Toronto and Montreal are entering another major summer travel period with airport infrastructure projects changing how visitors arrive, depart and connect with the two Canadian tourism hubs. Toronto Pearson is advancing a multi-billion-dollar transformation, while Montreal has added a new commercial airport terminal and continues work on a direct rail connection to Montreal-Trudeau.
For travellers, the changes are not limited to what happens inside an airport. Terminal capacity, baggage systems, security processing, road access and public transport connections are all being upgraded as passenger demand continues to grow.
Toronto Pearson Begins a Multi-Billion-Dollar Transformation
Toronto Pearson International Airport has launched Pearson LIFT, a long-term infrastructure programme covering airfield, baggage and terminal improvements. The first major phase includes a $3 billion investment in airside and baggage systems, with work designed to support additional passenger capacity and improve aircraft and baggage movements.
The programme includes upgrades across approximately 30 kilometres of baggage infrastructure, new baggage carousels in Terminal 1, additional sensors and cameras, new aircraft stands and a high-speed taxiway. The airport is also expanding its airfield infrastructure to support up to 28,000 additional passengers per day.
Toronto Pearson Adds Terminal Improvements
A further $1.5 billion Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 Revitalization Programme has been awarded for design and construction. Planned improvements include expanded terminal areas, modernised check-in facilities, improved baggage processing, advanced security screening, additional charging stations and refreshed lounges.
The airport expects passenger demand to reach 65 million annually by the early 2030s, compared with approximately 47.3 million today. A future Gateway programme is planned to add net new terminal space capable of accommodating another 15 million passengers annually.
For visitors heading into Toronto, Pearson remains the city’s primary international gateway. The airport’s upgrades are therefore relevant to travellers arriving for city breaks, business trips, cultural tourism and major events.
Toronto’s Summer Travel Demand Brings Extra Passenger Activity
Toronto Pearson prepared for a particularly busy summer in 2026, with the airport expecting up to 17 million arriving and departing passengers between the beginning of June and Labour Day weekend in September. Peak days were projected to reach 185,000 passengers across more than 1,000 flights.
The airport also prepared for visitors attending FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in Toronto, with direct flights to 15 of the 16 tournament host cities.
Montreal Adds a New Airport Option
Montreal’s aviation network has also expanded. MET – Montréal Metropolitan Airport opened its new commercial terminal on 15 June 2026 at the former Saint-Hubert airport in Longueuil.
The airport is located about 15 kilometres from downtown Montreal and provides a new regional and national gateway. Its scheduled services connect travellers with destinations across Canada, including Quebec, the Maritime provinces and Western Canada.
Porter Airlines launched commercial operations from MET with its inaugural flight to Vancouver, while Pascan Aviation is also part of the airport’s current carrier network.
For tourists, the new terminal creates another option when planning domestic travel around Quebec and other Canadian destinations.
Montreal-Trudeau Builds Toward Direct Rail Access
Montreal-Trudeau International Airport is continuing its own infrastructure programme as passenger numbers increase. Aéroports de Montréal’s Flight Plan 2028–2035 represents a $10 billion, 10-year modernisation programme, with passenger volumes expected to reach 25 million by 2028 and between 30 million and 35 million by 2035.
One of the most significant transport developments is the planned REM station at Montreal-Trudeau. The station is expected to become operational in 2027 and will connect the airport with Montreal’s metropolitan rail network.
The airport is also planning additional parking, new drop-off facilities and a satellite boarding jetty with additional gates as part of its phased development through 2028.
What Travellers Need to Know
Visitors flying through Montreal-Trudeau during construction are advised to allow additional time and arrive three hours before international, domestic and US-bound flights. The airport is encouraging passengers to consider public transport, taxis, rideshare services and the 747 bus, which operates around the clock.
Travellers using Toronto Pearson should likewise check their terminal and airport transport arrangements before departure, particularly during periods of heavy summer traffic and ongoing construction.
Key Stats
- Toronto Pearson initial infrastructure investment: $3 billion
- Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 and 3 programme: $1.5 billion
- Pearson projected annual capacity: 65 million passengers
- Pearson current annual passengers: about 47.3 million
- Toronto Pearson summer 2026 traffic forecast: up to 17 million passengers
- MET terminal opening: 15 June 2026
- MET distance from downtown Montreal: about 15 km
- Montreal-Trudeau infrastructure programme: $10 billion
- Montreal-Trudeau REM station target: 2027
Conclusion
Toronto and Montreal are reshaping their airport networks as Canada’s summer travel market expands. Pearson is adding capacity through major airfield, baggage and terminal investments, while Montreal is introducing MET as a second commercial airport and preparing rail access to Montreal-Trudeau. For tourists, the changes mean more airport capacity, additional domestic flight options and new ways to connect with Toronto and Montreal as gateways to wider Canadian journeys.
