On a recent Air Canada Winnipeg to Vancouver booking I got a chance to check out the Winnipeg Maple Leaf Lounge. Although it’s a small space, unlike many other Air Canada lounges, the Winnipeg Maple Leaf Lounge is bright and airy with refreshed furniture.
This is my full Winnipeg Maple Leaf Lounge review, including why I think it is better than the Plaza Premium Lounge at YWG.
Search for the lowest prices on Air Canada Winnipeg to Vancouver flights with SkyscannerWinnipeg Air Canada Lounge Location & Hours
Located just beyond the security checkpoint and directly across from Gate 9, the Winnipeg Maple Leaf Lounge is an easily accessible haven for travelers. Navigating the airport’s modest size works to your advantage, ensuring that locating the lounge is a breeze.
Upon clearing security, a simple left turn positions you in the right direction. As you glance down the terminal, the unmistakable bright red Air Canada logo beckons above the entrance, providing a visual guide to this oasis of comfort. The lounge’s strategic placement enhances the ease of access, offering a seamless and straightforward journey for those looking to unwind before their flight.
It’s important to note that this lounge services domestic and international flights except for flights to the United States. Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge business class passengers have access to the lounge, as do premium Aeroplan credit card holders.
Tuesday through Sunday, the Winnipeg Maple Leaf Lounge is open from 04:00 to 18:15. On Monday, it’s open from 04:00 to 19:30.
Winnipeg Maple Leaf Lounge Service & Amenities
Upon check-in, you’ll discover a spacious lounge featuring a TV (I caught the World Junior Hockey game during my visit – a nod to Canada) and a generously sized table workspace equipped with convenient power outlets.
What immediately captures attention are the vibrant red seats and light fixtures, a departure from the typically dated decor and seating arrangements found in many other Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges. These eye-catching elements add a contemporary touch, creating a more dynamic and visually appealing ambiance.
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Aligning with the windows overlooking the tarmac, the red chairs and tables create a striking contrast. This design choice enhances the aesthetics and provides guests with a pleasant view as they unwind. A small fireplace, cleverly placed to delineate the kitchen and bar area on the opposite side, introduces a subtle yet cozy accent. The lounge’s thoughtful layout and modern elements redefine the lounge experience, setting it apart from the conventional offerings in Air Canada’s Maple Leaf Lounges.
Further down along the windows, you will find lounger chairs similar to what are at all other Maple Leaf Lounges. There is tabletop power in between the chairs for convenient device charging pre-flight.
Towards the lounge’s farthest reaches, you’ll discover a handful of inviting seats to face the tarmac. This tucked-away area serves as my top suggestion for dropping your bags and settling in for a tranquil respite.
Enjoy a serene atmosphere in the quiet zone, where the absence of cell phone conversations allows for uninterrupted relaxation. Immerse yourself in the calming ambiance, providing a perfect vantage point to observe the airport activity while enjoying a peaceful moment away from the usual hustle and bustle of travel.
Beyond the seating options, other amenities at the Winnipeg Air Canada Lounge include free Wi-Fi and access to PressReader, a free digital magazine service where you can download something to read while at the lounge or on your flight.
Regrettably, the Winnipeg Air Canada Lounge falls short in one key aspect – the absence of shower facilities. While this omission may seem conspicuous, it becomes more understandable when considering the airport’s focus on primarily domestic flights.
Given the nature of the airport’s service, which predominantly caters to domestic travel, the need for shower facilities may not be as pronounced. While this feature is often a sought-after amenity in lounges, its absence in Winnipeg aligns with the airport’s operational context. It’s essential to manage expectations based on the nature of the flights serviced by the airport, acknowledging that specific amenities, such as showers, may be more prevalent in lounges serving international hubs.
Winnipeg Air Canada Lounge Food & Drink
The Winnipeg Maple Leaf Lounge’s culinary offerings lean towards simplicity, focusing on cold options like wraps, salads, and fruit during my visit. While lacking in hot dishes, the selection caters to those seeking a light, healthy pre-flight snack. However, if you find yourself with a heartier appetite, venturing outside the lounge for more substantial options might be a wise choice.
A notable feature is a Lavazza coffee machine and a diverse tea selection, providing a comforting beverage experience. To sweeten the deal, the lounge also offers cookies and granola bars – a delightful touch that adds a snackable and satisfying element to the overall food service. These small but thoughtful additions create a more pleasant and well-rounded lounge experience for travelers passing through the Winnipeg Maple Leaf Lounge.
Air Canada Lounge Winnipeg Bar
While the Winnipeg Air Canada Lounge bar is somewhat restricted, it boasts a unique highlight – Guinness on tap, a feature notably absent in other locations such as Edmonton. For those seeking a pre-flight pint outside the typical Canadian or Coors offerings, this inclusion is certainly a welcomed deviation.
Despite the limitations, I enjoyed visiting a few local craft breweries in town. It would be fantastic to see a representation of the local brew scene within the lounge, although I understand that this request aligns with my preference for all Air Canada Maple Leaf lounges.
Beyond beer, the lounge’s beverage options extend to a modest selection of wines, catering to varying preferences. Additionally, a range of spirits and mixes are available, encouraging the crafting of personalized cocktails for those inclined to do so. While the bar may not be expansive, the presence of distinctive choices like Guinness on tap and the potential for showcasing local brews could elevate the overall beverage experience at the Winnipeg Air Canada Lounge.
Final Thoughts on the Maple Leaf Lounge Winnipeg
The Winnipeg airport is not particularly busy compared to other Canadian hub cities. This is evident inside the Winnipeg Air Canada lounge. On my visit, I counted ten other guests and is very much a welcome change from the crowded lounges in Toronto and Vancouver.
The refreshed seating and bright tarmac views make for a comfortable and relaxing space. Compared to the airport’s only other option, Plaza Premium, the Winnipeg Maple Leaf Lounge is far quieter and more comfortable, in my opinion, and was a great stop before boarding my Air Canada business class flight home.
For comparison, check out my reviews of the Maple Leaf lounges in Montreal, Ottawa, and Halifax.
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Does Winnipeg airport have a lounge?
The Winnipeg airport has two lounges: the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge and the Plaza Premium Lounge. The Maple Leaf Lounge is associated with Air Canada, whereas the Plaza Premium Lounge is not associated with an airline. The latter can be accessed through certain credit card partnerships and by paying a fee at the entrance.
Does Winnipeg Airport have a Maple Leaf Lounge?
Yes, Winnipeg Airport has a Maple Leaf Lounge. It is located directly across from Gate 9. It is very easy to find as the Winnipeg Airport is not very big. Turn left after clearing security and look for the Air Canada maple leaf logo hanging above the lounge entrance. The lounge has most of the same amenities as other Maple Leaf lounges (food, drinks, wifi, quiet area, seating, TV, digital magazines, etc…); however, it does not have a shower facility.
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