The ACI-NA Airport Workforce Development Accreditation is a first-of-its-kind industry program that recognizes airports and aviation organizations for their commitment to attracting, developing, and retaining talent within the aviation industry.

The accreditation framework recognizes organizations that demonstrate excellence in workforce planning, employee development, career growth opportunities, community engagement, and partnerships that help build a sustainable talent pipeline.

“This achievement reflects our continued commitment to investing in our people and fostering a culture of continuous learning,” said Kelly McDonald, Senior Director, Human Resources “By building a skilled, inclusive, and future-ready workforce, we are strengthening not only our organization, but also the broader aviation industry.”

The Toronto Port Authority continues to prioritize initiatives that support employee growth, enhance workplace engagement, and prepare its workforce to meet the evolving demands of the aviation sector.

Learn more about the ACI-NA Airport Workforce Development Accreditation at www.astrongerairportworkforce.org.

-30-

The Doors Open theme this year is “the World in a City,” in recognition of the World Cup matches coming to Toronto this summer. As Toronto prepares to welcome visitors from around the world, the event will highlight the people, places, and stories that make the city a true global mosaic. In celebration of this theme, Toronto Port Authority and its partners are thrilled to bring the global game to life and part of the visitor experience at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

“Doors Open Toronto offers a rare opportunity to invite our community behind the scenes and highlight what makes Toronto’s downtown airport truly special,” said Warren Askew, Vice President, Airport, Toronto Port Authority, owner and operator of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. “This year’s theme, The World in a City, allows us to celebrate the global connections reflected in our passengers and destinations. With interactive exhibits and close-up views of airport operations, we’re thrilled to welcome visitors for a day of discovery, excitement, and memorable experiences.”

What To Expect

• Take the underwater pedestrian tunnel, to reach the island atrium and mainland pavilion, as well as a staging area to view the airport’s runway operations and aircraft up close;
• Explore the airport’s many public art installations, including a new installation in the pedestrian tunnel that plays into the ‘The World in a City’ theme;
• Visit the airport’s fire hall and maintenance facility, which will give kids of all ages the opportunity to explore the airport’s state-of-the-art safety vehicles;
• Meet with airport partners and tenants, such as Air Canada, Porter Airlines, Nieuport Aviation, Ornge and Stolport, among others, who will host displays and showcase the full range of services that the airport provides;
• Catch a live broadcast by Indie88 with activations and giveaways; and,
• Enjoy fun-filled day of activities for the entire family.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will “open its doors” from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 23. Last entry is at 4:00 p.m. Save the date and join us!

-30-

About Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is an award-winning gateway to Canada’s largest city, offering unmatched convenience just minutes from downtown Toronto. Serving passengers since 1939, the airport provides service to more than 20 cities across Canada and the U.S., with connections to more than 100 global destinations through its airline partners, and a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Preclearance facility.

Renowned for its accessibility, stunning skyline views and 98% passenger satisfaction rating, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport supports critical regional services, including medical travel and medevac operations through Ornge. It is also a key economic driver, supporting more than 4,000 jobs (2,000 directly associated with its operations) and generating approximately $2 billion annually for the regional economy.

Committed to sustainability, the airport is a three-time recipient of the Airports Council International–North America’s Environmental Achievement Award and is certified under Level 1 Airport Carbon Accreditation.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is owned and operated by the Toronto Port Authority. Nieuport Aviation is the terminal partner and operates the airport’s complimentary shuttle service to and from downtown Toronto. Learn more at billybishopairport.com.

About Doors Open Toronto

Each May, Doors Open Toronto invites the public to explore the city’s most-loved buildings and sites, free of charge. The event provides rare access to buildings that are not usually open to the public and free access to sites that would usually charge an admission fee. Since its inception in 2000, it has attracted more than two million visits to nearly 700 unique locations and remains the largest event of its kind in Canada. Doors Open Toronto is dedicated to celebrating built heritage, architecture and design. It is produced by the City of Toronto in partnership with the broader community.

Beginning in Spring 2026, Air Canada will launch new, non-stop return service four-times-daily to New York’s LaGuardia Airport, three-times-daily to Boston Logan International Airport, twice-daily to Chicago O’Hare International Airport, and daily to Washington Dulles International Airport. The start of transborder services from Billy Bishop will follow the opening of U.S. Customs Pre-Clearance at the island airport, a convenience for customers flying to U.S. airports from Canada that allows them to clear U.S. customs before departure. In addition, beginning in January 2026, Air Canada will expand its daily services in Canada’s busiest domestic travel corridors by increasing the frequency of return flights to Montréal to nine from eight, and to six from four to Ottawa.

“This is our most significant expansion at Toronto Island since Air Canada first served the airport 35 years ago. The new transborder routes will especially benefit our loyal customers and business travellers by creating frequent and easy connections between the heart of Canada’s financial capital and the major markets of New York, Boston, Washington and Chicago. Moreover, we are increasing at the island the daily frequency of return flights from Toronto to Montréal and Ottawa, which are Canada’s most heavily travelled corridors for business traffic,” said Mark Galardo, Air Canada Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, and President, Cargo.

“These exciting new services reflect Air Canada’s commitment to further elevate the customer experience at Billy Bishop Airport. Our flights are the only ones from Toronto Island to offer travellers the productivity tool of fast, free in-flight Wi-Fi and the comforts of the Aspire Air Canada Café, a quiet space for eligible domestic customers to work or recharge prior to their flight. All customers can also enjoy complimentary premium snacks, beer and wine that we offer on board. Our expanded services at the island complement our already extensive services from Toronto Pearson where we will operate more than 600 return flights a day to 124 destinations next summer. This expansion ensures the Greater Toronto Area and beyond are highly connected for business and leisure travel, making Air Canada the preferred choice for travel to and from the GTA.”

“We are delighted to welcome Air Canada’s expanded routes at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport – a milestone that underscores our shared commitment to enhancing connectivity, convenience, and choice for travellers. This expansion of routes not only continues to strengthen Toronto as a place for business and leisure, but also reflects confidence in Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport’s role as a gateway to the future of passenger-centric urban air travel. We look forward to working with Air Canada to help shape the next chapter of growth and innovation for the airport and the city and region we proudly serve,” said RJ Steenstra, President & CEO PortsToronto, owner and operator of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

“Today’s announcement represents a new era of business and leisure travel convenience, comfort and accessibility at Billy Bishop Airport,” says Jennifer Quinn, CEO, Nieuport Aviation. “Made possible next year by our new U.S. Customs and Border Protection Preclearance facility, we will offer more destinations within reach, further strengthening our role in connecting communities and driving economic growth across Ontario and Canada.”

“This announcement is excellent news for Canadian travellers. With Air Canada’s new flights from Billy Bishop Airport to the U.S., along with increased flight frequency from Toronto to Ottawa and Montréal, we’re strengthening regional and cross-border connectivity. These additions will make travel more convenient, help connect families across distances, support business growth, and enhance service quality for Canadian travellers,” said the Honourable Steve MacKinnon, federal Minister of Transport.

“Today’s announcement is great news for travelers across the province. This expansion not only strengthens connectivity but supports economic growth, tourism and business opportunities across Canada and the United States - our closest trading partner. Toronto is a key hub for travel and this critical expansion at Billy Bishop Airport will provide more options for Ontarians and improve the customer experience,” said the Honourable Prabmeet Sarkaria, Ontario Minister of Transportation. 

"We congratulate our members, Air Canada, Nieuport Aviation and PortsToronto, on this exciting expansion. This is exactly the kind of growth-enabling infrastructure Ontario’s economy needs. By boosting connectivity, cutting travel time and opening access to key Canadian and U.S. markets, it delivers real value for businesses across the province,” said Daniel Tisch, President and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce. 

New Transborder Flights

Air Canada’s new services from Toronto Island airport to New York’s LaGuardia Airport, Boston Logan International Airport, Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport will begin in Spring 2026. With return service up to four times daily, the new routes will make it convenient to travel between the core of Canada’s financial capital and these major American markets for a quick business trip or more extended visit. All flights are operated as Air Canada Express, by Air Canada’s regional partner Jazz Aviation LP, using a 78-seat, De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft. Flights from Toronto Island (YTZ) to:

New York LaGuardia (LGA) begins March 29, 2026

Boston Logan (BOS) begins July 1, 2026

Chicago O’Hare (ORD) begins June 1, 2026

Washington Dulles (IAD) begins June 1, 2026

Increased service to Montréal, Ottawa

In January 2026, Air Canada will add new daily flights from Toronto Island in the popular and heavily travelled Eastern Triangle of Canada. This includes an additional flight to Montréal, bringing the service to nine return flights daily. Between the island and Ottawa, the carrier is adding two frequencies to bring to six the number of total daily return trips to the nation's capital from Billy Bishop.

Elevating the Billy Bishop Travel Experience

Beginning in October 2025, Air Canada was the first airline to offer fast, free Wi-Fi in-flight to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport travellers. The industry-leading service provides high-quality Internet to give customers gate-to-gate connectivity and non-stop access to productivity tools while travelling on Air Canada Express flights to and from the city airport on some of the most popular business travel routes in Canada and next year to the U.S. It is the first time Wi-Fi has been made available on a De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft type anywhere in the world. The introduction of fast, free Wi-Fi complements the other amenities Air Canada customers flying from Billy Bishop now enjoy, including frequent departures, complimentary in-flight premium snacks, beer and wine, and exclusive access for eligible domestic customers to the Aspire Air Canada Café.¹

Regional Flying Reimagined

A full cabin redesign will soon be commenced on 25 De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft operated for Air Canada Express by Jazz. The program includes:

New Seating

Twenty-five Dash 8-400 operated for Air Canada Express by Jazz will be equipped with next generation, well-padded, ergonomic reclining seats from Expliseat. The seats will feature new branding and design language expressed through the seat’s dress cover. All seats will include a seatback multi-use device holder for tablets and phones, as well as a table tray. The installation of the new seating has an expected completion date for the program in mid-2026. Each aircraft will have 78 seats, and pitch will be unchanged.

Cabin Interior Redesign

The cabins of these same 25 Dash 8-400s will be upgraded to a new standard reflective of Air Canada ’s mainline aircraft interiors. The design incorporates colours, textures and tones of those found in Canadian nature, reinforcing Air Canada’s pride in being the nation’s flag carrier.

Toronto, ON — Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, in collaboration with the City of Toronto’s StreetARToronto program, has unveiled a new, large-scale mural on the exterior of the airport’s passenger terminal. Led by terminal partner Nieuport Aviation and created by Jakarundi Graphics, the mural, titled “The Stories We Carry,” celebrates the Indigenous lands and waters surrounding the airport, exploring themes of migration and the natural ecology of Toronto’s waterfront.

The mural’s concept was informed by community feedback provided through two community workshops held earlier this year. The project is the latest step in Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport’s ongoing journey to reflect Toronto’s vibrancy and diversity while honouring the history, voices and experiences that shape us all.

Positioned prominently on the exterior of the terminal’s public side, the large-scale mural is open to the public, and visible from the waterfront and select vantage points across the city. Visitors and residents are invited to experience it in person, whether travelling through the airport or looking for a fun family activity.

The mural includes imagery of water, birds, and canoes, with symbolic references to migration, community, and the Anishinaabe's connection to the land and water. While the artwork holds deep meaning, its presence at the airport is intended to serve as a welcoming and reflective space for all who pass through.

Media Contacts 

Ryan White 
Senior Manager, Communications and Community Programs 
Nieuport Aviation 
ryan.white@nieuport.com 

Claire Pfeiffer 
Senior Manager, Communications 
PortsToronto 
cpfeiffer@portstoronto.com 
 

Public transit remains a strong preference for users

• Transit use has increased significantly; it is now nearly twice as common among arriving passengers and three times as common among those departing, compared to 2018.
• The free shuttle takes passengers to/from Union Station. Demand remains strong.
• Good weather correlates with increased transit use. Data suggest that single passengers are more likely to choose transit over hired vehicles when skies are clear.
• The data also suggest that travelers prefer auto-based transportation when control over timing is important—such as arriving for a flight—while transit is seen as more appealing for return/post-arrival trips.

Active transportation and transit take top combined spot for departing users

• More than half (55%) of users now leave the airport by transit, shuttle, walking, or cycling, based on combined seasonal averages.

Overall vehicle traffic has decreased from five years ago

• Overall vehicle traffic in the immediate area has decreased significantly compared to 2018, with lower volumes observed both during peak hours and throughout the day. Along Eireann Quay and nearby queuing areas, traffic remained manageable, with only brief periods of minor congestion.
• Airport-related traffic accounts for an estimated 20–50% of volume on major nearby routes, and just 2–5% on Lake Shore Boulevard.
• Residential impact is minimal, with only about 5% of local traffic attributed to the airport.

Operational Considerations

• Competition for curbside space has increased somewhat, with double parking observed at peak timings. Operational challenges were noted as minor during the survey period.

The Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport transportation survey is available for the years 2012, 2015, 2018, 2023, and 2024. Data sources include traffic and passenger counts, vehicle queue lengths, parking data and shuttle usage records.

The event brought together 18 teams to pull a 67,000-lb Porter Airlines aircraft across the airport tarmac – a powerful symbol of the challenging journeys faced by the patients and families Hope Air serves each year.

“Every dollar raised today helps remove the barrier of distance from medical care,” said Mark Rubinstein CEO, Hope Air. “We’re incredibly proud of the strength, spirit, and generosity shown by our teams, sponsors and volunteers.”

Haul for Hope is a national event series that’s been building momentum each year to raise money for those in need of medical assistance, meeting the growing need for Hope Air’s travel support services.

On Saturday, September 13, 2025, teams came together in the morning to enjoy a complimentary breakfast, high-energy DJ set, and team warmup before taking turns hauling the plane a combined distance of 1,350 metres, showcasing incredible spirit against the stunning backdrop of the downtown skyline and Toronto Islands.

The Brantford Bruins completed the pull in the fastest time and were also the overall Haul for Hope Champions with their combined fundraising and pull time.

QUOTES:

“Haul for Hope Toronto demonstrates the power of a community united by compassion. Every plane pulled represents the real journeys our patients take when faced with the burden of distance and cost to access medical care. Thanks to the commitment of partners like Porter, PortsToronto and Nieuport Aviation, we can meet the rising demand for our services and make sure that every Canadian, no matter where they live, has a fair chance at improved health.” - Mark Rubinstein, CEO of Hope Air

“Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is uniquely located just minutes from the world-class hospitals, research labs, and trauma centres that define healthcare in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. Its accessibility and strong connections to the regional transportation network make it an ideal gateway for patients and families travelling for care. This is also why Ornge, Ontario’s air ambulance service, has maintained a base at the airport for over 40 years. We’re proud to serve as a hub for healthcare in Ontario and to support Hope Air’s critical mission by hosting the annual Haul for Hope.” - RJ Steenstra, President and CEO, PortsToronto, owner and operator of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

“Haul for Hope is a remarkable way to showcase what can be achieved when airport partners and the broader Toronto community pull together, literally, for a vital cause. We are proud to support Hope Air’s mission and to ensure that patients travelling through YTZ have the connections they need to access life-saving care.” - Jennifer Quinn, CEO, Nieuport Aviation, terminal partner at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

While open to all young people, Girls Take Flight is focused on inspiring young women to become the next generation of pilots, engineers, mechanics and scientists, as they continue to be underrepresented in the industry.

The speaker series includes senior leaders Lesley Page (Founder, Girls Take Flight); Tim Yee Lee (Aircraft Design & Development Safety Officer and Manager, Core Airworthiness, Bombardier); Lori Duthie (Executive Director, Canadian International Air Show); Captain Claire Lemiski (Assistant Chief Pilot, Porter Airlines); Lola Reid Allin (Author and Pilot) and Major Marlene Shillingford (MMM., C.D., Air Reserve Flight Commander, 1 Wing Headquarters, Kingston Canadian Armed Forces), plus an inspiring panel featuring RCAF Foundation Scholarship students sharing their journeys.

The event program also includes a limited number of exploration flights, giving young women ages 8 to 17 to experience what it’s like to operate a small aircraft and ride alongside a pilot on a real flight. Exploration flights are run by event partner Stolport, a fixed-base operator at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, and advance registration is required.

Except for the exploration flights, activities are drop-in and open to all young people. Girls Take Flight at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is produced in partnership by PortsToronto, Nieuport Aviation, Stolport, Porter Airlines and Ornge, with participation by NAV Canada and support from Indie88.

For more information, visit toronto.girlstakeflight.ca.

Selected from TIFF’s exclusive photography archive, the gallery showcases 20 iconic moments from the festival’s remarkable 50-year history. Actors, producers, and directors are all represented in a larger-than-life format along the pedestrian tunnel that connects the airport to the mainland. Passengers, visitors and Torontonians alike are encouraged to visit the downtown airport, stroll the gallery and share in the excitement of this legendary Toronto cultural event that started as the “Festival of Festivals” half a century ago.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will also feature creative on digital out-of-home screens throughout the airport and host a welcome booth in the atrium to greet those flying in for the festival. Billy Bishop Airport’s Music on the Fly series, presented in cooperation with the City of Toronto and Arthaus, will further enhance the welcome experience in the passenger terminal by featuring local Toronto musicians performing film scores on September 4.

From runway to red carpet, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has long supported TIFF and its impact on Toronto and region. Traditionally many flying in for the festival from the north-eastern regions of North America choose Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport as their preferred access point into and out of Toronto. With flights to more than 20 destinations, and an additional 80 locations through airlines partnership agreements, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is the ideal choice for festivalgoers and industry alike given the convenience and proximity to TIFF theatres, venues, hotels, and restaurants.

The gallery will run from August 27 to September 14 and is free and open to all. No boarding pass required.

Today’s flight of the electric ALIA aircraft signified Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport’s readiness to invest in the foundations and technology required for electric aircraft, as aligned with a modernized governance agreement.

In addition, Stolport announced the purchase of a BETA Minicube charger for use in their operations at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. The mobile unit is multimodal and interoperable, meaning it can power electric aircraft and ground vehicles alike. This represents BETA’s first charger sale in Canada.

One of the aerospace capitals of the world, Canada is a hub for exceptional engineering talent and major aerospace companies. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport serves as an important hub for mobility within Ontario, providing more than two million passengers a year with safe transport to more than 20 cities in Canada and the U.S. and connections to more than 100 international destinations. 

BETA’s structures engineering division is based out of Montreal. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has joined BETA’s growing network of infrastructure. The company has brought 52 chargers online at site locations across the U.S. for public and private use by commercial, military, and medical entities. These sites, which have been installed in partnership with airports, FBOs, government agencies, and OEMs, set the foundation to bring electric aviation to both metropolitan areas as well as rural and hard-to-reach communities with limited access to air transportation. 

In addition to its ALIA CTOL aircraft, BETA is building the ALIA VTOL — a vertical takeoff and landing aircraft — at its 188,000 sq ft production facility in Vermont, U.S. The company is ramping production, certification, and delivery efforts across aircraft and ground support equipment, preparing for delivery and operations across its diverse roster of customers. This group includes UPS, Air New Zealand, Republic Airways, United Therapeutics, Bristow, Helijet, Metro Aviation, and the U.S. Department of Defense, among others.

Oscar Sort enhances the travel experience by making waste sorting quick, clear, and effortless. Using AI-powered recognition and a real-time digital display, it instantly guides guests to correctly dispose of their items—eliminating confusion at the bin while boosting recycling rates and reducing landfill.

Even when not in use, Oscar continues to engage passers-by. Its screen cycles through climate-focused messaging that reinforces the airport’s sustainability mission and keeps environmental stewardship visible throughout the terminal.

Behind the scenes, Oscar contributes to operational efficiency by reducing waste stream contamination and lowering waste management costs. Its built-in media platform also generates revenue—offsetting the cost of deployment and making Oscar a self-sustaining part of the airport’s environmental strategy.

With this launch, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport enhances its ESG measures, which have received wide recognition for leadership in the sector, and demonstrates that investing in intelligent, climate-conscious technologies supports both service and sustainability—proving that environmental impact and convenience can go hand in hand.

-30-

A new report is available on the environment, social and governance (ESG) performance of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport in 2024, published by PortsToronto with the organization’s terminal partner Nieuport Aviation and contributions from Porter Airlines, Stolport FBO, Ornge, Air Canada, Hudson, Pomerleau and Scott Associates Architects. This report provides a full and transparent account of measures undertaken at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport to support commitments to social equity, good governance and environmental sustainability, as well as our vision of a greener, cleaner, quieter airport for all.

ESG updates on Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport in 2024 include:

• Achieving Airport Carbon Accreditation Level 1, recognizing GHG measurement and reporting efforts
• Generating $2.1 billion in annual economic output, and serving over 2 million passengers
• Being named Canada’s Best Airport by the AirHelp Score Report
• An increase in transit usage to and from the airport, with a majority (55%) of passengers choosing transit, shuttle, walking or cycling as their preferred transportation away from the airport
• Support for organizations and initiatives, making a measurable difference in the lives of Canadians, such as Hope Air, Daily Bread Food Bank, the Black Aviation Professionals Network, The Bentway, the Anishnawbe Health Foundation and Swim Drink Fish, among many others
• Offsetting 2,908 tCO₂e GHG emissions by converting airport waste to energy
• Achieving 100% waste diversion rate in the airport terminal, administrative offices, fire hall and Porter Airlines’ facilities
• Presenting Girls Take Flight, an innovative and inspirational event to inspire young women, girls and underrepresented groups to explore rewarding careers in aviation and aerospace (which was named “Best of the Best” in the Special and Experiential Events category by the International Association of Business Communicators)
• Hosting 12,000 visitors at Doors Open, a free community event led by the City of Toronto
• Joining the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program to assist travellers with accessibility needs

The report contains detailed information on the ESG topics deemed material by Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport’s key stakeholders. PortsToronto’s ESG strategy reflects a deep responsibility to the people and places it serves, backed by a shared commitment to building a more sustainable future.

Find the report under Reports and Publications.

-30-

We are pleased to unveil the second iteration of our new Perspectives public art program in the pedestrian tunnel today. From now until December 2025, visitors to the airport will be able to enjoy works by Toronto-based visual artists Melanie Gordon, Pam Lostracco, Jason Lujan, Tessa Shank and Sara Shields.

With two editions per year, this program brings together local artists to offer visitors a fresh take on Toronto life, culture and environment, told via their unique perspectives and artistic practices. This latest slate of works, selected by a jury, considers diverse themes, including our relationship to nature, the possibilities within new social connections, our built and lived environments in the city, as well as traditional and contemporary Indigenous culture.

Visit our Perspectives page to learn more about each artist and our past exhibitions.

We were also proud to present the Canadian Airports Council’s National Airport Workers Day Award for “Airport Innovator” to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport’s Zaina Alhillou (pictured). Throughout her six years working at the airport with terminal partner Nieuport Aviation, Zaina has consistently delivered large-scale projects with exceptional precision and efficiency. From leading the $50-million terminal upgrade completed in 2018 to being Nieuport’s lead on the forthcoming US CBP preclearance facility, her contributions have already left a lasting and meaningful impact on the airport and the passenger experience. 

In a country as vast as Canada, air transportation connects people across the country to the communities, goods and services they need to thrive. The Canadian Airport Council estimates that more than 150 million passengers will travel through Canada’s airports in 2025, creating 200,000 direct airport jobs. Airport workers are the backbone of this sector, and ensure the safety and security of passengers, cargo, and aircraft across thousands of operational touchpoints every day. National Airport Workers Day is a chance to applaud these efforts and showcase the many careers that propel the industry.

– 30 –

The Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport ESG report, written, designed and published by PortsToronto in collaboration with Nieuport Aviation, details the commitment of the airport and its partners in operating a cleaner, greener and quieter airport, and advancements made in enhancing efficiency, minimizing its environmental impacts and adopting sustainable technologies under a net-zero roadmap.

The ESG report was recognized for its comprehensive content coupled with innovative delivery. Offering a complete overview of operations and sustainability measures at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, the report includes extensive technical reporting, prefaced by an introduction featuring engaging interactive graphic and video elements that illustrate the highlights of the report. The Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport 2023 ESG Report is available on its website in English and French.

Girls Take Flight is an event designed to inspire underrepresented groups in aviation, enhance accessibility and community engagement, and create an inclusive environment for exploration and mentorship. The project was led by PortsToronto and steered by a collaborative planning committee with representation from key partners across the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport campus – including Nieuport Aviation, Stolport, and Porter Airlines.

Recognized for its strong exhibitor participation, effective community engagement and high attendee satisfaction, the inaugural Girls Take Flight event exceeded expectations, featuring 32 organizations in its exhibit hall, 12 inspiring speakers, 14 aircraft on display and 100 free exploration flights – bringing flight to life in a big way for more than 3,700 participants. Learn more about Girls Take Flight and the 2025 event on the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport website.

[1] Recommended by Blue Ribbon Panel evaluators and reviewed by the Gold Quill Awards Committee, the Best of the Best winners represent the very best entries seen across the globe.

The Canadian Public Relations Society has named the ESG report on operations at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport in 2023 “best publication” in its annual Achieving Communications Excellence (ACE) Awards. The report, written, designed and published by PortsToronto in collaboration with Nieuport Aviation, details the commitment of the airport and its partners in operating a cleaner, greener and quieter airport, and advancements made in enhancing efficiency, minimizing its environmental impacts and adopting sustainable technologies under a net-zero roadmap.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is an essential transportation gateway and welcomes millions of travellers each year. Recognizing the airport’s importance to Ontarians and visitors alike, this new, expanded ESG report provides enhanced data and disclosures measuring environmental, sustainability and governance practices at the airport, particularly those that stakeholders consider to be most significant, such as safety and security, occupational health and safety and waste management.

The ESG report was recognized for its comprehensive content coupled with innovative delivery. Offering a complete overview of operations and sustainability measures at Billy Bishop Airport, the report includes extensive technical reporting, prefaced by an introduction featuring engaging interactive graphic and video elements that illustrate the highlights of the report.

The Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport 2023 ESG Report is available on the PortsToronto website in English and French.

-30-

The program builds upon the efforts of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport’s ongoing commitment to reflecting Toronto and all that the city has to offer through its public arts programming and the retail options for travellers in the lounges. Strategically positioned in the artium of the terminal, as visitors make their way toward the pedestrian tunnel or ferry access, these pop-ups will generate excitement about Toronto’s world-class tourist offering and act as an informative jumping-off point for adventures in the city.

Local businesses are being invited to express their interest by submitting a short form at https://www.toronto-bia.com/activating-billy-bishop/.

This year, get ready to play. The 2025 Doors Open Toronto theme is “Play”. With different sports, music and theatre venues to discover, the city becomes your playground during this annual event. As part of this exciting theme, PortsToronto and its partners are thrilled to incorporate playful elements into the visitor experience at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

What To Expect

• Take the underwater pedestrian tunnel, which celebrates its 10^th anniversary in 2025, to reach the island atrium and mainland pavilion, as well as a staging area to view the airport’s runway operations and aircraft up close;
• Explore the airport’s many public art installations, including the new Perspectives Public Art program;
• Visit the airport’s fire hall and maintenance facility, which will give kids of all ages the opportunity to explore the airport’s state-of-the-art safety vehicles;
• Take the scenic route aboard the cleaner, greener and quieter Marilyn Bell ferry, the first 100% electric ferry in Canada;
• Meet with airport partners and tenants, such as Air Canada, Porter Airlines, Nieuport Aviation, Ornge, Stolport and Heli Tours, among others, who will host displays and showcase the full range of services that the airport provides;
• Catch a live broadcast by Indie88 with activations and giveaways; and,
• Enjoy fun-filled day of activities for the entire family.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will “open its doors” from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 24. Save the date and join us!

Take a peek at the 2024 event here, and learn more about what is planned for 2025 on our website.

– 30 –

The 2025 Skytrax Awards are based on millions of airport survey questionnaires completed by more than 100 different nationalities of air travellers, covering 550 airports worldwide. In the independent survey, passengers continued to rank Billy Bishop Airport highly across 39 key performance indicators, including fast check-in times, ease of access to the terminal, and the courtesy and efficiency of airport staff.

-30-

As part of the initiative, the Waterfront Neighbourhood Centre is hosting a stencil-making workshop, facilitated by Jakarundi Graphics and open to the general public, on February 23, which will serve as inspiration for the finished mural. For Jakarundi Graphics skill-sharing and collaboration are central to their work. They value, as we do, community partnerships as a way of bringing art into everyday life. The workshop will explore imagery from nature and the geography of the Great Lakes, while reminding all that Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport sits on Indigenous lands and waters.

The mural is expected to be completed by Jakarundi Graphics by summer 2025. For more information on the Waterfront Neighbourhood Centre’s upcoming workshop, and to register, please visit this website.

– 30 –

Perspectives has been designed to be ever evolving, providing a platform for local artists to explore and express their personal connections to the city, from its landmarks and neighbourhoods to its people and culture. Featuring a diverse range of works, Perspectives provides a dynamic, visually engaging experience for travellers, allowing them to connect with the city on a deeper level as they pass through one of its busiest transport hubs. The art will be regularly refreshed and changed to ensure a diversity of perspectives, and future iterations of the program have the potential of expanding to other areas of the airport, including the passenger terminal.

Part of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport’s broader commitment to supporting local artists, fostering cultural expression in the public sphere and offering both locals and visitors a meaningful glimpse into Toronto’s artistic community, Perspectives aims to create a lasing impact by highlighting the diversity of Toronto’s artistic voices.

Call for Submissions

Local artists interested in participating in the Perspectives program are encouraged to submit their work on our website. Selected pieces will be showcased in the airport’s pedestrian tunnel for a duration of six months, and on its website. For more information about Perspectives, or to submit your work, please visit billybishopairport.com.

– 30 –

Without a visual cue, it can be difficult for others to identify, acknowledge or understand the daily barriers faced by people living with a non-visible disability. For those living with such disabilities, the sunflower lanyard or sticker enables them to navigate their environments confidently, choosing what they share or don’t share about their non-visible disabilities, conditions, or chronic illnesses. For those who work at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, the program and associated training equips them with the knowledge and confidence to talk about disabilities, and respectfully and non-intrusively support colleagues and customers with non-visible disabilities.

Travellers planning to pass through Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport who have a hidden disability and would like to receive a Sunflower lanyard can email info@nieuport.com at least 24 hours ahead of their arrival at the airport to organize pickup on the day of travel. Alternatively, travellers may pick up a Sunflower sticker anytime on the departures level of our passenger terminal as a means of signalling to airport staff that they have a hidden disability. All Sunflower products will be available free of charge.

– 30 –

The funds will be used to support vital food programs across the city through Daily Bread’s member network.

Through this partnership, PortsToronto will tap into Plug and Play’s resources to power its digital transformation, connect with global tech leaders, and exchange innovative best practices with other organizations to deliver bold solutions for connectivity, convenience and economic opportunity.

To learn more about Plug and Play Travel & Hospitality, visit https://www.plugandplaytechcenter.com/industries/travel-and-hospitality.

On September 8, 1939, a charter flight carrying band leader and famed trombone player Tommy Dorsey landed at Toronto’s downtown, island airport – setting the stage for its success and transformation over the decades. From these beginnings in 1939, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has served as an important commercial aviation centre connecting Toronto to the world; as a training ground for both the Royal Canadian and Royal Norwegian Air Forces during World War II; as a hub for General Aviation and life-saving emergency Medevac services; and as a key driver of Toronto’s economy. Learn more about the airport’s rich history here.

– 30 –

A staggering 31% of adults report missing a whole day of meals because they did not have enough money for food, and last year, there were 2.53 million food bank visits in Toronto, underscoring the vital need to address food insecurity across Canada’s largest city. Food bank usage in Toronto increased by 51% last year compared to 2023, and 1 in 10 people in the city relied on food banks last year, up from 1 in 20 the previous year.

Passengers, employers from across the airport ecosystem, workers and anyone else passionate about ensuring no one in Toronto goes hungry are encouraged to donate by visiting the drive’s webpage. To make donating as easy as possible, anyone passing through the airport can simply tap their debit or credit card at locations throughout the passenger terminal.

The total amount raised to help those accessing Daily Bread Food Bank’s services will be announced later this month.

– 30 –

This second annual Haul for Hope event received immediate commitment from the 11 teams that pulled in the inaugural event last year plus an additional 6 new teams, expanding the event to 17 teams that demonstrate strong support for Hope Air’s mission to help Canadian patients in need access vital medical care far from home.

Among the new entrants is a participant well familiar with feats of strength, who pulled a plane for the first time and involved his colleagues as a team-building exercise. David Steele, a strongman competitor from the UK, regularly travels to Toronto for business and is an advocate for Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport given its location in the heart of Toronto. Understanding how this convenience also benefits Hope Air patients, Steele was eager to lend his strength and leadership to the event and viewed Haul for Hope as the perfect team-building challenge while supporting a cause he deeply values.

The Haul for Hope plane pull is a unique event in which teams of up to 10 people come together to pull a 67,000 lb Porter Airlines aircraft for 100 meters. This symbolic challenge reflects the journey that Hope Air patients face as they overcome geographical barriers to access essential medical care. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of community support in bridging the gap between home and hospital.

Porter has been a committed partner for over a decade, providing free travel vouchers for Hope Air patients travelling through Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, a critical travel connection for thousands of families, individuals and children who must travel to Toronto for specialized medical care. For patients living in communities such as Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins, and Thunder Bay, Ontario, among others, it allows them to travel conveniently and safely to reach Toronto hospitals.

This year’s Haul for Hope was an impactful day filled with team spirit, camaraderie, and purpose. Hope Air is facing unprecedented demand for its services, having already set a record for travel supports provided in just seven months of 2024. This event is critical to raising the necessary funds and awareness to ensure that Canadians living in rural and remote areas continue to have access to the medical care they need.

Background

Haul for Hope is a fundraising event in support of Hope Air, Canada’s only national charity providing free travel support through flights, accommodations, meals, and ground transportation for Canadians in financial need who must access medical care far from home. Since its inception in 1986, Hope Air has provided more than 200,000 travel arrangements for patients, regardless of age or medical need.

Patient Impact Statistics

• Without Hope Air, 87% of patients felt they had no other travel options.
• 48% would have to travel 9-13+ hours each way for care.
• 65% would have gone into debt to manage travel costs, and 25% would have to borrow money.

The charity is pursuing new avenues for fundraising in response to an overwhelming increase in demand. After fulfilling 24,998 travel arrangements in 2023, a 144% increase over 2022 and record for the charity, Hope Air is on track to provide more than 40,000 travel supports in 2024.

– 30 –

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is the 5th-busiest Canadian airport serving the United States, and the planned expansion of Preclearance to the airport will enhance passenger convenience by allowing U.S.-bound travellers to clear U.S. Customs, Immigration, and Agriculture inspection before takeoff. Travelers then bypass CBP inspections upon U.S. arrival and proceed directly to their connecting flight or destination.

In addition to the significant enhancements to passenger experience, Preclearance will open up more routes to the United States from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, potentially growing the airport’s annual economic contribution to $5.3 billion, boosting employment on both sides of the border, and strengthening bilateral trade and tourism between the United States and Canada. Preclearance also allows for a shared approach to security. The process allows both countries to manage the border in a way that addresses shared security concerns, including managing threats early.

For the past year, DHS and CBP, in coordination with Transport Canada and Public Safety Canada, have been monitoring plans for the preparation of future Preclearance facilities at Billy Bishop Airport. DHS feels confident in the steps being taken and is now incorporating Billy Bishop in staffing and resource allocation planning and decisions.  While the start of operations must depend on the completion of each project milestone, progress is moving in the right direction.

Fast Facts – Preclearance at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

• The introduction of Preclearance at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport could grow the airport’s annual economic contribution from $2.1 billion to $5.3 billion.
• As a result of increased aviation activity, Preclearance could result in $215 million in total annual tax revenue, up from $150 million, based primarily on direct on-site activities.
• Preclearance at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport could boost on-site jobs to 3,680, up from 2,080.
• By allowing U.S.-bound travellers to clear U.S. Customs, Immigration, and Agriculture inspection before takeoff, Preclearance will enhance passenger convenience.
• Preclearance will result in increased choice for passengers by opening up to ten more U.S. destinations from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.
• Preclearance at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport was made possible in part by an investment of $30 million in capital funding on the part of Canada’s Federal Government.
   

– 30 –

Fast Facts

• Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is powered by clean, renewable electricity through Bullfrog Power.
• Since 2010, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has avoided 20,231 tonnes of CO₂.
• That’s equivalent to:
  • 4,500+ cars taken off the road for one year.
  • 9,825 hectares of forests grown for a year.
  • 766,000+ light bulbs switched to LEDs.
• Introduction of Canada’s first, all-electric ferry to service the island-based airport.
• Forthcoming electric shuttle buses to reduce CO₂ emissions associated with current diesel-powered buses.

To learn more about Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport’s efforts to operate cleaner, greener and quieter, please click here to read our 2023 Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport ESG report.

Airport Carbon Accreditation is the only institutionally endorsed, global carbon management certification program for airports. Program administrators independently assess and recognize the efforts of airports to manage and reduce their carbon emissions through seven levels of certification. Level 1 requires the accredited airport to determine emissions sources within the operational boundary of the airport, calculate the annual carbon emissions, and compile a carbon footprint report.

Fast Facts

• Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is powered by clean, renewable electricity through Bullfrog Power.
• Since 2010, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has avoided 20,231 tonnes of CO₂.
  That’s equivalent to:
• 4,500+ cars taken off the road for one year.
• 9,825 hectares of forests grown for a year.
• 766,000+ light bulbs switched to LEDs.
• Introduction of Canada’s first, all-electric ferry to service the island-based airport.
• Forthcoming electric shuttle buses to reduce CO₂ emissions associated with current diesel-powered buses.

To learn more about Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport’s efforts to operate cleaner, greener and quieter, please click here to read our 2023 Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport ESG report.

-30-

Girls Take Flight aims to break down barriers and encourage girls and underrepresented groups to pursue their dreams in the dynamic and rewarding fields of aviation and aerospace. Through hands-on activities, interactive exhibits and inspiring talks from industry professionals, participants will gain valuable insights and motivation to consider these rewarding careers.

In partnership with PortsToronto, Porter Airlines, Nieuport Aviation and Stolport, Girls Take Flight at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will offers visitors the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of aviation and aerospace.

What to Expect

• Close-Up Aircraft Views: Get an exclusive, up-close look at various aircraft and learn about their functionality and design. Stolport, Porter Airlines and Ornge hangars will be open and accessible to the public during this event.
• Inspiring Speakers: Hear from female pilots, engineers and mechanics (among others) about their journeys and achievements. See a full list of speakers here.
• Career Guidance: Learn about educational pathways and career opportunities in aviation and aerospace.
• Interactive Exhibits: Engage in flight simulations, aircraft engineering challenges and more. See a full list of exhibitors here.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry professionals and like-minded peers.
• Exploration Flights: Volunteer pilots connecting participants with the joy of flying. A limited number of exploration flights will be available to young women and girls ages 8 to 17. FAQ and registration here.

Who Should Attend

• Anyone interested in aviation, aerospace, science, technology engineering and math (STEM).
• Educators and parents looking to support and guide girls toward these careers.
• Industry professionals who want to mentor and inspire the next generation.
• College and university representatives seeking to promote their aviation and aerospace programs.
• Anyone passionate about promoting diversity and representation in these fields.

Join us at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport on September 21 for a day of discovery, learning and inspiration. Learn more about our exhibitors and view a map of the event on our website.

-30-

This seventh annual report reflects improved data collection and disclosures, and details performance on topics that our key stakeholders have deemed to be most important to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. It features a full-length technical report and interactive cover report with video elements and highlights.

Environmental Stewardship

• Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is powered by clean, renewable electricity through Bullfrog Power.
• Since 2010, PortsToronto has avoided 20,231 tonnes of CO₂.
• That’s equivalent to:
• 4,500+ cars taken off the road for one year.
• 9,825 hectares of forests grown for a year.
• 766,000+ light bulbs switched to LEDs.
• 505 tonnes of CO₂ emissions offset by converting the waste generated at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport to energy.
• First airport in North America to transition to PFAS-free foam in firefighting operations.
• Forthcoming electric shuttle buses to reduce CO2 emissions associated with current diesel-powered buses.

Social Responsibility

• Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport invested more than $360,000 in our communities in 2023, and has contributed $23 million in community investment and environmental initiatives since 2009.
• Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport generates over $2.1 billion in total annual economic output and supports 4,450 jobs.
• 2,674 medevac flights operated in 2023 from the Ornge Air Ambulance base at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport in 2023.
• 18% decrease in overall noise complaints in 2023, despite increase in commercial activity over 2022.

Excellence

• Awarded an Airports Going Green Awards Honourable Mention in recognition of project to electrify access to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport – including Canada’s first zero-emission ferry and forthcoming electric shuttle buses.
• 85% of Torontonians agree that Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport plays a central role in business, health care and job creation for the city.
• Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport named one of the world’s best airports by Skytrax World Airport Awards 2023.

To read the 2023 Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport ESG report, click here.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport generates $2.1 billion in annual economic output, is the ninth-busiest airport in Canada, the fifth-busiest Canada-US air crossing, offers 20 direct flights and more than 100 connections, and is supported by an overwhelming majority of Torontonians by virtue of the quick, convenient connectivity it provides.

To read the open letter, signed by the below leaders, visit itsmyairport.ca.

AirHelp surveyed passengers between May 1, 2023, to April 30, 2024 about their most recently used airports, tracking on-time performance, customer feedback and the quality of food and shopping options at 239 airports globally.

With the tagline It’s My Airport, the campaign depicts actual passengers and employees recounting their travel experiences and providing the reasons why they choose to fly to/from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport or work at the airport. Participants were not paid and were not scripted.

Themes emerging from candid interviews with the passengers and staff included the airport’s proximity to downtown, the ability to walk or bike to the airport, friendly customer service, the airport’s sustainability practices, economic impact, community investment, career opportunities and how the airport provides a vital link to northern and remote communities providing emergency resources and support.

An earlier version of the campaign launched in the fall of 2023, and it was recognized with a Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) Toronto Achieving Communications Excellence (ACE) Award for Marketing Communications Campaign of the Year. The campaign creative included a QR code for people to connect and submit their own stories about why they choose Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. It was these submissions that formed the basis of the current campaign.

The campaign will run for 7 weeks, with a provision to extend on certain platforms, and includes social media, print, out-of-home (OOH), and online. The digital OOH screens in the airport will also be incorporated.

See more of the campaign, or submit your own It’s My Airport story here.

Beyond increased efficiency and choice for US-bound passengers, US CBP Preclearance drives visitor spend through increased tourism and business activities, boosts employment, and strengthens ties between the United States and Canada. Below are supplementary quotations from stakeholders across Toronto and beyond that highlight the transformative impact that Preclearance will have on the city and the region.

Supplementary quotations:

- 30 - 

The research study projects  future benefits resulting from next year’s introduction of Preclearance at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, and in line with the airport’s existing managed growth strategy:

• A net impact of $5.3 billion in annual GDP (up from $4.8 billion in earlier research)
• $215 million in total annual tax revenue, based primarily on direct on-site activities (up from $150 million)
• 3,680 on-site jobs (up from 3,350)

York Aviation also projects increased choice for passengers in the form of more than 10 new routes to the US, with this growth in connectivity resulting in approximately 32,000 jobs supported across the wider economy. To view the original study, click  here.

Quotes

Methodology

The research has used well established and accepted methodologies to examine the economic impact of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. The approach considers a wide range of effects, from its role in job creation on-site at the airport, through to its function as a catalyst for trade and investment through enabling business travel.  In developing the methodology, York Aviation worked with Professor Fred Lazar, Associate Professor of Economics, Schulich School of Business, at York University, as a peer reviewer.

- 30 -