Review : Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge  – Montreal (YUL), Transborder Concourse

Needs a refresh….soon

The summary

The Maple Leaf Lounge is located near gates 73 and 74 in Montreal’s Transborder concourse, which is only accessible to US-bound travelers. It is directly across from the Air Canada Cafe. I was in the Air Canada Café before checking out the “traditional” Maple Leaf Lounge. To access the Maple Leaf Lounge, travelers proceed to the right after proceeding from US Customs/Border Control in Montreal and from the duty-free shopping arcade.

The entry is clearly marked by a small sign. Access rules are identical to those of Maple Leaf Lounges, which could benefit many United flyers with Star Alliance Gold Status. During my afternoon visit, there was a line out the door, resulting in a short (five-minute wait). Guests have to ascend a flight of stairs or elevator to enter the lounge, which is one level above the departure gates. After presenting your credentials, the lounge spreads out evenly to the right and to the left. Seating is a combination of unremarkable and typical lounge chairs and some communal tables. Outlets were easily accessible from most seats. My favorite design feature are the large windows that offer great views of the tarmac. However, the decor is very dated.

On the right side of the lounge, behind the seats is the food and beverage station. Instead of the manned bar at the Air Canada Café (which I preferred) there was self-service spirits, wine and beer (on tap). There was a soda machine and a coffee maker.

The food on offer was also unremarkable. Hot items included green beans, chicken, and rice. There was some breads, bagels, cookies, chips, soup, and a small salad station.

The internet was very quick. The lounge had portable charging stations that guests can borrow – this is a nice touch.

I was clearly disappointed with this space. It definitely pales to Air Canada’s excellent café – right across the concourse from this lounge.  Even without washrooms, the Air Canada Café provides a superior experience. It also does not compare favorably to the Transborder lounge in Toronto, which while dated is enormous, or my sentimental favorite in St. John’s. Lastly, it does not come close the the Maple Leaf Lounge in San Francisco, which is very awesome!

The wrap

…the details: Date: May 3, 2026. Rating: OK – get’s the job done.  Access: Business class seat on Air Canada/Star Alliance Gold

….what I like: The tarmac views

—what I don’t like: Dated design, crowds, limited food and drink offerings