Provided by Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA)/CNW
Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) ramping up passenger assistance programs to prepare passengers for summer travel peaks
TORONTO, July 15, 2019 /CNW/ – Canada’s busiest airport—also North America’s most internationally connected airport—is preparing passengers for a record-breaking summer travel season. Toronto Pearson is expecting 10.7 million passengers between Canada Day and Labour Day long weekend this year, an increase of over 11% from summer 2016. To prepare for this record-setting volume, passengers are strongly encouraged to plan ahead so that they can beat crowds and enjoy their airport experience to the fullest.
“We are expecting another record-breaking summer as passengers take advantage of Toronto Pearson’s world-class services, amenities, and connectivity,” says Scott Collier, Vice President of Customer and Terminal Services, Greater Toronto Airports Authority. “Toronto Pearson has been named Best Large Airport in North America serving more than 40 million passengers by Airports Council International for two years in a row. That recognition is made possible by the collaboration of 50,000 airport workers and partners, a team that is committed to giving every passenger the best travel experience possible. In-terminal staff are readily available to assist and make sure that every journey begins and ends on a high note.”
Passengers travelling through Toronto Pearson are encouraged to visit www.torontopearson.com prior to travel and can use various tools to prepare, including this list of tips and resources that will help to beat the summer rush:
- Get informed before arriving:
- A digital public education program will run throughout summer, offering online resources and a helping hand to members of the public who are planning summer travel.
- Pearson recently launched a new website that puts the answer to any question at passengers’ fingertips, available at www.torontopearson.com. The intuitive Departures Guide offers customized step-by-step guidance and information about special offers.
- Don’t worry, be app-y:
- The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) has developed an app for air travellers who want to know what can and cannot be taken on a plane. It even includes wait times for security screening at major Canadian airports, including Toronto Pearson.
- Passengers travelling internationally should download Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) eDeclaration app, which lets a passenger complete a customs declaration for up to five people travelling together, creating a scannable barcode that saves time in the customs hall.
- Ask our staff for help:
- Over 600 airport employees can be deployed throughout the terminals for customer service and assistance, including the newly introduced St. John Ambulance therapy dogs.
- Passengers are being reminded to follow @torontopearson on Twitter for operational updates and to call 416-AIRPORT at any time if they have questions or concerns.
- Make arrangements ahead of time:
- Pre-plan your transport to the airport, whether it be by taxi, limo, rail, rideshare or bus. Information on transportation options to and from the airport can be found on the airport’s website.
- Passengers requiring special assistance are reminded to contact their airline at least 48 hours prior to travel and can visit www.torontopearson.com/accessibility for additional information.
- Enjoy the airport ambiance:
- Start your vacation early by shopping at the airport’s luxury brand locations, enjoying signature items sold exclusively at Pearson and unique specialty stores.
- YYZ Live has returned for the third year in a row, featuring free live music by local musicians, performed in Terminals 1 and 3 for passengers and the public.
- Dine out before take-off at one of Pearson’s delicious restaurants offering cuisine from around the world, including celebrity chefs like Susur Lee, Lynn Crawford and Massimo Capra.