Toronto Airport: The Largest and Busiest Airport in Canada

The main airport in Canada is undoubtedly Toronto Pearson International Airport, widely known by its IATA code YYZ. Its official name is Lester B. Pearson International Airport, a title it received in 1984 in honor of Canada’s 14th Prime Minister, Lester B. Pearson, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1957.

Toronto Pearson Airport is located approximately 17 miles (28 km) northwest of downtown Toronto, primarily within the city of Mississauga, while a small part of the airport complex extends into Etobicoke. As the largest and busiest airport in the country, YYZ serves as the main aviation hub of Ontario, whose capital is Toronto.

In 2019, more than 50 million passengers traveled through Toronto Pearson Airport. Although passenger traffic declined significantly during the Covid-19 pandemic, the airport still handled around 37 million passengers in 2022, maintaining its status as one of the most important airports worldwide. In addition, Toronto Pearson is the second-largest employer in the city and actively invests in sustainability initiatives, aiming to become a global leader in environmentally responsible aviation.

Toronto Pearson Airport Information

IATA Code: YYZ
ICAO Code: CYYZ
Location: Mississauga and Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Time Zone: Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), UTC -4

Toronto Airport Layout

Toronto Pearson International Airport features two main terminal buildings and a total of 106 gates. The airport complex also includes five runways and approximately 30 taxiways.

Terminal 1 is the newer and significantly larger terminal. It replaced the former Terminal 2 and was later expanded, becoming the largest terminal in Canada and one of the biggest in the world. Terminal 1 primarily serves Air Canada, the country’s national carrier, as well as other Star Alliance member airlines.

Terminal 3 handles flights operated mainly by SkyTeam and Oneworld alliance airlines. The Infield Concourse (IFC) is connected to Terminal 3, meaning that passengers using IFC gates go through customs, baggage claim, and check-in procedures at Terminal 3.

Airlines Operating at Toronto Pearson Airport

Toronto Pearson Airport hosts all major international airlines, traditional full-service carriers, domestic operators, and low-cost airlines. It is the primary hub for Air Canada and Air Canada Express, while also serving as a key hub for WestJet and Flair Airlines. In addition, the airport is an important cargo hub for FedEx Express and acts as a focus city for Air Transat, Lynx Air, and Swoop.

Overall, Toronto Pearson Airport operates scheduled and charter flights connecting passengers to more than 155 destinations worldwide.

Parking Facilities at Toronto Pearson Airport

Toronto Pearson Airport provides both short-term and long-term parking options to meet passengers’ needs. Parking facilities are available at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

With the Preferred Park option, travelers can reserve a specific parking spot in advance. In addition, the Pearson Airport Cell Phone Waiting Area is ideal for quick pick-ups and drop-offs. Valet parking services are also available, along with extra amenities such as car washing.

Transit Options from Toronto Pearson Airport

Traveling from Toronto Pearson Airport to downtown Toronto is easy thanks to a wide range of transportation options. Passengers can choose between:

* A taxi ride of approximately 30 minutes
* The UP Express train, reaching downtown in about 25 minutes
* Several airport bus services
* A private Toronto airport transfer
* An airport car rental for full flexibility

Services and Amenities at Toronto Pearson Airport

As one of the world’s major aviation hubs, Toronto Pearson Airport offers a full range of services and facilities, including:

* Retail shops and duty-free areas
* Restaurants and bars
* Baggage carts and luggage wrapping services
* Luggage storage facilities
* Meet & Greet services
* Pharmacies and medical services
* Banks, ATMs, and currency exchange offices
* Nursing rooms and pods
* Children’s play areas
* Lost & Found offices
* Chapels and prayer rooms
* Pet relief areas
* Airport lounges and spa facilities
* Free Wi-Fi access
* Conference and meeting rooms
* Travel agencies and tour operators
* Information desks and kiosks
* Facilities and services for passengers with disabilities

Toronto Pearson Airport Contact Information

Official Name: Lester B. Pearson International Airport
Address: 6301 Silver Dart Drive, Mississauga, ON L5P 1B2, Canada
Phone Number: (416) 247-7678 / 1 (866) 207-1690 (toll-free)
Official Website: https://www.torontopearson.com/en

The City of Toronto

Toronto is the largest city in Canada and the capital of the province of Ontario. It is internationally recognized for its multicultural character, offering endless opportunities for art lovers, food enthusiasts, and travelers.

The city’s diversity is reflected in its neighborhoods, architectural styles, and wide range of dining options. Some of Toronto’s most famous attractions include the CN Tower, the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the Hockey Hall of Fame.

With a vibrant downtown, an efficient public transportation network, and a scenic waterfront, Toronto combines modern urban life with a refreshing natural atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination in Canada.