Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Smart airport parking choices can save Ottawa travellers hundreds of dollars on a single trip - if you know where to look and book ahead.
Ottawa airport parking 2025 offers multiple options from covered parkade convenience to budget economy lots, with prices ranging from $14 to $35 per day. Whether you’re catching a quick business flight or heading out for a two-week vacation, understanding your options at Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) can significantly impact your travel budget. This guide covers parking options, current rates, money-saving strategies, and alternatives to driving yourself.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Ottawa airport offers covered parkade ($25-35/day), economy lot ($14-18/day), and valet service. Book online for discounts. For trips over 5 days, consider off-site lots or rideshare. The cell phone lot is free for pickup waiting.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 🅿️ Parkade | $25-$35/day (covered, closest) |
| 🚗 Economy Lot | $14-$18/day (shuttle required) |
| 🎫 Valet | $38-$45/day (premium service) |
| 📱 Cell Phone Lot | FREE (30 min max) |
| 💰 Online Discount | 10-20% off pre-booking |
| 🚌 Shuttle | Free to/from economy lot |
Ottawa Airport Parking Overview
Ottawa airport offers multiple parking options for every budget
Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) provides several parking options managed by the Ottawa International Airport Authority.
Parking Options Summary
| Option | Distance | Daily Rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parkade | Steps away | $25-$35 | Short trips, convenience |
| Economy Lot | 5 min shuttle | $14-$18 | Longer trips, budget |
| Valet | Door service | $38-$45 | Premium experience |
| Cell Phone Lot | 2 min drive | FREE | Picking up passengers |
Key Information
Airport address: 1000 Airport Parkway Private, Ottawa, ON K1V 9B4
Parking customer service:
- Phone: 613-248-2000
- Online: yow.ca/parking
Hours:
- Lots open 24/7
- Payment machines always available
- Customer service: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Parkade (Covered Garage)
The parkade offers covered, convenient parking steps from the terminal
The Parkade is the most convenient option, located directly across from the terminal.
Parkade Features
Convenience:
- Covered parking (no snow, ice, sun)
- 3-minute walk to terminal
- Multiple floors with elevators
- Well-lit and secure
- 24/7 access
Capacity:
- 2,600+ spaces
- Height clearance: 6’6” (2m)
- Accessible spots available
- Electric vehicle charging stations
Parkade Rates
| Duration | Rate |
|---|---|
| 0-30 minutes | Free |
| 30 min - 1 hour | $6 |
| 1-2 hours | $9 |
| 2-3 hours | $12 |
| 3-24 hours (daily max) | $28 |
| Weekly max | $168 |
Rates approximate - check yow.ca for current pricing
Parkade Tips
Save money:
- Book online for 10-15% discount
- Exit within 30 minutes if just dropping off
- Consider economy for trips over 3 days
Practical tips:
- Note your level and section (take a photo)
- Arrive early for best spots on lower levels
- Keep your ticket safe - lost tickets are expensive
Economy Lot
The economy lot offers significant savings for longer trips
The Economy Lot is the budget-friendly option for travellers on longer trips.
Economy Lot Features
Location:
- About 2 km from terminal
- Free shuttle service (5-10 min ride)
- Shuttles run every 5-10 minutes
- Outdoor uncovered lot
Facilities:
- Well-lit with security patrols
- Covered shuttle waiting areas
- Snow clearing in winter
- Accessible parking available
Economy Lot Rates
| Duration | Rate |
|---|---|
| Daily rate | $16 |
| Weekly rate | $96 |
| Monthly rate | ~$300 |
Book online for additional discounts
Shuttle Information
Schedule:
- First shuttle: 4:00 AM
- Last shuttle: 12:30 AM
- Frequency: Every 5-10 minutes
- Wait under covered shelter
Shuttle tips:
- Allow 15-20 extra minutes for shuttle
- Shuttles run on schedule, rarely wait
- Drop-off directly at terminal door
- Pick-up at designated shuttle area
Economy Lot Tips
Best for:
- Trips of 4+ days
- Budget-conscious travellers
- Those with flexible time
Winter considerations:
- Cars exposed to elements
- Allow extra time for snow
- Consider remote start or winter prep
- Shuttle shelters are heated
Valet Parking
Valet parking offers premium convenience for busy travellers
Valet parking provides the ultimate convenience for travellers who value time over money.
Valet Service Details
How it works:
- Drive to terminal departure level
- Hand keys to valet attendant
- Receive claim ticket
- Your car is parked for you
- Call when landed for retrieval
- Car brought to arrivals
Benefits:
- No parking, no shuttle
- Car is waiting when you land
- Premium covered parking location
- Vehicle inspection upon return
Valet Rates
| Duration | Rate |
|---|---|
| Daily rate | $40-$45 |
| Weekly rate | $240-$280 |
Valet Tips
Best for:
- Business travellers
- Rushed departures
- Travellers with heavy luggage
- Special occasions
How to book:
- Reserve online for best rates
- Or drive up and request service
- Call ahead for busy periods
Cell Phone Waiting Lot
The free cell phone lot is perfect for picking up arriving passengers
The Cell Phone Lot is a free waiting area for those picking up passengers.
Cell Phone Lot Details
Location:
- Clearly signed on airport access road
- About 2 minutes from terminal
- Pull-through spots available
Rules:
- Free parking up to 30 minutes
- Driver must stay with vehicle
- No overnight parking
- Leave when passenger texts they’re ready
Using the Cell Phone Lot
Strategy:
- Tell arriving passenger to text when bags claimed
- Wait in lot until notified
- Drive to arrivals (2 minutes)
- Meet at designated pickup point
Benefits:
- Completely free
- No circling the terminal
- Reduces arrivals congestion
- Relaxed waiting experience
Long-Term Parking Tips
Save money on extended trips with these strategies
Extended trips require smart parking strategies.
Break-Even Analysis
When each option makes sense:
| Trip Length | Best Option | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 days | Parkade | $28-$56 |
| 3-5 days | Economy (or Rideshare) | $48-$80 |
| 6-10 days | Economy or Off-site | $96-$160 |
| 10+ days | Off-site or Rideshare | $100-$200+ |
Money-Saving Strategies
Book online:
- 10-20% discount for advance booking
- Lock in rates during busy periods
- Flexible cancellation usually available
Compare alternatives:
- Rideshare both ways might be cheaper (trips 5+ days)
- Off-site lots offer discounts
- Park and fly hotel packages
Loyalty programs:
- Sign up for airport parking rewards
- Accumulate points for free parking
- Watch for promotional offers
Pre-Book & Save Money
Booking online saves money and guarantees your spot
Pre-booking your parking is the easiest way to save.
How to Pre-Book
Online booking:
- Visit yow.ca/parking
- Enter travel dates and times
- Select parking option
- Apply any promo codes
- Pay and receive confirmation
- Show confirmation at entry
Pre-Booking Benefits
- Savings: 10-20% off drive-up rates
- Guaranteed spot: Especially during holidays
- Budgeting: Know cost upfront
- Speed: Scan and enter quickly
Finding Discounts
Where to look:
- Airport website promotions
- Email newsletter signup
- Credit card partnerships
- CAA/AAA member discounts
- Airline loyalty program offers
- Corporate rate programs
Park and Fly Hotel Packages
Park and fly packages combine hotel stays with parking
Nearby hotels offer packages that include extended parking.
How Park and Fly Works
Typical package:
- One night hotel stay
- Extended parking (7-14 days)
- Free shuttle to/from airport
- Total cost often less than parking alone
Participating Hotels
Near Ottawa Airport:
Days Inn Ottawa Airport
- Walking distance to terminal
- Park and fly packages available
- Basic accommodations
Holiday Inn Express Ottawa Airport
- Shuttle service
- Package deals
- Modern amenities
Hampton Inn Ottawa Airport
- Reliable chain
- Parking packages
- Continental breakfast
Comparing Costs
Example 10-day trip:
- Economy lot: ~$160
- Park and fly package: ~$120-$150
- Savings: $10-$40 plus hotel night
Best for:
- Early morning flights
- Trips of 7+ days
- Those living far from airport
- Travellers wanting pre-flight rest
Off-Site Parking Alternatives
Off-site lots can offer significant savings
Private lots near the airport compete with official parking.
Off-Site Options
Park’N Fly Ottawa
- Established brand
- Free shuttle service
- Online booking discounts
- Rates competitive with economy lot
Other off-site lots:
- Check Google Maps for options
- Read reviews carefully
- Confirm shuttle frequency
- Verify security measures
Off-Site Considerations
Pros:
- Often 20-30% cheaper
- Competition drives prices down
- Loyalty programs available
- Some offer extras (car wash, etc.)
Cons:
- Shuttle wait times vary
- Further from terminal
- Less oversight than airport
- Quality varies significantly
Choosing Off-Site
Check for:
- Secure, fenced lot
- 24-hour security/cameras
- Covered options available
- Reliable shuttle frequency
- Good online reviews
- Easy booking/payment
Ride Services (Uber, Lyft, Taxi)
Rideshare can be cheaper than parking for longer trips
Sometimes not driving yourself is the smartest choice.
Rideshare at Ottawa Airport
Uber/Lyft pickup:
- Designated area at arrivals
- Request ride from app
- Short walk to pickup zone
- Typical fare downtown: $25-$40
Uber/Lyft dropoff:
- Any departures door
- Typical fare from downtown: $25-$40
When Rideshare Wins
Cost comparison (round trip):
- Rideshare: $50-$80 total
- Economy 10 days: $160
- Rideshare saves: $80+
Best for:
- Solo travellers
- Trips longer than 5 days
- Those without car access
- Avoiding winter car issues
Taxi Services
Airport taxis:
- Fixed rates to many zones
- Available at taxi stand
- No app needed
- Slightly higher than rideshare
Typical fixed fares:
- Downtown Ottawa: $35-$40
- Kanata: $50-$55
- Orleans: $45-$50
Public Transit to Airport
OC Transpo provides affordable airport access
OC Transpo connects the airport to Ottawa’s transit network.
Route 97 Airport
Service details:
- Connects to Hurdman LRT station
- Runs approximately every 15-30 minutes
- Travel time: 25-35 minutes from Hurdman
- Regular fare applies ($3.75 single)
Schedule:
- First bus: ~5:00 AM
- Last bus: ~12:00 AM
- Reduced frequency evenings/weekends
Using Transit
From downtown:
- Take O-Train to Hurdman Station
- Transfer to Route 97
- Total time: 45-60 minutes
- Total cost: One fare (~$3.75)
Pros and cons:
- Cheapest option by far
- No parking worries
- But: luggage management challenging
- But: schedule constraints
Picking Up Passengers
Know the options for picking up arriving passengers
Multiple options for meeting arriving passengers.
Pickup Locations
Arrivals curbside:
- Free for active loading only
- No waiting - must circle if passenger not ready
- Enforcement is active
Cell phone lot:
- Free up to 30 minutes
- Wait until passenger texts
- 2 minutes to arrivals
Short-term parking:
- If meeting inside terminal
- First 30 minutes free in parkade
- Good for international arrivals (customs delays)
Pickup Tips
Best strategy:
- Track flight status online
- Wait in cell phone lot
- Drive to arrivals when contacted
- Have passenger walk to designated pickup
- Quick, free, no stress
For international arrivals:
- Allow extra time for customs
- Consider short-term parking
- Meet inside if needed
FAQ
Q: How much is parking at Ottawa airport?
Ottawa airport parking ranges from $16/day (economy lot) to $28/day (parkade) to $40+/day (valet). Online pre-booking offers 10-20% discounts. The cell phone waiting lot is free for up to 30 minutes.
Q: What is the cheapest parking at Ottawa airport?
The economy lot is cheapest at around $16/day. For trips over 5-7 days, rideshare both ways may be cheaper. Park and fly hotel packages can also beat parking costs while including a hotel night.
Q: Is there free parking at Ottawa airport?
The cell phone waiting lot is free for up to 30 minutes (driver must stay with vehicle). The parkade and economy lot are free for the first 30 minutes, allowing quick drop-offs. There is no free long-term parking.
Q: How does the airport shuttle work?
Free shuttles run between the economy lot and terminal every 5-10 minutes from 4:00 AM to 12:30 AM. Look for covered shuttle shelters in the lot. The ride takes about 5-10 minutes.
Q: Should I book airport parking in advance?
Yes, booking online typically saves 10-20% and guarantees a spot during busy periods like holidays. Most reservations offer free cancellation if plans change.
Q: Is there Uber at Ottawa airport?
Yes, Uber and Lyft operate at Ottawa airport. Pickup is at a designated area near arrivals. Typical fare to downtown Ottawa is $25-$40. It can be cheaper than parking for trips over 5 days.
Q: Where is the cell phone lot at Ottawa airport?
The cell phone lot is located on the airport access road, clearly signed before you reach the terminal. It’s about 2 minutes drive from the arrivals pickup area. Waiting is free for up to 30 minutes.
Q: Can I park overnight at Ottawa airport?
Yes, both the parkade and economy lot accept overnight and long-term parking. Rates are charged daily. For extended trips, the economy lot is more economical than the parkade.
Q: Is there covered parking at Ottawa airport?
Yes, the parkade offers covered parking directly across from the terminal. It protects vehicles from snow, ice, and sun. Daily rates are higher than the uncovered economy lot.
Q: How early should I arrive for parking at Ottawa airport?
For the parkade, arrive 15-20 minutes before you’d normally need to. For the economy lot, add 25-30 minutes for shuttle time. During holidays, allow extra time for potentially full lots.
Q: Are there electric vehicle chargers at Ottawa airport?
Yes, the parkade has electric vehicle charging stations. Check availability and any associated fees at yow.ca or the airport’s parking services.
Q: What happens if I lose my parking ticket?
Lost tickets result in a maximum daily rate charge for the period since the lot opened that day. Keep your ticket safe - take a photo as backup. Contact parking services for assistance.
Final Summary
Ottawa airport parking offers options for every budget and travel style. The parkade provides ultimate convenience at premium prices, while the economy lot saves significant money for longer trips. Smart travellers book online for discounts and consider alternatives like rideshare for extended vacations.
Key takeaways:
- Parkade: Best for trips 1-3 days, convenience priority
- Economy: Best for trips 4+ days, budget priority
- Pre-book: Save 10-20% booking online
- Consider rideshare: Often cheaper for trips 5+ days
- Cell phone lot: Free waiting for pickups
Plan your parking strategy before you travel, and you’ll start your trip stress-free with money still in your pocket.
Sources: Ottawa International Airport, Ottawa Airport Parking, OC Transpo
