Toronto Pearson Says It Is Ready For The Challenges Of Winter

Image: Toronto Pearson says operational improvements should smooth winter travel. (Photo Credit: Toronto Pearson Airport)
Image: Toronto Pearson says operational improvements should smooth winter travel. (Photo Credit: Toronto Pearson Airport)
Bruce Parkinson
by Bruce Parkinson
Last updated: 5:45 AM ET, Mon December 4, 2023

Ahead of the 2023-2024 winter travel and holiday season, Toronto Pearson International Airport has announced operational improvements designed to meet and maintain its readiness throughout the always challenging winter months. 

Initiatives include increased staffing, expanded de-icing capacity, newly commissioned advanced snowplows, and the implementation of cutting-edge predictive technologies for weather and delay forecasting.

As well, the airport says an AI-based system has been put into place for more efficient baggage handling through the proactive identification and resolution of common, potential issues that may otherwise interrupt the flow of operations. 

The measures were outlined at a press conference featuring Deborah Flint, President and CEO of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority, and Todd Browne, Associate Director, Airfield Operations). 

Aéroport Pearson de Toronto

Toronto Pearson airport. (Photo Credit: Aéroport Pearson de Toronto)

"We were pleased with the successful summer travel season because all of our aviation and agency partners, like airlines and NAV Canada, were significantly more resilient,” said Flint.

“By taking proactive steps to manage congestion and by closely collaborating with them, On-Time Performance (OTP) improved measurably – to the tune of a 6% increase this month, which represents a 10% increase over the same period last year for all carriers – as well as a reduction in airplane holds from over 1,700 in Summer 2022 to 13 in Summer 2023." 

Toronto Pearson is dedicated to empowering passengers with greater control over their journey. Services such as YYZ Express for faster processing, Mobile Passport Control for expedited pre-clearance into the United States, and advanced declaration for efficient customs and immigration advanced declaration will continue to be promoted for passenger convenience. 

"We are committed to providing our passengers with a predictable, reliable, and enjoyable travel experience. We continue to invest in expanding and modernizing facilities and equipment, as well as increased staffing, to deliver a high-quality experience at Toronto Pearson, which is one element of our dedication to excellence," said Flint.

"Winter will always bring challenging weather, so we are reinforcing tools to equip passengers with more information and control over their travel experience. There is nothing like the energy of the holiday travel season, and we enthusiastically welcome you here at Toronto Pearson," she added. 

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