On Wednesday, July 29, 2026, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) temporarily suspended operations at Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, resulting in the cancellation of around 20 U.S.-bound flights.
The suspension was triggered by a strong odour from varnish associated with painting work and construction materials near the customs area. The Montreal Fire Department inspected the site and found the odour posed no health risk. Ventilation in the affected area was increased following the incident.
Montréal-Trudeau Airport officials said, “USCBP operations are gradually resuming. However, passengers should expect delays. The temporary suspension was caused by the odour of varnish associated with painting
work. While the odour may have been unpleasant, it did not pose any health risk. We thank passengers for their patience and understanding.” They also urged passengers to check their flight status with their airline before travelling and apologized for the inconvenience.
The airport is currently undergoing a $10-billion redevelopment project, one of the largest infrastructure transformations in its history, with ongoing construction expected to continue over the next decade.
Passengers should continue to expect delays as USCBP operations gradually resume at Montréal-Trudeau Airport, and cancellations may still occur. Travelers are advised to check flight updates directly with their airlines
before departure.
