A Guide to Canada’s Busiest Airport: Toronto Pearson International Airport

Airports are more than just places to rest and refuel during your travels; they are the gateway to new experiences and the first taste of a foreign land. As you step off the plane and into the bustling Toronto Pearson International Airport, you are met with many cultures and languages, all intermingling in the vibrant atmosphere.

The Toronto airport represents the adventure, the excitement, and the diversity of travel, with flights departing to nearly 200 destinations worldwide. So whether you’re arriving to see loved ones, explore new terrain, or simply passing through, remember that your time at an airport is more than a mere stopover; it’s the beginning of your journey.

 

 

History and Statistics of Toronto Pearson International Airport

In 1937, the Canadian government decided to construct two new airports. The first was situated in downtown Toronto, while the second was built in the northwestern part of Toronto, near a small town called Malton.

At the time, the plan was for the Malton airport to serve as a supplementary airport to its predecessor downtown, expected to be less popular and busy. However, fate had other plans for the two airports.

Today, the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport stands in downtown Toronto. Toronto Pearson International Airport, built on the Malton site, has become a major commercial airport, far exceeding the original predictions. It’s fascinating to contemplate how these two airports have developed over almost a century.

Originally called the Malton Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport was renamed Toronto International Airport in 1958, changed to the Lester B. Pearson International Airport in 1984, and received its current name when the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) assumed management in 1996.

 

 

Airlines

In 2018, 49.5 million passengers travelled through Pearson, and the airport managed over 470,000 flights.

There are more than 30 airlines that operate out of this airport, and planes fly to over 180 destinations around the world. Here is a list of all of the airlines, both budget and significant, that currently operate out of Toronto Pearson International Airport:

• Aer Lingus
• AeroMexico
• Air Canada
• Air Canada Jazz
• Air France
• Air Italy
• Air Transat
• Alitalia
• American Airlines
• Avianca Airlines
• Azores Airlines
• British Airways
• Brussels Airlines
• Caribbean Airlines
• Cathay Pacific
• China Eastern
• China Southern
• Condor
• Copa Airlines
• Delta 
• Egyptair
• El Al Israel
• Emirates
• Ethiopian
• Etihad
• Eva Air
• Flair Airlines
• Hainan Airlines
• Icelandair
• Interjet
• KLM
• Korean Air
• LOT Polish Airlines
• Lufthansa
• Pakistan International Airlines
• Philippine Airlines
• Sunwing Airlines
• TAP Air Portugal
• Turkish Airlines
• Ukraine International Airlines
• United Airlines
• Westjet

 

Terminals

Toronto Pearson International Airport has two public terminals that are currently active: Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. You might be wondering what happened to Terminal 2.

Well, Terminal 2 was permanently closed and demolished in 2007. An expansion to Terminal 1 replaced it. 

Terminal 1 is Canada’s largest airport terminal and the world’s 12th-largest airport terminal. Terminal 1 has 58 gates, and Terminal 3 has 48 gates. The fact that there is no Terminal 2 anymore could be confusing, and perhaps the airport should look into renaming Terminals 1 and 3 to 1 and 2.

Terminal 1 has an eight-level parking garage with a parking capacity of 8,400 cars. Terminal 3 has a five-level parking garage with a parking capacity of 3,800 vehicles. 

 

 

Facilities

Toronto Pearson International Airport has many facilities and amenities that will make your pre or post-flight stay more pleasant. There are three Plaza Premium lounges in Terminal 1 and three in Terminal 3.

These lounges serve a hot and cold buffet with vegetarian options and self-serving liquor selections for those foodie travellers. They offer free Wi-Fi, charging stations for phones or other gadgets, and a comfortable seating area. 

In the Terminal 1 domestic and international departures lounges, showers are available just in case you want to freshen up before or after a long flight.

In the Terminal 3 domestic departures lounge, you can indulge and unwind by using spa services. These include massages and manicures.

There are also Plenty of shops for people looking to buy presents on the way home or supplies for the flight itself. Rocky Mountain Chocolate has some delicious sweet treats, MAC Cosmetics offers high-end cosmetic stores, and the Body Shop is renowned for its high-quality skincare and beauty products. 

The Terminal 1 International section boasts many designer shops, including Burberry, Chanel, and Gucci. From the luxury facilities available at this airport, it’s clear that it has been designed with high-end customers in mind. However, there is something for everyone here, and shops to meet all budgets.

 

 

 

Parking 

This airport offers several parking options to suit many different budgets and preferences. It costs $5 for every 30 minutes if you choose the express park option, to a daily maximum of $50.

This choice is intended for people dropping off passengers, so you will probably only have to pay a maximum of $10 since you likely won’t be waiting around for more than an hour. 

If you are flying on a plane and want to leave your car in a car park, the daily park option is more suitable. It costs $30 daily and drops to $175 for seven days.

Therefore, if your vacation is ten days, it will cost $175 plus $90, which is $265. Airport parking is not known for being economical no matter what airport you’re travelling through, but it may be the only option for some people and can be highly convenient. 

 

 

Security

Going through airport security can be a daunting task, but it’s a necessary step to ensure everyone’s safety. After checking in and dealing with your luggage, it’s time to face the security line. Be prepared to have all your carry-on bags checked and your items scrutinized.

You may even undergo an individual search to confirm there is nothing dangerous on your person. Electronic devices are also subject to enhanced screening on a random basis to add an extra layer of security.

It’s good practice to ensure your phone is fully charged and functional before arriving at security if you’re one of the lucky ones selected for this screening. Rest assured that these measures are in place to keep everyone safe during their travels.

 

Fun Facts

Toronto Pearson is a very innovative airport for two reasons: first, they are introducing artificial intelligence into their already robust security system.

And second, they have set up Uber self-service kiosks. The inclusion of artificial intelligence is a measure to improve the detection of weapons, and the Uber kiosks are an excellent way for people to find their transport as soon as they get off the plane.

 

Conclusion of the Toronto Pearson International Airport

As you traverse Toronto Pearson International Airport, you can’t help but marvel at the technological advancements surrounding you. This bustling transportation hub is moving forward with a steadfast mission to offer an enhanced travel experience.

Thanks to self-serving transport kiosks, imagine checking in for your flight without ever waiting in line or encountering artificial intelligence that seamlessly interacts with you in real time, providing information and support.

These innovations represent a new era for airport travel, and Toronto Pearson International Airport is leading the way. Conclusion? You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more modern and efficient airport experience anywhere else.

 

Read about another busy airport here – The Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand!