Toronto Pearson International Airport
Toronto · Canada
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is Canada's largest and busiest airport, located primarily in Mississauga, Ontario, serving the Toronto metropolitan area and Golden Horseshoe region. It handled 46.8 million passengers in 2024 and operates as the primary global hub for Air Canada.[1]
Opened in 1937, Toronto Pearson has grown into a major international gateway with five runways and two main passenger terminals on 1,867 hectares. Managed by the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA), it supports around 50,000 workers and features U.S. border preclearance facilities. The airport serves as a hub for Air Canada, Porter Airlines, and WestJet, with a focus city for Air Transat. It is situated 20 km northwest of downtown Toronto.[1]
Interesting facts
- Named after Lester B. Pearson, Canada's 14th Prime Minister and 1957 Nobel Peace Prize winner for peacekeeping efforts.[1]
- The IATA code YYZ derives from the old railway station code 'YZ' for Malton, Ontario, where the airport is located.[1]
- Famous Canadian rock band Rush named an instrumental song 'YYZ' after the airport's code, inspired by its Morse code signal near their hometown.[6]
- The airport spans 4,613 acres with five runways capable of handling widebody jets, and underwent a major C$4.4 billion development program completed in 2008.[1][7]
- It maintains U.S. preclearance, allowing passengers to clear customs in Toronto before flying to the United States.[1]
Tips for travelers
- Use the free Terminal Link people mover to connect between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 efficiently.[1][4][5]
- Arrive early for security, especially during peak hours, and utilize UP Express train from downtown Toronto.[5]
- Free WiFi is available throughout the terminals; download apps for real-time flight updates.[1]
- U.S. preclearance is in Terminal 1 for eligible flights, saving time on arrival in the U.S.[1]
- Dining and shopping options are extensive in both terminals, including Canadian specialties.[1]
- Parking is ample but book in advance; multi-level garages hold thousands of spaces.[7]