Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) — Complete Guide for 2026
YYZ at a Glance
Terminal 1 vs Terminal 3 — Which is Yours?
| Terminal | Airlines | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | Air Canada, Star Alliance partners, most international airlines | International flights, Air Canada |
| Terminal 3 | WestJet, Sunwing, Air Transat, some US carriers | Domestic, sun destinations, charter flights |
The two terminals are connected by a free shuttle bus and the LINK train (also free). Allow at least 15 minutes to transfer between terminals if needed.
Getting to YYZ — Best Options
UP Express (Best Option)
The Union Pearson Express train is the fastest and most reliable way to get to YYZ from downtown Toronto. Trains run every 15 minutes and the journey takes 25 minutes. Cost is $12.35 CAD one way, or $6.20 with a Presto card loaded with your transit fare.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Rideshare from downtown Toronto to YYZ typically costs $35–$60 CAD depending on traffic and time of day. Budget extra time during rush hour — the Gardiner Expressway can add 30+ minutes to your trip.
Airport Parking
On-site parking at Pearson is convenient but expensive. For trips longer than a couple of days, consider Park 'N Fly or similar off-site parking with shuttle service — typically 40-50% cheaper than the official Pearson lots.
Insider Tips for YYZ
- Arrive at least 2.5 hours before international flights, 90 minutes for domestic
- NEXUS card holders get priority security lanes — worth applying if you travel frequently to the US
- Terminal 1 has better food options airside — Tim Hortons, various sit-down restaurants
- Free WiFi throughout both terminals — connect to "Pearson Airport WiFi"
- The Maple Leaf Lounge (Air Canada) is in both terminals — access with Aeroplan status or credit card
- Currency exchange at the airport has terrible rates — use a no-fee bank card abroad instead
- Pre-clear US customs at YYZ before your flight — saves significant time on arrival in the US
Security wait times at Pearson vary significantly by time of day. The busiest periods are 5–9am and 2–6pm. If possible, try to fly outside these windows. Check the CATSA (canadien Air Transport Security Authority) website or app for real-time wait times before heading to the airport.
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