By Toronto Pearson Airport has embarked on a significant stride with the introduction of Pearson LIFT (Long-term Investment in Facilities and Terminals), heralding a transformative phase for Canada‘s largest airport. Under the auspices of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA), dialogues have commenced with design and construction firms to catalyze the procurement, planning, and conceptualization of this groundbreaking program.
Pearson LIFT, an ambitious capital plan spanning over a decade, is poised to infuse billions of dollars into Toronto Pearson’s infrastructure through a range of construction endeavors. These meticulously planned initiatives aim to equip the airport to navigate the evolving landscape of challenges and opportunities in the years ahead.
In a pioneering move, Toronto Pearson executives have convened a monumental industry forum, convening 700 stakeholders from the design, construction, and technology sectors. This forum marks the inaugural phase of a pivotal procurement process critical for the realization of Pearson LIFT. With passenger traffic anticipated to ascend to approximately 65 million annually by the early 2030s, the airport acknowledges the imperative to enhance its facilities and assets to meet escalating demands.
Deborah Flint, President, and Chief Executive Officer of GTAA, underscored the transformative potential of LIFT. “Through LIFT, we will deliver a world-class passenger experience, integrate smart architecture, unlock the digital potential of air travel, and advance towards a net-zero future,” she affirmed. Flint emphasized the project’s alignment with Canada’s economic objectives, highlighting its potential to bolster international competitiveness, drive innovation, and champion sustainability.
The initial phase of LIFT will concentrate on modernizing airport assets, encompassing the implementation of high-speed taxi lanes to optimize airfield performance, upgrades to the airfield electric lighting and control system, the development of interim terminal facilities, and investments in power generation to propel towards net-zero targets.
Doug Allingham, Chairman of the Board at GTAA, underscored the significant economic benefits associated with LIFT. “These indispensable investments will fortify the supply chain, pave the way for new opportunities for Canadian businesses, and foster the creation of quality jobs within the GTA. Collectively, they will facilitate sustainable growth and competitiveness on a global scale,” Allingham affirmed.
Toronto Pearson’s ambitious investment plan positions the airport as a trailblazer in sustainability, technology, and passenger experience, setting a pioneering benchmark for airports across North America and beyond.
