Toronto Pearson has launched a major airport modernization project as part of Pearson LIFT, a long-term infrastructure program designed to expand capacity, improve passenger journeys and modernize operations at Canada’s busiest airport.
The first phase of the project includes a $3 billion investment in airside and baggage systems. Airport officials said the upgrades will support millions of additional passengers, improve aircraft movements and create a faster and more reliable experience from curb to gate.
Toronto Pearson marked the start of construction with a ceremonial groundbreaking attended by senior government officials, airport partners and construction teams. Among those present were the Honourable Shafqat Ali, President of the Treasury Board of Canada; the Honourable Prabmeet Sarkaria, Ontario’s Minister of Transportation; and Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton.
Pearson LIFT, which stands for Long-term Investment in Facilities and Terminals, is a phased multi-billion-dollar program aimed at renewing infrastructure, introducing advanced technologies and expanding airport facilities over the coming decade.
The initial works focus on upgrading airfield and baggage operations. Plans include a new airfield lighting control and management system designed to improve visibility and aircraft guidance across runways and taxiways.
The airport said the technology will help build a digitally connected airfield capable of supporting future navigation systems and more efficient aircraft movements on the ground.
The modernization program also includes sustainability measures such as expanded electric vehicle charging infrastructure, cleaner heating systems and energy network upgrades aimed at supporting lower-emission airport operations.
Toronto Pearson will also invest in approximately 30 kilometres of baggage infrastructure. The project includes new baggage carousels in Terminal 1, as well as cameras and sensors designed to detect problems early and reduce baggage system downtime.
The airport’s airfield will expand and renew a 2.2 million square metre area, equivalent to more than 1,000 NHL-size hockey rinks. The work includes new aircraft stands and a high-speed taxiway to improve movement between gates and runways.
Airport officials said the expansion could support up to 28,000 additional passengers per day.
“Today marks a pivotal moment, the culmination of three years of planning, analysis, competitive procurement and collaboration with industry partners and air carriers to deliver a state-of-the-art airfield that will make Toronto Pearson one of the most efficient and digitally-advanced airports in the industry,” said Deborah Flint, President and CEO of Toronto Pearson.
“This is an investment that increases capacity for global trade with Canada. Passengers can be more confident in their journeys through North America’s 2nd most internationally-connected airport,” she said.
Toronto Pearson said the wider Pearson LIFT program will allow the airport to grow to 65 million passengers annually. Based on analysis by Oxford Economics, the project is expected to create 16,000 new jobs at the airport, support more than 160,000 jobs nationwide and contribute $30 billion to the Canadian economy.
The airport added that additional investment announcements and facility expansion plans will be revealed later this year as work on the long-term modernization program continues.
Photo shows: Deborah Flint, President and CEO, Toronto Pearson, Minister Ali, Minister Sarkaria and Mayor Brown are joined by board members, municipal leaders and construction partners for the groundbreaking of Pearson LIFT. (CNW Group/Toronto Pearson)
