Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport

The Aspire Salon Lounge at Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport sits on Level 2 of the main terminal, to the right of Gate 18, and is directly opposite the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge — forming one of the more convenient side-by-side lounge pairings at a Canadian regional airport. As the only independent open-access lounge at YOW, it serves passengers on any airline or ticket class through Priority Pass, DragonPass, or a walk-in day pass, which is particularly valuable for the many travelers arriving at Canada's federal capital on non-Air Canada carriers. The Aspire Salon delivers a modern, airy interior with hot and cold meal options, plant-based and vegetarian choices, and a complimentary bar of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Unlike the Maple Leaf Lounge adjacent to it, the Aspire Salon operates significantly reduced weekend hours — opening at 10:00 AM on Saturdays and Sundays versus 5:00 AM on weekdays, making it unavailable to early weekend morning departures. Complimentary Wi-Fi, workstations, flight information monitors, and luggage storage are all available; printers and conference facilities carry an additional charge. Like the Maple Leaf Lounge, the Aspire Salon is restricted to domestic and international departures — US transborder passengers from YOW are not eligible. Full disabled access is confirmed.

The Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge at Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport occupies Level 2 of the main terminal, accessed via elevator or staircase from the departure concourse after clearing security. Situated between Gates 17 and 18, it is a fitting lounge for the nation's capital — a steady mix of government officials, diplomatic staff, lobbyists, and frequent business flyers make up much of the traffic. It sits directly across from the Aspire Salon Lounge, forming one of the more convenient side-by-side lounge pairings at a Canadian regional airport. The layout offers a dining area to the left on entry, a sweeping window-side seating bank in the centre with tarmac views, and a private business centre with workstations and printers to the right. Showers are available — a notable distinction from the Saskatoon and Regina Maple Leaf Lounges. The food program leans toward lighter bites with regional touches, paired with a self-serve bar offering wine, beer, and spirits. TVs cycle CTV News, while PressReader provides complimentary access to newspapers and magazines. Hours vary by day of week: the lounge closes earlier Tuesday through Saturday than it does on Sundays and Mondays. US transborder passengers departing YOW cannot access this lounge.