Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) was the busiest airport in Canada in 2025, with more than 65,000 scheduled flights and over 10 million seats on its ten most popular routes. The most frequently flown destination from Toronto was Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL), followed by Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport (YOW), according to a report released on Apr. 2.
This prominence underscores Toronto’s role as a key aviation hub for both domestic and international travel. With Air Canada as the leading carrier on every top route from YYZ, the airport serves as a central point for travelers across Canada and beyond.
In addition to strong domestic traffic, international routes have expanded recently. Royal Air Maroc added service to Pearson in 2025, while Etihad introduced Airbus A380 flights to Abu Dhabi, making YYZ responsible for about 60% of Canada’s air travel capacity bound for the United Arab Emirates. Deborah Flint, President and CEO of Toronto Pearson, said in September 2025: “We are thrilled for Air Canada to further grow its network at Toronto Pearson, which strengthens Canada’s connection to economies throughout the world. As Air Canada’s launch partner for the 787-10 – a next generation aircraft – this reflects our role in the market and the importance of our plans to build the airport of the future through Pearson LIFT, our infrastructure program. Through LIFT we will elevate the passenger experience, strengthen global connectivity and local economic expansion; all made possible with our airline partners.”
The airport supports approximately 50,000 jobs locally and contributes around $42 billion—or about 6.3%—to Ontario’s gross domestic product through its operations and cargo activities. The Airports Council International World Committee named it ‘Best Airport with over 40 Million Passengers in North America’ after its performance in 2023.
Looking ahead, YYZ projects up to 65 million travelers by mid-2030s under its Pearson LIFT infrastructure program—a partnership involving Kenaidan Contracting, Alberici Constructors, Amico Major Project, and Obayashi Canada—which will expand terminals and improve amenities across facilities.
Mark Galardo of Air Canada commented: “Air Canada continues to reinforce its significant network at Toronto Pearson and our bold, global growth trajectory will further cement its position as a leading international hub on the continent.”
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