Toronto Pearson International Airport is set for a major transformation over the next decade as part of its Long-Term Capital Investment Program (LIFT), aimed at modernizing and expanding the terminal to accommodate growing passenger demand. With 45 million passengers passing through the airport in 2023, the airport plans to handle 65 million passengers annually by 2030—a 50% increase. The improvements will focus on enhancing convenience, efficiency, and passenger experience through a combination of space expansion, the latest technology, and new amenities.
Key aspects of the renovation:
- Security and Immigration Upgrades:
- Pearson will add 25 new CATSA security checkpoints to streamline the security process.
- A new 7,000-square-foot U.S. pre-entry screening area will be established for U.S.-bound passengers.
- The CBSA immigration screening area will expand by 4,000 square meters to accommodate international passengers.
- An automated system will be implemented to further streamline security and entry procedures.
- Expanded Amenities:
- The duty-free and restaurant space will expand to 13,000 square meters, enhancing the shopping and dining experience for passengers.
- New shopping and dining areas will reflect the latest trends to meet passenger needs.
- Airport Infrastructure:
- The parking facilities will be modernized, and wider, more comfortable seating will be introduced at departure gates and waiting areas.
- Nature-friendly design principles will be integrated into the terminal’s layout to create a more comfortable environment for travellers.
- Runway and Aircraft Movement Optimization:
- A 2-kilometer section of the runway will be reconstructed, and 100,000 square meters of concrete will be repaved to improve aircraft flow.
- The introduction of the latest aviation technologies will help optimize take-off and landing speeds, with a focus on environmentally friendly operations.
- Environmental and Operational Improvements:
- The project will also enhance cargo handling capacity, improve baggage systems, optimize aircraft take-off and landing times, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions as part of sustainability efforts.
The planning phase is currently underway, with a pre-qualification review set for the next two months. The process will include receiving project proposals, selecting a company to proceed, and finalizing detailed designs by mid-2026. Construction is expected to begin in earnest at that time.
This extensive overhaul aims to strengthen Toronto Pearson’s position as Canada’s top international hub, not just by improving passenger experience, but also through environmental and operational upgrades. The project is expected to reinforce its reputation as one of the best workplaces in Canada while improving its status as a key gateway for international travel.