Toronto Pearson Airport Terminal Guide

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is Canada's largest and busiest airport, serving over 50 million passengers annually. With two main terminals and numerous gates, navigating Pearson efficiently requires some know-how. This guide will help you master the airport like a seasoned traveler.

Terminal Overview

Terminal 1

The larger, newer terminal serving:

• Air Canada and Star Alliance partners
• Most international flights
• Approximately 35 million passengers annually

Terminal 3

Serving:

• WestJet and Oneworld partners
• Various international and domestic carriers
• Charter and low-cost airlines

Important: There is no Terminal 2—it was consolidated into Terminal 1 during renovations.

Arriving at the Airport

Recommended Arrival Times

• Domestic Flights: 90 minutes before departure
• US Flights: 2 hours (US customs preclearance)
• International Flights: 3 hours before departure
• Peak Travel Times: Add 30 minutes during holidays and summer

Drop-Off and Pickup Zones

Terminal 1:

• Departures (upper level): Follow signs for specific airline groups
• Arrivals (ground level): Multiple designated pickup zones
• Cell Phone Lot: Free short-term waiting area

Terminal 3:

• Departures (Level 2)
• Arrivals (Level 1)
• Cell Phone Lot available

Terminal 1 Navigation

Layout

Terminal 1 is organized into three piers:

• Pier A: Gates A1-A28 (US departures)
• Pier B: Gates B1-B34 (international departures)
• Pier C: Gates C1-C43 (domestic and international)

Getting Around

• Walking: Well-signed, but distances can be significant (10-15 minutes between far gates)
• Automated People Mover: No longer in service; use moving walkways
• Wheelchair Assistance: Available through your airline

Amenities and Services

• Dining: 50+ restaurants and cafes throughout
• Shopping: Duty-free, retail stores, and Canadian brands
• Lounges: Multiple Air Canada and partner lounges
• WiFi: Free throughout the terminal
• Charging Stations: Available at many gates

Terminal 3 Navigation

Layout

Simpler, more compact design:

• Single main concourse
• Gates organized numerically
• Easier to navigate than Terminal 1

Amenities

• Dining: Variety of options from fast food to sit-down restaurants
• Shopping: Duty-free and retail stores
• Lounges: Limited compared to Terminal 1
• WiFi: Free throughout

Security and Customs

Security Screening

Tips for Faster Processing:

• Have boarding pass and ID ready
• Remove electronics larger than a phone
• Liquids in clear, quart-sized bag
• Wear slip-on shoes
• Empty pockets before screening

NEXUS/Fast Track: If eligible, use dedicated lanes for faster processing.

US Preclearance (Terminal 1)

Pearson offers US Customs preclearance:

• Clear US customs before departure
• Arrive as a domestic passenger in the US
• Allow extra time for US security questions
• Questions about travel purpose, duration, and declarations

Arrival Process

International Arrivals

1. Deplane and Follow Signs: Clear directional signage to customs
2. Primary Inspection: Present passport and customs declaration
3. Baggage Claim: Collect checked luggage
4. Secondary Inspection: If selected, proceed for additional screening
5. Exit to Arrivals: Meet your driver or proceed to ground transportation

Domestic Arrivals

1. Deplane
2. Collect baggage
3. Exit to arrivals hall

Ground Transportation

Meeting Your Chauffeur

For pre-arranged limo service:

• Exit to arrivals level
• Look for driver with name sign
• Designated meeting areas near baggage claim exits
• Driver tracks your flight for delays

Other Options

• Taxis: Designated taxi stands outside both terminals
• Ride-Share: Designated pickup zones
• Public Transit: UP Express train to downtown Toronto (25 minutes)
• Rental Cars: Shuttle to rental facility

Pro Tips

For Departures

• Check-in online 24 hours before your flight
• Use app or email boarding passes to save time
• Know your gate before arrival (subject to change)
• Eat before security—options are pricier inside
• Download airline app for real-time updates

For Arrivals

• Use bathroom before exiting secure area
• Know your baggage carousel number
• Have customs declaration ready
• Confirm driver pickup location before landing
• Currency exchange available, but rates better elsewhere

Business Traveler Tips

• Enroll in NEXUS for faster border crossing
• Join airline lounge programs for comfortable waiting areas
• Use TSA PreCheck lanes (US flights)
• Book professional transportation for predictable, stress-free travel

Important Contacts

• Airport Information: 416-247-7678
• Lost and Found: 416-776-3732
• Paging: Available through airlines
• Airport Website: torontopearson.com

Planning Your Transportation

The key to stress-free airport travel is reliable ground transportation. Professional limo service provides:

• Flight tracking for pickup time adjustments
• Meet and greet service at arrivals
• Luggage assistance
• Direct route to your destination
• Professional drivers familiar with all terminals

Whether departing or arriving, knowing Toronto Pearson's layout and processes helps you navigate efficiently. Combine this knowledge with professional transportation, and you'll experience stress-free airport travel every time.