If you’re arriving by air, you won’t have to think too long which airport to choose. Halifax has just one – Stanfield Intl. Airport (YHZ).

Lengthy commutes aren’t a big deal if you plan ahead for them. Downtown Halifax is 27 kilometers from Halifax Stanfield, so it’s wise to know how you’ll get into the city before you touchdown.

If you’re hopping on a flight to Halifax, you’ll most likely be heading to Halifax Airport (27 kilometers from downtown). YWF (0.64 kilometers from downtown) is the other main airport that services the city.

There are 9 airlines connecting Halifax with 20 airports around the world.

Halifax receives most of its flights from Air Canada, WestJet and Swoop with Air Canada being the favorite choice of airline. Toronto is the most popular city for travelers to depart from.

Arranging an unforgettable Halifax getaway is a piece of cake when there are 285 direct flights each week to pick from.

Flights to Halifax from Toronto, Saint John and Montreal airports are in high demand.

If it’s Toronto you’re leaving behind, you’ll be in the air for around 2 hours and 10 minutes before you touchdown in Halifax. Airport to airport from Ottawa generally takes 1 hour and 51 minutes and from Montreal, 1 hour and 37 minutes.

Don’t leave locking in your flight to Halifax until the last moment. That’s one move savvy jet-setters use to get the best deals. Booking in advance means more choices and less expensive flights. Also, look around online and compare your options. If your destination has several airports, you may be able to nab a better deal by flying into one a little farther out. Last but not least, another simple way to save some cash is be ready to book fast. If you find a fantastic deal, don’t think twice — snap it up while you’ve got the chance.

Wherever you’re coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you’ve prepared well. We’ve made a list of handy tips that will help get your Halifax vacation started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, important documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you’ll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to catch a few z’s, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you’ll arrive feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don’t have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are not the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and remember to bring a cardigan as it can get chilly inside the cabin during long-haul flights. Flat, enclosed shoes are also recommended.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long flights is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are another simple way to help lower your risk.

It’s all about being organized. We’ve put together some top tips for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Look out Halifax, here you come:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don’t have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They’ll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Traveling with your favorite perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a zip-lock bag, you’re allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren’t.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won’t be allowed on board and will be confiscated.