Anyone who has driven Highway 16 in a January whiteout knows the distance to the airport is not really the distance. The same trip that takes 40 minutes in August can take a lot longer in February.
Plan for it to take longer
From Spruce Grove the airport is usually about 40 minutes away, from Stony Plain 45 to 50, and from Acheson about 35. In snow or freezing rain, add another 20 to 30 minutes at least. If it is a real storm, add more.
Check the roads before you leave
Look at the Alberta 511 road report before you head out, and again if you can while you are on the way. It takes a minute and it can save a lot of surprises.
Book the ride the day before
Early flights and storm days are the busiest times for airport rides. Booking ahead means a car is set aside for you, and you are not standing at the window at 4 a.m. hoping.
Dress for the curb, pack for where you are going
Wear the big coat and boots to the airport, even if you are headed somewhere warm. Keep a toque and gloves in your carry-on so you have them when you land back home. And leave a bit of room in the suitcase for the winter layers on the way back, because it is easy to forget how bulky they are.
Coming home in the dark
A late arrival in the middle of winter is the worst time to be working out how to get home. Book the ride back when you book the ride out, give us your flight number, and let us know if the flight changes.
Let someone else scrape the windshield
A cab means no scraping the car at 4 a.m., no icy parking lot and no week of parking fees. We drive to and from YEG every day from Spruce Grove, Stony Plain and Parkland County. Call or WhatsApp +1 780 935 3690.
A few quick questions
How much extra time should I allow in winter?
Add 20 to 30 minutes to the usual drive when there is snow or freezing rain, and more if the forecast is bad.
Will you still come if the roads are bad?
We will do our best to get to you. Tell us as soon as you know your driveway or road is a problem, and we will sort out the best plan.
Should I book the ride home before I fly?
Yes, with your flight number. Arriving in the dark in January is not the time to look for a ride.
Need a ride to Edmonton airport from Leduc, Spruce Grove or Stony Plain?
Call +1 780 935 3690Book onlineKeep reading
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