Calgary Airport and stampede implement inti-ramming barriers to enhance pedestrian safety  

June 20,2025

RED FM News Desk

Construction is underway on new anti-ramming curbside barriers at Calgary International Airport, part of a broader citywide effort to improve pedestrian safety. The waist-high bollards will be installed in front of every entrance at both the arrivals and departures levels.

In a statement, the Calgary Airport Authority described the project as a proactive measure to enhance security—not a reaction to any specific incident.  The airport has previously estimated an average of 67,000 daily visitors during the summer season and expects over 5.8 million people to pass through by the season’s end.  “These barriers are part of a multi-year initiative aimed at better protecting public areas and aligning with evolving best practices in the industry,” the authority said. However, it declined to provide the projected cost of the bollard installation or share details about future phases of the plan.  

With construction reducing curbside space, the airport is working to minimize vehicle congestion near terminal doors. Signs will direct drivers around any lane closures, and the airport recommends using the cellphone waiting lot, where vehicles can park for up to 60 minutes.  

Vehicle-related safety measures have gained renewed attention in Calgary following recent incidents across the country. In April, following a deadly vehicle attack in Vancouver Lapu Lapu Day festival, Ward 3 Councillor Jasmine Mian raised concerns during a city council meeting, asking what steps Calgary was taking to protect public spaces. In response, the Calgary Stampede has chosen to deploy portable barriers instead of permanent bollards. Six such barriers, each marked with the Stampede logo, are currently in place ahead of this weekend’s Rotary International Convention.