G7 Summit Triggers Major Road Closures and Travel Delays
As Calgary hosts the high-security G7 Summit, travellers are facing extensive road closures and traffic restrictions across key areas like Airport Trail and Banff. Whether you’re heading to the airport or planning a scenic hike, expect delays and reroutes through June 18.
Airport Trail Tunnel Closed: Expect Delays Until Wednesday
The Airport Trail tunnel in northeast Calgary shut down early Sunday morning and will remain completely closed through Wednesday, June 18. This move supports enhanced security as global leaders arrive and depart from Calgary International Airport.
If you’re coming from Calgary’s east side, take Country Hills Boulevard to Barlow Trail instead. Note that Airport Trail itself is open between Deerfoot Trail and Barlow Trail, but the tunnel remains inaccessible.
Additional Closures Near Calgary International Airport
To help ensure secure movement for summit delegates, these nearby restrictions are now active:
- Off-ramp Closure: The off-ramp from 19th Street N.E. to eastbound Airport Trail is shut during the same period.
- McCall Way Access Limited: Only employees and businesses can enter the north end of McCall Way, which now has a checkpoint.
- No Parking Zone: Absolutely no stopping or parking is allowed around the airport’s perimeter until June 18.
- Rolling Closures Likely: Be ready for temporary traffic stops as official motorcades pass through.
Calgary Police strongly advise all travellers flying out this week to arrive early and plan alternate routes.
Downtown Calgary Closures Around Fairmont Hotel
Security isn’t just tight near the airport. Beginning Sunday, June 15 through Tuesday, June 17, certain lanes around Fairmont Palliser Hotel will be closed:
- Fairmont parking lane
- Right lane of eastbound 9th Avenue S.W.
- Right lane of northbound 1st Street S.W.
These closures accommodate motorcades and enhanced security setups for visiting dignitaries.
Banff Restrictions: Media Centre and Trail Access Affected
Meanwhile, in Banff, the G7 International Media Centre has led to a complete closure of St. Julien Road, from Wolverine Street to St. Julien Way, between June 13 and June 18.
Although vehicles are blocked, hikers can still walk up Caribou Street and St. Julien Road to reach the Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail. However, trailhead parking is closed to the public.
Access to the Banff Centre must be made via Buffalo Street or Tunnel Mountain Drive. On-site staff are operating 24/7 to allow local residents through.
What’s Open, What’s Closed – Quick Snapshot
| Location | Status | Notes |
| Airport Tunnel | Closed | Until June 18 |
| Airport Trail (Deerfoot to Barlow) | Open | Tunnel inaccessible |
| 19th St N.E. Off-Ramp | Closed | Eastbound only |
| McCall Way (North End) | Restricted | Staff/business only |
| Fairmont Area Lanes | Closed | June 15–17 only |
| St. Julien Road, Banff | Closed | June 13–18 |
| Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail | Open to hikers | No public parking |
Detour Tips and Travel Advice
- Leave extra time for airport travel—arrive earlier than usual.
- Use Country Hills Boulevard and Barlow Trail for east-side access.
- Pay attention to Calgary Police officers’ directions during motorcades.
- Avoid areas near Fairmont Palliser and St. Julien Road unless necessary.
Stay informed, stay safe, and plan smart as world leaders gather for the G7 Summit.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire for real-time updates and alerts.
