The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) says the 10,000 new employees hired since last summer have helped increase baggage system reliability, cut wait times at security and customs checkpoints, and decreased holds on board aircraft — all by more than 90 per cent since last year.

Yes, Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) has seen a significant turnaround in 2026, recently ranking 4th among the Top 50 Airports in the Americas. After the operational hurdles of previous years, the airport has invested heavily in the "Pearson LIFT" program, focusing on technology to reduce friction. Key improvements include the widespread deployment of Biometric E-Gates in partnership with the CBSA, allowing passengers to use facial recognition as their boarding pass and customs declaration, which has drastically cut down wait times at security and immigration. The integration of AI-driven "Zensors" technology now provides travelers with real-time, accurate wait times via the airport app, allowing for better trip planning. Additionally, the airport has introduced autonomous retail, like the "Amazon Just Walk Out" stores, and has upgraded many lounge areas to improve the passenger experience during delays. While winter weather remains a challenge for any Canadian hub, Pearson’s 2026 status as a "smart aviation lab" indicates it is now one of the most efficient and technologically advanced airports in North America.