Added security precautions at Calgary airport amid influx of travellers to G7
Canadians appear on a "YYC" sign at Calgary International Airport in Calgary, Alta., Monday, Oct. 10, 2022. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh)
Calgarians can expect to see an influx of visitors when the G7 Summit is held later this month.
Though the international event will be held in nearby Kananaskis, Calgary will serve as the entry point for many travellers.
'We're preparing for an exceptionally busy summer ahead,' said Chris Miles, chief operating officer for the Calgary Airport Authority, at a Tuesday news conference.
The YYC Calgary International Airport will see thousands of people pass through during the 2025 G7 Summit – which runs from June 15 to 17 – followed by the 2025 Rotary International Convention from June 21 to 25 and the 2025 Calgary Stampede from July 4 to 13.
Miles says they expect the events will help contribute to a record-breaking number of travellers this summer – an estimated 5.8 million, with an average of 67,000 people per day.
Increased airport security during G7
Miles says there will be an increased security presence at the airport before, during and after the G7 Summit.
'There will be absolutely zero tolerance for unattended vehicles on the curb,' Miles said. 'So that is definitely a security consideration we have at the airport, and it's a policy that we have in place all the time, but especially during events such as the G7. There will be an enhanced enforcement – and the enforcement will be swift.'
Miles said there will be road closures in and around the airport, but travellers and staff working at the airport will still be able to access the building.
'There will be no stopping on our perimeter roads, and the airport tunnel will be closed June 15 to June 18 to support G7 activities,' he added.
Miles said travellers will also see an increased police presence at the airport to make sure things go smoothly.
'And their sole mission is the security of the event,' he said. 'We have a dedicated Calgary Police Service at the airport. What you will see during the G7 is a very visible presence on top of that. You will see officers walking around the terminal, you will see officers in and around the perimeter of the airport.'
Miles said the number of flights coming in hasn't really changed, but the ones arriving are 'very full.'
'The heads of state come in on their private aircraft, and then the rest of the delegation comes through the terminal.'
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