How to cut through holiday chaos, fly with ease in YQR

Christmas is supposed to be merry, but travelling through busy and hectic airports can suck the joy out of the holiday season. That’s why a version of Santa Baby emanates by the baggage pickup area at the Regina Airport.

The song isn’t a recording, but a live performance by Resonance, a local act comprised of Christie-Anne Blondeau on vocals and Fred Foerster playing the upright bass.

It’s entertainment for those ready to fly out or who are just arriving to help lighten the mood.

“It’s just a little extra something in the air,” said Blondeau. “I think it was a nice touch.”

Foerster said it’s a wonderful, joyous time of year with so many people reuniting with loved ones.

“There’s a lot of emotions when you go through here…and nothing better than a little music to get you in the spirit,” he said.

Fresh off arriving from Vancouver, Kim Harris personally went up to the duo to pass on his praise.

“You don’t get that every day, so it’s perfect. Great welcome to Regina…and they’re great.”

Live music is one initiative the airport is using to help cut through the stress in a busy time that’s anticipated to plateau in the coming days.

“We can see spikes, upwards of 10 or 15 per cent more, so it’s a very, very busy time,” said Regina Airport CEO James Bogusz.

He said that time is now with Christmas Eve on a Monday this year, guessing Thursday, Friday and Saturday will see thousands of people ready to go and visit family or friends in different cities.

“The peak times for us where it’s really, really busy, are between 4:30 in the morning ’til about 8:30 in the morning. That’s when the security lines typically get the busiest,” Bogusz explained.

He recommends arriving at least 90 minutes before flying and to ensure baggage is properly packed. Bogusz said travellers can go to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) website for a guide.

-With files from 980 CJME’s Joseph Ho