The GTAA is delighted to welcome Virgin America to Toronto Pearson. The airline announced on Thursday that they will be introducing direct daily service to San Francisco and Los Angeles from Toronto beginning this June. Their new services will offer passengers additional options when flying to the United States, with the potential to attract new visitors to Toronto.

The Nuance Group has been named “best airport travel retailer in the Americas” by Duty-Free News International for their operation at Toronto Pearson. Duty-Free News International awards are based on voting by all companies operating in the American travel retail market.

Calling all runners - registration is now open for the 2010 Runway Run! On Saturday, June 19, Toronto Pearson will open its runway 06R-24L to two thousand members of the public and airport community. This fun and exciting, family-friendly event is an experience to remember.

With the spring-like weather Toronto has been experiencing, it’s tempting to believe that winter is almost over. The unofficial end of winter and beginning of spring, March Break, is just about here. This also signifies one of the busiest travel times of the year at Toronto Pearson International Airport.

Another day; another Olympic Gold medal for Canada. With the Olympic excitement and national pride growing, Toronto Pearson is thrilled to be able to join in the fun and make sure that passengers don’t miss a minute of the Games.

The Inukshuk is a stone landmark that has become a Canadian icon. Historically they were, and in some places they still are, used for navigation and points of reference. The word Inukshuk means “something that acts or performs the function of a person.”

With the Winter Olympics in Vancouver starting next week, the timing of the new exhibition at Toronto Pearson is very fitting. Champions on Ice and Snow features athletes that know what it feels like to have a whole country cheering for them. They know what it feels like to make history.

Marilynne Day-Linton, Chair of the Board of Directors of the GTAA is pleased to welcome Stephen J. Griggs as a member of the Board.

Air Canada has announced seven new routes to the U.S. out of Toronto Pearson. Passengers will now be able to fly directly to Orange County (Santa Ana) and San Diego, California; Portland, Oregon; Memphis, Tennessee; Cincinnati, Ohio; Portland, Maine; and Syracuse, New York.

Transport Canada has announced new regulations regarding carry-on luggage for passengers travelling to the United States. Effective January 20, passengers on these flights are now permitted to take one piece of carry-on luggage on board the aircraft.

Transport Canada recently announced that further steps will be taken in the process of reinforcing security in place at Canadian airports. Full body scanners will be placed in some airports over the next few months which will assist in streamlining the more stringent security measures that have been put in place recently.

Additional security regulations will remain in effect until further notice. On December 28, Transport Canada updated the rules regarding carry-on luggage for passengers travelling from Canada to the United States. Effective immediately, US bound passengers will not be permitted to bring carry-on luggage into the cabin of the aircraft, with some exceptions.

The busyness of the holiday season has begun at Toronto Pearson. Even with passenger traffic down about 6 per cent this year, the airport has been gearing up to deal with some busy travel days, the busiest of which are expected to fall after Christmas, with December 27 and 28 anticipating 97,000 and 93,000 passengers respectively.

The GTAA congratulates Air Canada on their recent announcement of new service being launched between Toronto and Copenhagen and the continued growth of Toronto as its North American and global hub.

Passengers planning to head south will have some new options in 2010. WestJet has announced its flight schedule for the summer of 2010 which includes new and expanded routes for transborder and international destinations.

With the busy winter travel season approaching, the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) is taking the opportunity to remind passengers that they need to pack smart to help make their airport experience as smooth as possible. Delays can be avoided at passenger screening points if travellers are prepared and have remembered the restrictions on carry on luggage when packing their bags.

The GTAA commends the Governments of Canada and China on the announcement that China has granted Approved Destination Status (ADS) to Canada, which will allow for significant growth of the Canadian tourism industry. With ADS now in place, Chinese citizens can now more easily obtain tourist visas to travel to Canada for

On September 23, the GTAA was very proud, as a sponsor of Alpine Canada, to bring together Chris Williamson, winner of multiple Paralymic medals in alpine skiing and the students of Thorndale Public School.

Since 1947, the Ontario Professional Engineers Awards (OPEA) have been given to professional engineers in Ontario who have made outstanding contributions to their profession and their community.

It’s never too early to make a great first impression. International visitors arriving at Toronto Pearson are getting a warm welcome and a sneak peak at Ontario’s great tourism experiences almost as soon as they step foot on Canadian soil.

The Vice President, Human Resources and Administration, Mr. D. Vito Lotito, has announced his retirement, effective April 30, 2010.

With location and convenience being cited as key determining factors, Toronto Pearson has been named “2009 Best Domestic Airport,” a distinction bestowed upon it by some 3,200 readers of Travel Press, produced by Baxter Travel Media, as part of its annual Agents’ Choice Awards. Competing against the likes of

Toronto Pearson congratulates the Toronto 2015 Pan / Parapan American Games team for winning the bid and welcomes the games to the Toronto Region. The Airport is poised to support the 16-day multi-sport event and the expected 10,000 plus athletes, officials and 250,000 visitors to the Toronto Region.

With his nose to the ground, Roni frantically sniffs around several silver paint cans. He comes across one that catches his attention and promptly sits down. “Good boy,” says his handler Domenic Capotorto, GTAA Canine Unit Officer, as he tosses him his toy – a reward for a job well done.

The GTAA applauds the decision this week by Ontario’s Minister of the Environment, John Gerretsen, to approve the environmental assessment for the Union Pearson Rail Link and Georgetown South Service Expansion project. The Minister has shown that there are benefits and value in connecting Toronto Pearson and Union Station in a reliable and efficient manner.

For the third consecutive year, the GTAA has reduced landing fees and terminal charges at Toronto Pearson International Airport. At a time when the aviation industry is struggling with declines in traffic, this reduction will result in estimated savings of $58.4 million to the airline industry at Toronto Pearson next year.

International award-winning fine art and fashion photographer Barbara Cole has been selected to showcase her latest installation White NOise at Toronto Pearson International Airport.

The GTAA, along with more than 60 leading Canadian companies, has issued a global business call to action on climate change to the UN Secretary-General. Canadian corporate leaders are calling for world governments to complete an ambitious, robust and equitable deal on climate change at the UN climate negotiations in Copenhagen this December.

The 23rd annual ARC Awards competition, organized and hosted by Mercomm, Inc. took place on the evening of September 17 at the InterContinental - The Barclay New York in New York City. Dubbed the “Academy Awards of Annual Reports,” the ARC awards is the foremost international competition honouring outstanding achievement

The GTAA has partnered with the City of Mississauga’s Culture Division to participate in Doors Open Mississauga on Saturday September 19. The Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI) at Toronto Pearson has been chosen as a feature site for the program.

A new exhibition celebrating the history of film-making in Toronto has opened just in time for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The first film was shown in Toronto on August 31, 1896, shortly after the invention of the moving picture.

The GTAA was thrilled to be honoured by the Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA) with an award for the Partners in Project Green and Pearson Eco-Business Zone program. Toronto Pearson is the first airport to win in the new Special/Innovative Projects category in the ACI-NA 2009 Environmental Achievement Awards.

It’s that time of year again. The end of summer and the end of the CNE, which means the time has come for the Canadian International Air Show.

The GTAA is pleased to announce that Korean Air Cargo, one of the largest cargo airlines in the world, will be increasing its freighter service at Toronto Pearson.

For four days over the next two weeks, passengers departing or arriving at Terminal 1 are invited to enjoy a live Aboriginal hoop dance performed by Lisa Odjig, two-time World Champion hoop dancer.

Gallery 120, found in the domestic departures area of Terminal 1, has become home to two hundred and thirty-eight beavers; that is, model Beaver aircrafts. Opened in early June, passengers can find this new art exhibition across from Gate 120 until December 4.

The federal government recently concluded a new air transport agreement with the Republic of Korea, effectively allowing any number of air carriers from either country to operate scheduled passenger and all-cargo air services as frequently as desired, to and from any point in either country's territory.

On Thursday, July 23, passengers arriving at Toronto Pearson from around the world were transported by the sounds of the Caribbean, as they were greeted by steel pan drums.

The GTAA is pleased to announce an exciting addition to the Concessions program at Toronto Pearson International Airport. Bringing a fresh new look and European flavour to the airport, Eurobar officially opened on July 2.

With the recent string of warm weather, it’s difficult to think too far ahead to winter. But with about seven months to go before the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, the Olympic buzz has started all over the country, and that includes right here at Toronto Pearson. Last month, the commemorate their sponsorship of the 2010 Vancouver Olymipcs, Air Canada installed a 258’ x 51’ mural along the

The GTAA is pleased to welcome the national carrier of Turkey, Turkish Airlines, to Toronto Pearson. The inaugural flight is scheduled to arrive at 3:40pm on Saturday, July 11. Turkish Airlines will fly between Toronto and Istanbul three times a week, on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. “We’re always excited to welcome new airlines to Toronto

In February of this year, the GTAA announced its 4-point action plan developed as a response to the economic situation currently facing our industry. Forecasts told us that our passenger levels were projected to be significantly lower this year than they were in 2008, and as a direct result, overall revenues would also be lower. Our first quarter results are showing just that; passenger traffic is

What better way to spend a beautiful Saturday morning than raising money for a great charitable cause? That’s just what thousands of people did this past weekend at the GTAA’s 2009 Runway Run at Toronto Pearson. More than 2,000 smiling and excited faces entered Runway 24L/6R just after 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 13, eager to get the race started.

On June 8, a group of Canada’s representatives to the world met at Toronto Pearson International Airport to hear from Canadian businesses on how to best serve Canada’s economy. As part of the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service, these dedicated public servants provide a valuable tool for establishing links between local and foreign

Peel Regional Police (PRP) Airport Division couldn’t have asked for a better day on June 3, when they hosted their annual Open House and Charity BBQ for Police Week and Airport Emergency Services. Clear skies and warm temperatures brought out members of the airport community and the public alike for an afternoon of good food and

The excitement was definitely in the air - and on the ground as hundreds of people gathered at Toronto Pearson for the arrival of the first scheduled A380 flight on Canadian soil. Members of the media along with about 80 members of the community group Airport Watch gathered at the Central

Monday, June 1 promises to be a very exciting day at Toronto Pearson. Everyone in the airport community is eagerly anticipating the first touch down of Emirates Airline’s A380 aircraft in Toronto. This will also mark the first regular scheduled service of the A380 in Canada. “The GTAA is honoured to be part of this historic day,” said Lloyd McCoomb, President and CEO of the GTAA. “We are

On Saturday, June 13, 2009, the GTAA is hosting its second annual Runway Run for charity. You’re invited to come out and join us for a run or walk along the airport’s most southerly runway, Runway 06R-24L. Just like last year, the runway will be closed for the event, to give you an opportunity to jog or walk alongside other active

On Wednesday, May 6, the GTAA held its Annual Public Meeting and release of the 2008 Annual Report at the airport’s Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI). The meeting was attended by members of the general public, business partners of the GTAA as well as the GTAA’s Board of Directors and Executive Team. The first presentation was given by Marilynne Day-Linton, Chair

The GTAA joined millions of other people around the globe on Wednesday, April 22, in a celebration of Earth Day at Toronto Pearson. In recognition of the GTAA’s commitment to the environment, the focus this Earth Day was on cleaning up the creek areas on the airport property. Students from two Mississauga schools were invited to come out to the airport and assist in the creek cleanup.

For the majority of travellers, the traditional check-in procedure ranks high on the list of stressful points along the journey. Rushing from the garage with luggage in tow, fumbling with documents, waiting in line; why not just avoid the process altogether? Start your next trip on the right note and check yourself in before you even get to the airport.

Passengers who booked through Conquest Vacations should verify the status of their flight with their airline prior to travelling to the airport. Shortly after noon on April 15, 2009, Conquest Vacations announced the cessation of its tour operations.

If you have ever spent any time in Toronto, you’ll know that the city has a multitude of wonderful things to offer. From Kensington Market to the Eaton Centre, from Nathan Phillips Square to Ashbridges Bay, there are endless possibilities of how to spend your time in Toronto. The challenge of how to communicate with the world all that Toronto and the surrounding areas have to offer was what led to the

The GTAA is pleased to announce that Cargolux will be beginning service at Toronto Pearson on April 20, 2009. Cargolux is Europe’s largest all-cargo airline, based in Luxembourg. This new service will provide the Canadian market with approximately 50,000 kilograms of air freight capacity on each flight. This weekly flight will be aboard the

Recent reports regarding security concerns at Toronto Pearson have been the cause of a great deal of concern and confusion. I am writing to clear the air and state my personal position as the head of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority. Very simply put, the GTAA is responsible for the security of Toronto Pearson. We work

The GTAA is pleased to welcome Pamela Griffith-Jones to its executive team. On Monday, March 30, Ms. Griffith-Jones joined the GTAA team as Vice President, Chief Marketing and Commercial Development Officer. Ms. Griffith-Jones will lead her team’s efforts in promoting the airport, developing the Toronto Pearson brand and continuing to develop revenue generating programs. Prior to joining the

This past Saturday, March 28, the GTAA participated once again in Earth Hour – an event created to reinforce the need for action on global warming and to help generate awareness of the importance of energy reduction. Between 8:30 and 9:30 p.m., energy use at Toronto Pearson was reduced by 3.3 megawatt hours, or 10.5 per

Take a tour of the unseen world of ballet. Behind the Scenes brings together items from The National Ballet of Canada’s current productions as well as historical items from the archives of the National Ballet.

Toronto Pearson has once again signed up to participate in Earth Hour. The global event is meant to raise awareness of global warming, by encouraging people and businesses to reduce power consumption for the hour of 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. on March 28. Building on the success of last year’s Earth Hour experience, the following reductions will take place at

According to the 2008/09 Airport Cargo Excellence (ACE) Survey, Toronto Pearson International Airport’s cargo operations placed second in the ”below one million tonnes” category for airports in North America. Air Cargo World, a global news authority on air logistics and freight transport, unveiled the findings on March 2 of its fifth annual ACE

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) is thrilled with today’s announcement that Emirates Airlines will introduce their Airbus A380 on the Toronto-Dubai route, effective June 1, 2009. Emirates launched three weekly flights between Toronto and Dubai in October of 2007. This move to offer service on the A380 adds capacity to the popular route, and marks the first scheduled A380 route in

March break is always a busy time at the airport. Many families will be making their way out of town early this year. The GTAA expects Friday, March 13 to be the busiest travel day leading into the winter break. Passenger traffic is expected to be more than a typical day, with 100,000 people passing through Toronto Pearson International Airport. In preparation for this busy time at the airport, it is

From March 7–11, Toronto will host baseball’s best as Team Canada, Team USA, Team Venezuela and Team Italy play the first round of the tournament in the Rogers Centre. The World Baseball Classic is held once every four years and is the game's premiere international tournament. The GTAA has partnered with Tourism Toronto and World Baseball Classic to build awareness of the games in the airport and welcome

AeroMexico began service between Toronto and Mexico City on March 2, the first of its new daily, non-stop flights. Served by a Boeing 737, this new route has been called “an important part of AeroMexico’s growth strategy for 2009,” by Frank Galan, Vice President, U.S. Division of AeroMexico. By connecting the two major cities which are

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) is pleased to announce that on February 17, Toronto Pearson International Airport was presented with the award for Best Overall Concession Program in a Large Airport Division at the 2009 Airport Revenue News (ARN) Conference & Exhibition, held in Orlando, Florida. This award is handed out

The GTAA is pleased to announce that Air India, the national flag carrier of India, will be increasing the number of flights between Toronto and Amritsar (via London) from its current frequency of three weekly flights to seven flights per week. The change is scheduled to take effect on March 29. The London stopover time of the Boeing 777-200 aircraft will be approximately two hours for flights travelling in either

During this time of economic uncertainty, the aviation industry is facing very challenging times. Global passenger traffic is down and is projected to take a further downturn throughout 2009. Transport Canada’s passenger volume forecasts are now anticipating a 5.8 per cent reduction, which translates to roughly 1.8 million fewer trips through Toronto Pearson this year.

Canadians have come to expect snow and freezing rain during the winter months. Despite the challenging winter weather, staff at Toronto Pearson have the enormous task of keeping the airport running for more than 31 million passengers that travel through Canada’s busiest airport each year.

Metrolinx announced a revised proposal on January 21, 2009 regarding the rail link between Toronto Pearson and Union Station. As part of their due diligence in preparing for the Transit Environmental Assessment Process, Metrolinx is encouraging members of the public to visit their website (www.metrolinx.com) for information on public

With the arrival of a New Year came significant fee reductions at Toronto Pearson. January 1, 2009, was the effective date for another reduction in landing fees and terminal charges paid by airlines at Toronto Pearson. As the operator of the largest airport in Canada and one of the largest airports in North America in terms of passenger

Throughout the month of December, GTAA Fire and Emergency Services held its annual food and toy drive to help families in need. Non-perishable food items and new unwrapped toys were collected in donation bins placed throughout several buildings located at Toronto Pearson.

With Christmas just around the corner, Toronto Pearson is preparing for one of the busiest travel days of the year. It is expected that more than 100,000 people will travel through the airport on Friday and around 95,000 on both Saturday and Sunday. An average day sees about 85,000 people through the airport.

The spirit of giving reached new heights during this year’s United Way fundraising campaign at the GTAA. Although economic times are tough, GTAA employees, passengers and other airport staff found a way to dig deep this year and have exceeded all expectations. Through employee donations and pledges, events such as an Airplane Pull,

On November 28, the Board of Directors of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) announced the appointment of Marilynne E. Day-Linton as Chair of the Board of Directors for a two-year term, effective January 1, 2009. Ms. Day-Linton succeeds Mr. Warren Hurren, who served as Chair of the Board since 2005.

The Airport Facilities Council (AFC) of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) recently announced the winners of the 2008 Airport Facilities Management Excellence Award. The GTAA is pleased to announce that it was awarded second place in the size category of

On November 12, Toronto Pearson International Airport was awarded first place honours in the Best Consumer Services Concept category for :10 Minute Manicure. The announcement was made during the 2008 Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA) Conference, at which more than 300 representatives of the North American airport concessions industry were in attendance.

On November 1, 2008, the new Toronto Pearson Lounge opened its doors, enhancing our travellers’ experience. The lounge is a relaxing haven available to all passengers, including those travelling on airlines without a premium lounge space at Toronto Pearson, as well as other

Employees from various companies operating at Toronto Pearson International Airport came together on October 23 in the spirit of friendly competition and to raise money for the United Way.

The GTAA is honoured to have received the Mississauga Board of Trade’s 2008 Business Award of Excellence in Corporate Governance. Recipients of this award are businesses that operate within Mississauga and demonstrate innovative practices that increase governance effectiveness and provide measurable, tangible results for

Effective January 1, 2009, the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) is reducing landing fees and terminal charges paid by airlines at Toronto Pearson International Airport. With the 25 per cent decrease in all-cargo landing fees announced earlier this year, the total projected savings of $28 million due to the reduced fees are to be passed onto the airlines in 2009.

On October 9, Partners in Project Green: A Pearson Eco-Business Zone was officially launched as a result of the combined effort and partnership between Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA). The presentation of the green strategy delivers programming to help businesses reduce resource costs, uncover new business

Coming Home, a juried art exhibition, is now open in the Terminal 1 Airspace Gallery. This show is part of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority’s ongoing effort to showcase local culture and artists through the Art and Exhibitions Program. In May 2008, the GTAA made an open call to artists residing in the 416 and 905 area codes to submit work responding to the theme “coming home.” Jurors selected works by 15 emerging and established artists from

On October 1st, the GTAA was pleased to have the opportunity to appear before the Ontario Tourism Competitiveness hearings. Lorrie McKee, Director of Public Affairs and Communications for the GTAA spoke on the airport authority’s desire to help promote tourism in Ontario and highlighted the work that already is being done to help make Toronto Pearson more competitive.

Making Toronto Pearson more accessible is the basis of the draft strategy to expand public transit to and from the airport—mapping out $50 billion in new projects over 25 years. Metrolinx previewed The Big Move: Transforming Transportation in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area plan on September 23.

The GTAA was thrilled last week to be honoured at the 22nd Annual International ARC Awards with the 2008 ARC Award for overall Best of Show for its 2007 Annual Report. Recognized as the most prestigious annual report competition internationally, the GTAA beat out 28 countries and 2,100 entries.

The staff at Toronto Pearson’s Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI) recently opened their doors to show a crew of Discovery Channel’s Daily Planet some of what happens to keep Toronto Pearson safe and how they train firefighters from all over the world to be prepared for what a firefighter encounters.

Every Bit Counts — a program of the Children’s Miracle Network — made its official debut at Toronto Pearson International Airport on September 15 with the deployment of the Globe Donation Canisters at Terminal 1.

In an effort to enhance our understanding of the travelling public’s impression of our airport, the GTAA has unveiled a text message feedback program. Modeled after the highly successful South Africa Airports System, this highly innovative research tool is the first of its kind to be launched in North America. The text-based customer experience measurement provides real-time dialogue with passengers, allowing the GTAA to effectively monitor and action on our customer’s airport experience.

On September 3, 2008, South America’s premier air carrier, LAN Airlines, began a new service from Toronto to Santiago, Chile, expanding the reach of its international network. LAN offers five flights per week to Santiago via New York City on its fleet of Boeing 767 aircraft. LAN flights operate from Toronto to Santiago on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, providing

Brampton Transit buses have become a common sight at Toronto Pearson since September 2, the date that Route 101 began service to the airport. Providing a quick and economical option for air travellers and employees alike, the regular fare route takes passengers from Bramalea City Centre, located near the intersection of Queen Street and Dixie Road, to Terminal 1 in only 25 minutes, making only

Once again, this Labour Day long weekend, the City of Toronto hosts the Canadian International Air Show (CIAS). Toronto Pearson is privileged once again to be part of the tradition. Currently in its 59th year, this year’s show will be one to remember. The 2008 show dates are Saturday, August 30, Sunday, August 31 and Monday, September 1. The show starts at 1:00 p.m. each day.

The GTAA would like to welcome home our Canadian Olympic team. After proudly winning 18 Olympic medals, many of the members of the Canadian Olympic team returned home from Beijing through Toronto Pearson. On August 25 and 26, a crowd of family, friends and well wishers, waving Canadian flags and autograph books, filled the arrivals area of Terminal 1 as they waited with great anticipation for the athletes.

In an effort to enhance our understanding of the travelling public’s impression of our airport, the GTAA is unveiling a text message feedback program. The system is the first of its kind in North America and is modeled after the highly successful South Africa Airports System. This was first used at Cape Town International Airport and later at Durban International Airport.

Brampton Transit buses will become a common sight at Toronto Pearson as of September 2, the date that Route 101 is scheduled to begin service to the airport. Providing a quick and economical option for air travellers and employees alike, the regular fare route will take passengers from Bramalea City Centre, located near the intersection of Queen Street and Dixie Road, to Terminal 1 in only 25 minutes, making only one stop for connections at the ....

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) will be welcoming Lufthansa Cargo to Toronto Pearson International Airport as of September 2, 2008. Lufthansa will be flying twice weekly service from Frankfurt using MD-11 freighters. This will provide the Canadian market with approximately 90 tonnes of air freight capacity on each flight. “It is very exciting to see Lufthansa Cargo announcing

The GTAA is pleased to announce its second juried art exhibition at Toronto Pearson. Artists residing in Ontario area codes: 416, 647, 905 and 289 are invited to submit work that deals with this year's theme: Coming Home. An airport is a powerful signifier of coming home. It is a physical place where you put your feet back on solid ground after a flight. It can be an emotional place where

GTAA launches contest to name two dinosaurs at the new Terminal 1 display. The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) has unveiled a new display at Toronto Pearson that will take passengers back to a time when pterodactyls travelled the skies instead of airplanes. The prehistoric display, A Scene from the Late Jurassic, is sure to thrill international airport travellers and visitors with two

On July 30, the flavour of the islands comes back to Toronto Pearson. Come out and celebrate Scotiabank Caribana with Garrett Burgess who will be entertaining the airport crowds with a steel pan performance. The performance will be from 3-5 p.m. in the international arrivals hall (meeter/greeter area) of Terminal 3.

Most of us have spare change in our pockets, and have probably never given much thought to how much good that money can do. Air Canada Kids’ Horizons and the Children’s Miracle Network have given this a lot of thought and are putting the money to good use. Since 1994, Air Canada Kids’ Horizons has been supporting Children’s Miracle

Toronto Pearson is Canada’s gateway to the Caribbean, linking the Greater Toronto Area with business, family, and sunshine in over 20 Caribbean destinations. As the Scotiabank Caribana festival kicks off, Canadian and international guests alike are flying into Toronto Pearson to take part in the festivities. This year, the Scotiabank Caribana festivities start for passengers as soon as they step foot in the terminal.

This Saturday, you are invited to bring your family and friends to the GTAA’s second annual Airport Open House at the Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI). There will be live demonstrations and exhibits taking place from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m., in conjunction with a charity barbecue between 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. which is catered by Norma Jeanes (www.normajeanes.com). All proceeds from the barbecue will be going to Muscular Dystrophy Canada.

Expanding the reach of its international network, South America’s premier air carrier, LAN Airlines has announced that it will begin a new service from Toronto to Santiago, Chile starting September 3, 2008. LAN will offer five flights per week to Santiago via New York City on its fleet of Boeing 767 aircraft. LAN flights will operate from Toronto to Santiago on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, providing alternatives for passengers

The GTAA had the pleasure of taking part in the City of Mississauga’s Canada Day celebrations on July 1 at City Hall. We had a great time meeting our neighbours and giving the community a sampling of daily life at the airport. Throughout the gorgeous day, we celebrated with thousands of people while they met a few members of our team, including Airside Safety Officers, Duty Managers, our special guest Quest from the GTAA’s Canine Unit, and

By late 2009, Toronto passengers will no longer need to drive to Buffalo to find cheaper flights. On Tuesday, July 8, a new codeshare partnership between WestJet and Southwest airlines was announced, which means that passengers will have the option of flying from Toronto into the United States with one of the leading US low-cost carriers.

Whether you’re flying to a domestic or international destination, every passenger departing from Toronto Pearson must go through the pre-board security screening process. Operated by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), the Crown corporation responsible for pre-board screening, the checkpoints at Toronto Pearson are often regarded as a model of efficiency—thoroughly screening passengers for the safety of fellow air travellers

With the summer season officially underway, millions of people are packing their bags and preparing to travel through Toronto Pearson to their vacation destination. To help get travellers through the security process in a fast and hassle-free manner, the Greater Toronto Airports Authority and the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority are actively reminding travellers through the media to pack

On July 1, proudly display your Canadian flag and head to the heart of Mississauga for a Canada Day celebration like no other, sponsored in part by the GTAA. Drop by and say hello to GTAA staff members who will be stationed at three “terminals” representing Toronto Pearson and answering questions from the public. The free event takes place at the Mississauga Civic Centre, 300 City Centre Dr., between 1

If you’re at any airport, it’s usually because you’re flying in or out, picking up or dropping off passengers. However, on Saturday, June 21, the GTAA hosted a very exciting event—for the first time ever, people came to Toronto Pearson to run for charity on an otherwise active runway. Runway 06R-24L closed for a few hours while members of the general public and the airport community got the chance to run next to an active runway for the Runway Run, which included both a 2 km family fun walk and 5 km timed run.

The GTAA will reduce cargo landing fees at Toronto Pearson by 25 per cent, effective January 1, 2009. This fee reduction will encourage cargo businesses to choose Toronto Pearson for the movement of their goods, boosting the competitiveness of Canada’s leading cargo gateway.

This coming Saturday, June 21, the GTAA will be hosting a new and very exciting event at the airport – a Runway Run! Participants will be running or walking along Runway 06R-24L to raise money for the William Osler Health Centre’s Emergency Department at Etobicoke General Hospital, and have a lot of fun. There will be two events: a 5 km timed run, and a 2 km family run/walk. And yes, the runway will be closed for this event.

In addition to being Canada’s busiest airport, Toronto Pearson has its own mini-ecosystem encompassing forests, grasslands, creeks, and streams, as well as runways, terminal buildings, and roadways. The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) recognizes the need to protect these natural resources while continuing to meet the demands of a growing air travel industry.

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) is taking part in Ontario’s first ever Energy Conservation Week, happening this week from May 25-31. Several initiatives to reduce the amount of electrical energy that the GTAA consumes will be noticeable in the terminals. “The GTAA is serious about saving energy, reducing greenhouse gases and acting responsibly,” said Irene Hawrylyshyn, General Manager of Corporate Social Responsibility and Cultural Affairs.

Beginning May 26, 2008, and running for three weeks into June, the arrivals halls of Toronto Pearson International Airport’s Terminals 1 and 3 become a high-profile stage for Canada’s largest music festival in a first-of-its-kind project called “NXNE at YYZ.” Independent bands from Toronto and around the world will play free shows for arriving passengers and those waiting for arriving family and friends. It’s all part of a new direction for the North by Northeast (NXNE) music festival and marks a first for Toronto Pearson.

If you are scheduled to travel with Air India or are picking up an Air India passenger at Toronto Pearson International Airport on or after May 16, 2008, please be advised that the airline will operate from Terminal 1 effective that date. Air India will move its operations from Terminal 3 to Terminal 1 to join its future Star Alliance partners. Star Alliance is the largest airline network in the world, offering nearly 18,000 daily flights and serving more than 950 destinations in 160 countries. Air India is expected to be a full Star Alliance member by February 1, 2009.

With more than 31 million people travelling through Toronto Pearson every year, the GTAA wants to make sure it’s passengers are able to take advantage of all the airport has to offer. As a result, the GTAA has a new online service that will allow travellers to find the most efficient way through the terminal building while enjoying the many services offered along the way. Before arriving at the airport, passengers will now be able to view the GTAA’s Airport Wayfinder video that provides the step by step route that passengers will take travelling through Terminal 1 at Toronto Pearson.

In early May, Pacific Western unveiled a fleet of luxury green motor coaches for their Airport Express service. Linking Toronto Pearson International Airport to nine locations in the downtown Toronto core, the coaches offer a convenient, economical and green way to get to and from the airport. At full occupancy, the fully accessible coaches take up to 54 passenger vehicles off the road, reducing each passenger’s CO2 emissions by up to 85 per cent and proving to be 475 per cent more energy efficient than a hybrid car.

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) held its annual public meeting on Wednesday, May 7, 2008. The meeting reviewed the operational, economic and environmental successes accomplished throughout 2007 as well as the challenges that were overcome. The meeting also gave a look ahead at 2008 and served as an inviting forum for those in attendance to pose questions to the GTAA’s executive team. Toby Lennox, Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Communications, first introduced Warren Hurren, Chairman of the Board, to review the past year.

As of May 2, this is how Toronto Pearson passengers will be greeted aboard their Icelandair flight bound for Reykjavik. Iceland’s national carrier began service from Toronto Pearson’s Terminal 1 on May 2, 2008. This decision was made after a new open skies agreement was reached in July 2007 between Iceland and Canada, which allows airlines of both countries to operate flights between any city in Canada and Iceland without restrictions on the number of flights.

As of May 1, passengers can fly direct between Toronto and Dusseldorf, Germany. Lufthansa, one of the world’s largest air carriers, is offering service to Dusseldorf six times a week, allowing passengers the convenience of 35-minute connections to more than 50 popular European destinations including Barcelona, Budapest, Moscow, Munich, Paris and many others. “I am always excited to be a part of milestones such as this,” said GTAA President and CEO Lloyd McCoomb at a welcome event for the new route.

On April 26, 2008, GO Transit introduced Route 40, providing travellers and airport employees alike with a convenient way of reaching the heart of both Mississauga and Richmond Hill. Westbound from the airport, GO Bus service between Toronto Pearson and the GO Bus Terminal located at the Square One shopping centre operates every 30 minutes for a total of 86 trips daily. This route also affords passengers easy connections to Mississauga Transit at Square One.

Toronto Pearson International Airport has joined the global aviation industry in a declaration on climate change that was signed by industry leaders at the Aviation & Environment Summit in Geneva, Switzerland. More than 300 of the world’s airports have also signed the declaration.

On Friday, April 18, grade five students from Dunrankin Drive Public School in Malton put on their gloves and helped the GTAA perform a 20-Minute Makeover on Toronto Pearson. Joining other companies, schools and residents, the GTAA was a proud participant in the GTA-wide initiative. The students pitched in to help clean up a portion of land that will be used for a future walking and cycling trail, which will run through the airport property.

On Saturday, June 21, 2008, the GTAA will be hosting a new and very exciting event at the airport – a Runway Run! Come out to the airport to run or walk along Runway 06R-24L. Raise money for the William Osler Health Centre’s Emergency Department at Etobicoke General Hospital, and have a lot of fun. There will be two events: a 5 km timed run, and a 2 km family run/walk. And yes, the runway will be closed for this event.

In partnership with the Medtronic Foundation, the GTAA launched its new Heart Cart program at Toronto Pearson International Airport on April 9, 2008. The program is the largest public access defibrillation program of its kind in Canada and is designed to provide public awareness regarding the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in the airport community.

This past Saturday, March 29, the GTAA joined millions of others across the globe to reduce energy consumption in support of Earth Hour–-an event created to deliver a powerful message about the need for action on global warming. In preparing for Earth Hour, the GTAA found permanent ways to reduce its energy use on a daily basis.

If you are scheduled to travel on US Airways or are coming to Toronto Pearson Airport to pick up a US Airways passenger on or after March 29, 2008, please be advised that as of that date, the airline will be relocating to Terminal 1. US Airways will move all its operations from Terminal 3 to Terminal 1 to join its Star Alliance partners. Star Alliance is the largest airline network in the world, offering 17,000 daily flights and serving more than 900 destinations in 160 countries.

By recently adding its name to a list of more than 4,000 businesses around the world, the GTAA became the first airport in North America to confirm its participation in Earth Hour; an event created to deliver a powerful message about the need for action on global warming. Travellers passing through the airport today from 8-9 p.m. will experience a noticeable difference in the lighting levels at both terminals as we join the world for Earth Hour 2008.

Many travellers will be attempting to get a jumpstart on their winter break this Friday. The GTAA anticipates Friday, March 7 to be the busiest travel day leading into the March Break. Passenger traffic is expected to increase by 14 per cent compared to a typical day, with more than 100,000 people passing through Toronto Pearson International Airport.

To celebrate Icelandair’s upcoming service from Toronto, a gaggle of staff and actors dressed as swans have descended on Toronto Pearson International Airport. The swans, based in Terminal 1 from March 3–9 between noon and 6 p.m., will offer airport customers a chance to win a deluxe trip to Iceland on Icelandair’s inaugural flight, May 2, 2008.

Toronto Pearson is taking on a new look as HSBC Bank Canada, the Greater Toronto Airports Authority and Clear Channel Outdoor unveil one of the world’s most extensive airport branding campaigns. The agreement between the GTAA, Clear Channel Outdoor and HSBC Bank Canada will give the bank branding rights for the exterior and interior surfaces of 86 gates and 91 jet bridges located at both Terminal 1 and 3 at Toronto Pearson.

Studies have shown that approximately 65,000 vehicle trips are made every day to Toronto Pearson International Airport. The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) is committed to improving the public transit offering to make getting to and from the Airport as easy and environmentally friendly as possible.

Inevitably, airport infrastructure is big, and it takes long lead times to plan and construct. With the opening of the International Pier in Terminal 1 in January 2007, much of the work set out in the Airport’s 1999 Master Plan – which covered the timeframe 2000 to 2020 – now is complete. It was important, therefore, for the GTAA to update and produce a new master plan that looks ahead to 2030.

Toronto Pearson celebrated another milestone on Monday, January 28. At 10:25 a.m., a CanJet 737 aircraft destined for St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport was deiced at the Central Deicing Facility (CDF), becoming the 100,000th aircraft to be deiced in the facility’s 10 years of operation.

The installation of two new Express Moving Walkways (EMW), which began in mid-September of 2006, is now completed. Over the next few months, they will be put through a rigorous testing and commissioning process. These high-speed walkways, measuring 280 metres in length, will provide international outbound and inbound passengers a speedier third option of getting to and from their gates. They can walk, take a series of normal speed moving walkways, and once all the testing is completed, they will also be able to take the new EMWs.

Toby Lennox, GTAA Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Communications, appeared this week before the Honourable Dwight Duncan, Minister of Finance, as part of the 2008 Ontario budget discussion. Mr. Lennox highlighted how the GTAA can work with the Province of Ontario to better leverage Toronto Pearson in order to generate new economic development opportunities and boost tourism.

New WestJet services will give Toronto travellers even more options for Canadian destinations. The new routes are scheduled to begin on May 18 and will include daily flights from Toronto to Regina, Saskatoon, Quebec City, and Abbotsford. The Quebec City announcement was made to coincide with the celebration of the Quebec captial's 400th anniversary, and marks WestJet's 27th destination within Canada, connecting WestJet to more than 25 million Canadians.

Only two weeks into 2008 and the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) welcomed Toronto Pearson’s one millionth passenger. On January 14, 2008, Dr. Weiping Huang of Ancaster arrived on Air Canada flight 032 from Beijing at 2:45 p.m. in Terminal 1. As the one millionth passenger of the year, Dr. Huang was given one free year of valet parking service at Toronto Pearson as well as 10 complimentary parking day passes. Dr. Huang will now be able to simply pull up to the curb at Terminal 1 and leave his vehicle with parking attendants.

Today, with Terminal 1 fully activated and operational, the GTAA is considered a world leader in airport facility activation and its Airport Development Program is a world-renowned example of best practices and innovation. With these successes, the Facility Activation Team has moved on to a new challenge: a consultancy service to share the best practices, innovation, and in-depth knowledge it has gained rebuilding a major international airport while maintaining full operations without shutting down for a day.

Over the past few weeks, the GTA has seen it all. Snow, rain, freezing rain, high winds and low temperatures have affected much of the country. Mother Nature has begun to show her true colours and has left most to wonder if they are properly prepared for the upcoming winter.

With many people reuniting with family and friends over the holiday season, the airport is preparing for one of the busiest weekends of the year at Toronto Pearson. The airport is expecting to see about 100,000 passengers travel through its doors on both Friday, December 21, and Saturday, December 22. On an average day, about 85,000 passengers travel through Toronto Pearson.

The GTAA issued the following comments regarding the Transportation Safety Board’s (TSB) report on the overrun of Flight 358, which landed at Toronto Pearson on August 2, 2005, and subsequently overran Runway 24L where a fire ensued. There were no fatalities in the accident.

The GTAA and Peel Regional Police unveiled the new T3 Motion Electric Vehicles on Tuesday, November 20, 2007, at Toronto Pearson.

As the holiday season approaches and to-do lists begin to grow, free time becomes a rarity. During this busy season, recognizing ways in which people can save time and fly smart can prove valuable. One relatively new program aimed at helping travellers in a time crunch speed up their travels is NEXUS, and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has just added another reason to take advantage of the many benefits offered by the program. On December 1, 2007, the NEXUS application fee will be reduced to C$50 from its current rate of C$80.

Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) employees should be very proud of their achievements in this year’s United Way Campaign. At the close of the campaign, more than 200% of the target, or $81,000, was achieved. This is amazing. Although the campaign has come to a close at the GTAA, the United Way of Peel Region’s campaign confidently marches on.

One of the world’s most successful and fastest growing international airlines began service at Toronto Pearson on October 29th, 2007. Emirates has selected the Toronto to Dubai route as their first gateway in Canada. “Responding to market demand, the new route will provide a first direct link between Canada’s largest city and Dubai, providing also convenient, ongoing access to the Middle East, Africa and the South Asian Subcontinent,” said HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group.

In a joint partnership between Air Canada and the GTAA, a pilot project is underway aimed at speeding up check-in for passengers on the run at Terminal 1. The self service baggage tagging system is a quick and convenient way for domestic customers to check-in at an electronic kiosk as opposed to waiting in line.

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) is pleased to announce a reduction in fees charged to airlines for all services as of January 1, 2008. Landing fees will be reduced by 3.1% and terminal charges will be reduced by 4.7%.

With the City of Mississauga, Heritage Mississauga, and the Toronto Aerospace Museum, the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) was honoured to host the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Avro Arrow at Terminal 1. This event commemorated the day when the first Avro Arrow aircraft rolled off the Malton production line in 1957.

If you’ve visited the terminals lately and wondered why a lot of staff are in jeans, it’s not a new uniform; it’s part of an exciting fundraising campaign organized by the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA). On September 15th, the United Way of Peel Region launched its 2007 “United We Are Stronger” campaign, revealing their goal of $14 million to be achieved through donations raised through numerous national events. The GTAA has designed an employee campaign determined to surpass last year’s contribution total of $36,700. With events such as “Denim Days”, a “Lost and Found Silent Auction” and biweekly 50/50 draws, the GTAA hopes to raise $40,000 for the United Way.

On Monday, September 17, the annual Pearson Airport Firefighters Charity Golf Tournament was held at the Burlington Springs Golf Club. Through sponsorships and raffles, more than $4,400 was raised, with proceeds going to the Children’s Wish Foundation—a charity long supported by GTAA Emergency Services.

The city of Toronto was abuzz recently with the glitz and glamour that comes with hosting the 32nd Toronto International Film Festival. Star spotting was a favourite pastime for many festival goers as celebrities from all movie genres descended upon the city, but this isn’t the only time that Hollywood headliners visit our great town.

On Sept. 5th, the GTAA will proudly welcome the inaugural flight of Jet Airways, one of India’s premier airlines, into Toronto Pearson’s Terminal 1.

Toronto Pearson International Airport is privileged once again to be part of the Labour Day tradition known as the Canadian International Air Show (CIAS). Currently in its 58th year, this year’s show will be one to remember; celebrating the beauty of flight with the sounds of pure power from fighter jets to the tranquility of the glider. The three hour show will include both military and civilian acts.

Shortly after 4 p.m. on August 14, 2003, the lights went out across Ontario and many Northeastern and Midwestern States during what turned out to be one of the most widespread blackouts in history. Along with the rest of the province, Toronto Pearson International Airport was also without power from the Provincial grid. But even before the blackout, the GTAA had realized that relying on the power grid for uninterrupted service was not in the best interests of Ontario businesses and passengers that rely on Toronto Pearson.

Since the closure of Terminal 2 in January of this year, there have been many changes to the landscape of Toronto Pearson. With the terminal closed and in the process of being demolished, the roads and bridges that lead to Terminal 2 were no longer necessary.

Airports Council International (ACI) has released the 2006 numbers on passenger and cargo statistics for world airports. Passenger activity at Toronto Pearson in 2006 was up 3.5% from 2005, processing 31 million passengers, placing it at number 29 in the world ranking.

In addition to the “hack” that took place on July 5 that saw two Gyr/Saker hybrid falcons join the GTAA, two more falcons of the same breed were welcomed into its wildlife management program at Toronto Pearson International Airport on Thursday, July 12. Falcons are employed at Toronto Pearson to act as a deterrent to other birds that either live at or transit through airport property.

On Monday, July 9, the media was invited to a sneak preview of GTAA’s new Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI). On Saturday, July 14, the FESTI will open its doors to the public. Special events are planned throughout the day, including a charity BBQ with proceeds going to the Children’s Wish Foundation.

On Friday, June 15th, Team GTAA participated in the Canadian Cancer Society Relay for Life in Milton, Ontario. The eight member team from Corporate Affairs, Marketing and Business Development departments raised $1,400 for the cause.

More than two dozen GTAA employees recently stepped out of their regular work environment, lathering on sunscreen and arming themselves with a supply of garbage bags, to be a part of the annual Spring Creek cleanup. This yearly activity organized by the GTAA’s Environment department allows employees to take a hands on role in the beautification of the airport while making a positive contribution to the natural environment.

The Flagship Detroit, an American Airlines (AA) DC-3 is currently stationed at Toronto Pearson International Airport. The Flagship Detroit is the sister aircraft to the first international aircraft that landed at Malton Airport nearly seventy years ago. That DC-3 was an American Airlines flight arriving from Buffalo, New York.

A GTAA team recently participated in the 23rd annual World Partnership Walk which took place in eight Canadian cities on Sunday, May 27th. The walk is a fundraiser to help fight global poverty. The largest national event of its kind in Canada, the Walk this year is estimated to have raised a record amount and to have brought out more walkers than ever. The total of funds raised will be announced shortly.

The GTAA hosted its annual public meeting on Wednesday, May 9, 2007. The Board of Directors and GTAA senior staff were on hand to answer questions from the public and to present an overview of 2006 developments at the airport. Steve Shaw, Vice President, Corporate Affairs first introduced Warren Hurren, Chairman of the Board, to review 2006 and to announce the appointment of two new

Mr. Warren Hurren, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (“GTAA”) today announced the appointment of Dr. Lloyd A. McCoomb as President and Chief Executive Officer effective February 1, 2007.

The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, along with the Honourable Stockwell Day,Minister of Public Safety, recently announced changes to the aviation security measures put in place on August 10, 2006 that will allow passengers to bring limited quantities of liquids, gels and aerosols with them when they travel, while maintaining a heightened level of security.

In 2005, nearly 410,000 aircraft movements transported people and goods to and from Toronto. And while mainstream commercial aviation represents most of that figure, another sector of operations is making a comeback thanks to the redevelopment of existing infrastructure and a commitment from key leaders in the industry.

Towards the beginning of September, the GTAA was informed by The Institute of Transport Management (ITM) that Toronto Pearson had been awarded the title of “Best Global Airport 2006.”