Toronto

✈️

Airports

International and domestic air travel hubs serving Toronto and surrounding regions.

Sections

1. Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

Overview

  • Location: 22.5 km (14 miles) northwest of downtown Toronto, in Mississauga.
  • Primary Use: Toronto Pearson is Canada’s largest and busiest airport, handling most international and domestic flights.
  • Terminals: Two terminals (Terminal 1 and Terminal 3) connected by the free Terminal Link train.

Transportation Options to/from Toronto Pearson

  1. Union Pearson (UP) Express Train:

    • Route: Connects Pearson Airport to Union Station in downtown Toronto.
    • Travel Time: 25 minutes.
    • Cost: CAD 12.35 one-way for adults (discounts for children, seniors, and Presto card users).
    • Frequency: Every 15 minutes.
    • Accessibility: Fully accessible for passengers with mobility needs.

  2. Public Transit (TTC and MiWay):

    • TTC (Toronto Transit Commission): Bus 900 Airport Express connects the airport to Kipling Station (Line 2 subway).
      • Cost: CAD 3.35 (Presto card) or CAD 3.50 (cash).
    • MiWay: Local buses connect the airport to Mississauga and surrounding areas.
      • Cost: CAD 4.00 (cash).

  3. Taxis and Ride-Sharing:

    • Taxis: Flat rates to downtown Toronto range from CAD 50–70.
    • Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are available, with fares starting around CAD 40–50 depending on traffic.

  4. Car Rentals:

    • Major car rental companies (e.g., Hertz, Avis, Enterprise) operate at Pearson. Rental counters are located in both terminals.

  5. Airport Shuttles and Private Transfers:

    • Many hotels offer complimentary or paid shuttle services.
    • Private transfer services can be pre-booked for convenience.

Procedures for International Travelers

  1. Arrival:

    • Customs and Immigration: International travelers must clear customs and immigration upon arrival. Use the ArriveCAN app to submit travel and health information before your flight.
    • eGates: Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and some international travelers can use automated kiosks for faster processing.
    • Baggage Claim: Follow signs to the baggage claim area after clearing customs.

  2. Departure:

    • Check-In: Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights. Check-in counters and self-service kiosks are available.
    • Security Screening: Be prepared to remove electronics and liquids from your carry-on for screening.
    • US Preclearance: If flying to the US, you will clear US customs and immigration at Pearson before boarding.

Amenities at Toronto Pearson

  • Dining and Shopping: A wide range of restaurants, cafes, and duty-free shops are available in both terminals.
  • Lounges: Premium lounges (e.g., Plaza Premium Lounge, Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge) are accessible for a fee or with certain memberships.
  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
  • Family Services: Nursing rooms, children’s play areas, and family washrooms are available.
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair assistance, accessible washrooms, and elevators are provided.
  • Hotels: The Sheraton Gateway Hotel is directly connected to Terminal 3, and several other hotels are nearby.

Nearby Landmarks and Local Considerations

  • Mississauga: Explore Square One Shopping Centre or Celebration Square, both a short drive from the airport.
  • Toronto: Downtown Toronto is easily accessible via the UP Express, where you can visit landmarks like the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the Royal Ontario Museum.

2. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)

Overview

  • Location: On the Toronto Islands, just 3 km (1.8 miles) from downtown Toronto.
  • Primary Use: A smaller airport primarily serving domestic flights and select US destinations, operated by Porter Airlines and Air Canada.
  • Access: Known for its proximity to downtown, making it a convenient choice for business travelers.

Transportation Options to/from Billy Bishop

  1. Airport Ferry:

    • A free ferry service connects the mainland to the airport terminal. The ferry ride takes just 90 seconds and operates every 15 minutes.

  2. Pedestrian Tunnel:

    • A pedestrian tunnel with moving walkways connects the mainland to the airport. It takes about 6 minutes to walk through.

  3. Public Transit:

    • The TTC’s Bathurst Streetcar (511) stops near the airport ferry terminal.
    • Cost: CAD 3.35 (Presto card) or CAD 3.50 (cash).

  4. Taxis and Ride-Sharing:

    • Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. Fares to downtown Toronto are typically CAD 10–20.

  5. Biking and Walking:

    • The airport is easily accessible by bike or on foot from downtown Toronto. Bike racks are available near the ferry terminal.

Procedures for International Travelers

  1. Arrival:

    • Customs and Immigration: International travelers clear customs and immigration upon arrival. The process is generally faster than at Pearson due to the smaller size of the airport.
    • Baggage Claim: Located near the arrivals area.

  2. Departure:

    • Check-In: Arrive at least 2 hours before international flights. Porter Airlines offers a seamless check-in experience.
    • Security Screening: The airport’s smaller size means shorter wait times.
    • US Preclearance: Not available at Billy Bishop; US-bound travelers clear customs upon arrival in the US.

Amenities at Billy Bishop

  • Dining and Shopping: Limited dining options, including a café and snack kiosks.
  • Lounge: Porter Airlines offers a complimentary lounge for all passengers, featuring snacks, beverages, and Wi-Fi.
  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible with wheelchair assistance and elevators.

Nearby Landmarks and Local Considerations

  • Toronto Islands: The airport is located on the Toronto Islands, a popular destination for outdoor activities, beaches, and stunning views of the Toronto skyline.
  • Downtown Toronto: The airport’s proximity to downtown makes it easy to visit attractions like the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and Harbourfront Centre.

Key Tips for Travelers

  • ArriveCAN App: All international travelers must use the ArriveCAN app to submit travel and health information before entering Canada.
  • Currency: Ensure you have Canadian dollars (CAD) for transportation and small purchases.
  • Weather: Toronto experiences cold winters and hot summers, so dress accordingly when traveling to/from the airport.
  • Language: English is the primary language spoken, but French is also widely used.

By understanding the features and services of both Toronto Pearson and Billy Bishop airports, you can plan your arrival and departure with ease. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, Toronto’s airports offer a range of options to suit your needs. Safe travels!