A massive multibillion-dollar redevelopment project is officially underway at Toronto Pearson International Airport, with airport officials describing it as one of the largest airport infrastructure projects in Canadian history.
The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA), which operates Pearson Airport, broke ground Monday on the first phase of its long-term modernization initiative known as Pearson LIFT — a decade-long transformation plan aimed at expanding capacity, improving efficiency and modernizing airport operations.
The project begins with an initial investment of approximately $3 billion focused on upgrading critical airfield and terminal infrastructure to support future passenger growth and improve overall airport performance.
Airport officials say the plan will modernize and expand Pearson while introducing advanced technologies, greener operations and improved passenger services designed to handle rising travel demand over the next decade and beyond.
Key features of the first phase include:
- Advanced airfield lighting and digital navigation systems to improve aircraft movement and runway safety
- Expanded electric vehicle charging infrastructure and cleaner energy systems to reduce emissions
- Major baggage system upgrades, including new carousels, sensors and monitoring technology across nearly 30 kilometres of baggage infrastructure
- Expansion of Pearson’s 2.2-million-square-metre airfield with new aircraft stands and a high-speed taxiway to improve aircraft flow and support up to 28,000 additional passengers daily
Officials say the improvements are intended to create a smoother, faster and more reliable experience for travellers while also strengthening Pearson’s role as a major international transportation hub.
Deborah Flint, president and CEO of Toronto Pearson Airport, called the groundbreaking a “pivotal moment” following several years of planning and collaboration with industry partners and airlines.
“This is an investment that increases capacity for global trade with Canada,” Flint said. “Passengers can be more confident in their journeys through North America’s second-most internationally connected airport.”
According to the GTAA, the Pearson LIFT program is expected to eventually increase airport capacity to approximately 65 million passengers annually — nearly 20 million more than current levels.
Airport officials also estimate the project will:
- Create approximately 16,000 new airport jobs
- Support more than 160,000 jobs across Canada
- Contribute roughly $30 billion to the Canadian economy
- Generate more than $10 billion annually in spending with Canadian suppliers
Future phases of the project will include additional terminal revitalization and expansion plans as Pearson prepares for long-term growth in international travel and trade.
Located in Mississauga, Toronto Pearson remains Canada’s largest and busiest airport and one of the country’s most significant transportation and economic hubs.