Ottawa MacDonald-Cartier International Airport is located approximately 10km (6 miles) from downtown Ottawa, Canada's capital. The airport opened a new terminal building in October 2003 that features three separate, easy-to-navigate levels for check-in, security, and arrivals; a four-level parking structure; self-service check-in kiosks; and improved baggage facilities.

The structural steel of the new terminal is reminiscent of an airport hangar, but the abundant natural light and water features throughout the terminal representing the meeting of the region's three rivers make it an aesthetically pleasing space. The airport is served by over 15 airlines offering flights throughout Canada and the U.S. Air Canada is the dominant airline offering numerous daily, nonstop flights to major Canadian and U.S. cities in addition to a direct flight to London's Heathrow Airport.