OPP, airport issue tips as holiday travel peaks in northern Ont.

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With Christmas just around the corner and the holiday season in full swing, officials are offering air and highway travel tips.

“We are definitely seeing an increase in passengers and traffic that, you know, with passengers travelling for the holiday season,” said Christopher Pollesel, director, commercial development and passenger experience at the Greater Sudbury Airport.

“This is the time where a little bit of extra planning or packing some patience really does go a long way.”

Pollesel told CTV News that ‘a bit of planning goes a long way.’

“Making sure that you’ve checked on your flight status before you come up to the airport, you’ve made sure that all of your liquids, gels, and aerosols are 100ml or less in the resealable bag,” he said.

Pollesel said domestic and European travellers have increased this season.

“We are continuing to see a positive increase in our numbers in terms of passengers traveling from the airport and in terms of the flights that we have this year,” he said.

“We were very excited to welcome WestJet with their direct flight from Sudbury to Calgary, as well as Prop-Air launching their flights direct from Sudbury to Ottawa and Montreal. So, growth is continuing, and it is on a horizon, and we certainly see that continued growth, as our predictions for the new year into 2026.”

The airport was busy Tuesday morning as many arrived in the city to visit with loved ones over the holidays.

Ashley Moore was there to pick up her boyfriend, who had been in Edmonton, Alta., for work for 10 days. She told CTV that they hadn’t seen each other very much since November, and she was looking forward to seeing him.

“I’m bringing him home for Christmas,” said Moore.

“It’s really funny. We were here exactly six years ago today, doing the same thing when we first got together. So, it’s a little bit nostalgic, but yeah, it’s great.”

Also travelling was Evan Desriviere. He grew up in Sudbury and hadn’t been home in six months.

“I spent some time in Phoenix. I’m very happy to be back,” he said.

“Three weeks ago, I was in Vienna, which was pretty cool to see, but honestly, I’m enjoying Sudbury more right now because I just... I miss it, you know?”

Meanwhile, Ontario Provincial Police are encouraging motorists to take added precautions before heading out for holiday plans.

“Our roads are busier, as a result of people travelling to visit family and friends,” said Sgt. Martin Thibault.

“Look at weather patterns before you start travelling. We encourage people to, to always plan ahead and check the weather or call 511.”

Thibault added that if you are heading out on the highways, keep these tips in mind:

• Prepare your vehicle: Ensure all snow is cleared from your car, fluids are topped up, and you have a full tank of gas.
• Pack an emergency kit: Always carry blankets, food, water, and a fully charged phone in case of a breakdown or closure.
• Adjust your speed: Slow down and increase your following distance. If the road is closed, do not bypass the gates – they are there for your protection.
• Give snowplows space: Do not attempt to pass working plows.

“Sometimes people get impatient, but it is better to follow and wait patiently,” said Thibault.

“Trying to pass (a plow) is an unsafe move that puts everyone at risk.”

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