with a typical Canadian grill-style restaurant, cafes and snack bars. Complementary Wi-Fi is available across the airport for you to access the internet in the final minutes before your flight.