Busiest travel days of the year at Ottawa airport this weekend

The Ottawa airport is reminding holiday passengers to be prepared and to plan in advance for the peak of the holiday travel rush this weekend.

The Ottawa airport is reminding holiday passengers to be prepared and to plan in advance for the peak of the holiday travel rush this weekend.

The airport said in a news release that Friday, Sunday and Monday will be the busiest days of the year, with most flights at or near capacity.

To make sure the experience stays peaceful and festive, the airport has curated a program with treats and musical performances to ease travellers' nerves.

The airport will bring back its holiday music program from Dec. 21 to 24. Returning artists include Maria Hawkins, Sing House Studies and the Maple Leaf Horn Quartet. Local artists Kaede Nguyen, the University of Ottawa Choir, Dickens Carolers and the Celebration Brass Quintet will also fill the airport with holiday classics and original songs.

"Surprise and delight" goodies will be offered to passengers and greeters on Dec. 23.

"Planning is key to smooth travel, as is preparing for the unexpected. Inclement weather and delays can impact flights, even during this magical time. Pack smart, arrive early, and don't forget to pack extra patience to make sure your journey is jolly," said Ottawa Airport Authority spokesperson Krista Kealey in a news release.

The airport is providing the following travel tips to lessen holiday travel stress: