Toronto Pearson is ready for winter

Ever wonder what happens when it snows at Toronto Pearson? The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) has an industry leading de-icing and snow removal plan that kicks into gear when the inevitable winter weather arrives. Around-the-clock snow clearing services involve six runway and taxiway teams, two apron crews, 89 pieces of snow clearance, 13 snow melters, 30 vehicles and 183 people. Just like a ballet, these teams rehearse so that we can continue to clear runways within 15 minutes and deliver on a well-coordinated plan.

Following the operational disruption that occurred in January 2014 due to unusual winter weather, the GTAA conducted a review of how Toronto Pearson functions during irregular operations and what happened during that weather event specifically. In April, the January 2014 Operations Disruption: Review and Recommendations report was released, explaining the 12 Recommendations to improve Toronto Pearson’s operations and customer service.
 
Thanks to the collaboration and support from our airport partners – air carriers, NAV Canada, CBSA, service providers, and more – and the hard work of Toronto Pearson employees, the GTAA is pleased to announce that the implementation of the 12 Recommendations is now materially complete. See the full news release here.
 
Operational highlights include improvements to aircraft traffic management programs that provide a better balance between airport capacity and demand during irregular operations.

Customer service highlights include a new free mobile app, improvements to the TorontoPearson.com website to provide travel and operational alerts and enhancements to our Wi-Fi and cellular coverage throughout the terminal buildings. We have implemented a new distribution procedure to provide essential items such as water and diapers to passengers. And we’ve worked with retail operators to ensure concessions stay open.