Celebrating Toronto’s identity, Perspectives provides an opportunity for artists to represent what makes the city special to them, from its landmarks and neighbourhoods to its people and culture.

TORONTO, Jan. 28, 2025 /CNW/ – Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is proud to debut Perspectives, a public art program that showcases local talent and expresses unique visions of Toronto. The new program invites local artists to share their personal interpretations of the city, offering a platform for diverse perspectives that reflect the vibrancy, diversity and spirit of Toronto. The launch of the program will feature 20 works of art displayed in the airport’s pedestrian tunnel, creating an immersive experience for passengers, employees and community members that travel through the tunnel.

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.

“Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is honoured to have served the City of Toronto for over 85 years. Throughout this time, it has grown alongside the city, providing vital services, fostering community, and offering convenient access and connectivity to the people and experiences that make Toronto such a unique and vibrant destination,” said RJ Steenstra, President and CEO, PortsToronto. “Beyond our commitment to enriching the city’s cultural landscape through public art installations, Perspectives is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the 10^th anniversary of the pedestrian tunnel. The art will be regularly refreshed with new works, showcasing the incredible talent of our local artists while also offering passengers a fresh perspective on the city.”

“Nieuport Aviation has supported public art installations in the passenger terminal of YTZ for many years and we give great credit to our partners at PortsToronto for enhancing the pedestrian tunnel through the exciting Perspectives program,” said Neil Pakey, President and CEO, Nieuport Aviation. “The launch of Perspectives will bring fresh viewpoints from new artists into the mix and enable our community and travellers alike to enjoy the airport as a permanent public arts venue.”

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.

“I am an Anishinaabe artist from Nipissing First Nation and I currently work out of Toronto. These designs are inspired from my Anishinaabe culture, teachings, language and ceremonies. These designs are layered in teachings. Each design has a minimum of 7 layers. Teachings are layered to highlight the laws of nature. This art form is designed to show the balance of nature and duality. The physical and spiritual worlds. The art is also designed to be a visual healing experience. The departures and arrivals designs are meant to be welcoming and farewelling with peace love and respect.  Aanin and Boozhoo are common greetings in Anishinaabemowin. Biindigen means welcome. Baamaapii translates to “I will see you later” and is a common farewell. There is no word for goodbye in Anishinaabemowin. Biskaabiiyaang is describing someone who has been on a long journey and is on their way home.  I felt these words in my language complimented everyone travelling through Billy Bishop Airport.”  

–       Que Rock, Artist

“All of my work is inspired by urban density, architecture, and Toronto’s waterfront spanning from the RC Harris Water Treatment plant in the east, to Bathurst and Queens Quay in the West. In my drawings I always try to capture the feelings and details of spaces in downtown Toronto. Growing up in the suburbs you don’t really see much density with buildings, stores or people. Downtown Toronto has a unique mixture of old and new architecture literally built side by side or on top of an old building. Billy Bishop Airport has given me this tremendous opportunity to showcase my drawings in a very large scale. I hope this brings in more viewers to my type of drawing & painting.” 

–       Mariana Hernandez, Artist

“As a photographer, I strive to capture the heart and soul of Toronto—the energy, the culture, and the everyday moments that make this city so special. Being part of the Perspectives program is an incredible opportunity to share my vision with travelers from around the world and to celebrate the diverse beauty of our city through art. My art pieces look to show perspectives of the city through a mix of seasons, weather, nature and city life so travellers can get a glimpse of life in the city at any moment in time.”

–       Jonathan Gazze, Artist

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.   

About Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport
Offering service to more than 20 cities in Canada and the U.S., with connection opportunities to more than 100 international destinations via our airlines’ networks, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is an important international gateway that will deliver a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Preclearance facility in 2025. The airport is a key driver to Toronto’s economy, generating more than $2.1 billion in total economic output and supporting 4,450 jobs, including 2,080 directly associated with the airport’s operations. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has served its community for more than 85 years from its iconic location on the Toronto waterfront, where it facilitates healthcare for Ontarians by providing a base for medevac services connected to local hospitals. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is committed to achieving its vision of cleaner, greener and quieter operations, and is renowned for its unique travel experience, efficiency, and customer service, having won a host of passenger-driven and environmental achievement awards. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is owned and operated by PortsToronto. Nieuport Aviation owns and operates the passenger terminal at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. To learn more, please visit billybishopairport.com.

TORONTO, Jan. 15, 2025 /CNW/ – Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport today launched the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program for passengers travelling to and from the heart of downtown Toronto. The program offers individuals who have a non-visible disability with the option to wear a sunflower lanyard or sticker, providing a discrete way of signalling to airport staff that they may require additional support or a little more time or patience.

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.

“We are committed to ensuring that all Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport passengers have a positive experience inclusive of their individual needs,” said RJ Steenstra, President and CEO, PortsToronto. “By offering discreet, personalized assistance through the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, we aim to make travel more accessible and less stressful for those with hidden disabilities, enabling them to feel more confident and supported throughout their journey.”

“Our participation in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program will make the passenger terminal at YTZ a more inclusive place for our travellers,” said Neil Pakey, President and CEO, Nieuport Aviation. “Air travel should be something that everyone can enjoy, and we’re pleased to demonstrate our commitment to accessibility through our membership with such an acclaimed program.”

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.

About Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

Offering service to more than 20 cities in Canada and the U.S., with connection opportunities to more than 100 international destinations via our airlines’ networks, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is an important international gateway that will deliver a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Preclearance facility in 2025. The airport is a key driver to Toronto’s economy, generating more than $2.1 billion in total economic output and supporting 4,450 jobs, including 2,080 directly associated with the airport’s operations. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has served its community for 85 years from its iconic location on the Toronto waterfront, where it facilitates healthcare for Ontarians by providing a base for medevac services connected to local hospitals. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is committed to achieving its vision of cleaner, greener and quieter operations, and is renowned for its unique travel experience, efficiency, and customer service, having won a host of passenger-driven and environmental achievement awards. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is owned and operated by PortsToronto. Learn more at billybishopairport.com.

About the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program

Since its launch in 2016, businesses from every sector have been joining the global Sunflower network—ranging from retail, travel, tourism and transport, including over 280  airports—as well as railway networks, coach and bus services and ferries, education (universities, schools and colleges), healthcare, central and local government agencies, football teams, theme parks, theatres and financial institutions. 

The Sunflower has now been launched locally in Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark and the Nordics, Ireland, Latin America, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the UK, the UAE and the USA.

Learn more by visiting www.hdsunflower.com. 

Passengers, employees, community members and airport partners come together to help the expected 300,000+ client visits who will access Daily Bread’s services this month

TORONTO, Dec. 3, 2024 /CNW/ – Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is pleased to announce that its November donation drive for Daily Bread Food Bank has raised $26,582.00 for Torontonians in need this holiday season. The drive was offered to passengers and employees through physical and digital signage, along with tiptap stands placed throughout the terminal building to make donating as simple as tapping a debit or credit card.

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

“I was among thirty employees from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport who had the opportunity to volunteer at the Daily Bread Food Bank facility this month as part of our donation drive and awareness campaign,” says Warren Askew, Vice President, Airport, PortsToronto. “We saw first-hand how this donation will help provide vital food supplies that reflect the diverse cultural needs in our region and are distributed through Daily Bread’s 129 member agencies throughout Toronto. Thank you to our passengers, employees, and partners who contributed to making a difference for families in need this holiday season.”

“YTZ connects people and businesses across distances, but we’re also making vital connections in our community,” says Neil Pakey, President and CEO, Nieuport Aviation, “Over the past year, more than 150,000 new individuals started using food bank services for the first time, so the need is greater than ever. I’d like to thank all of our partners, passengers and employees who contributed to this very worthy cause.”

“We thank our partners at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport for raising much needed funds for the second year in a row,” says Neil Hetherington, CEO, Daily Bread Food Bank. “Their efforts will enable us to distribute over 25,000 meals to our neighbours in need this holiday season.”

More than 1 in 10 Torontonians rely on food banks, a 36% increase in unique clients compared to last year. Moreover, after paying rent and utilities, food bank clients have a median of just $7.78 left per person, per day to pay for all other necessities. For those who missed the donation drive but would still like to contribute, Daily Bread Food Bank graciously accepts donations at any time of the year at https://www.dailybread.ca/.

About Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)

Offering service to more than 20 cities in Canada and the U.S., with connection opportunities to more than 80 international destinations via our airlines’ networks, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is an important international gateway that will offer US Preclearance in 2025. The airport is a key driver to Toronto’s economy, generating more than $2.1 billion in total economic output and supporting 4,450 jobs, including 2,080 directly associated with the airport’s operations. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has served its community for 85 years from its iconic location on the Toronto waterfront, where it facilitates healthcare for Ontarians by providing a base for medevac services connected to local hospitals. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is committed to achieving its vision of cleaner, greener and quieter operations, and is renowned for its unique travel experience, efficiency, and customer service, having won a host of passenger-driven and environmental achievement awards. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is owned and operated by PortsToronto. To learn more, visit www.billybishopairport.com.

About PortsToronto

For more than 100 years PortsToronto has worked with its partners at the federal, provincial and municipal levels to enhance the economic growth of the City of Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. PortsToronto owns and operates Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, which welcomed approximately 2.8 million passengers in 2019; the Outer Harbour Marina, one of Canada’s largest freshwater marinas; and the marine Port of Toronto that includes businesses in a variety of sectors including marine shipping, cargo services, media production and passenger cruises. PortsToronto is committed to fostering strong, healthy and sustainable communities and has invested more than $28 million since 2009 in charitable initiatives and environmental programs that benefit communities along Toronto’s waterfront and beyond. PortsToronto operates in accordance with the Canada Marine Act and is guided by a board with representation from all three levels of government.

About Nieuport Aviation

Nieuport Aviation is the owner and operator of the passenger terminal at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Backed by Canadian and international pension funds and supported by significant international expertise in managing aviation operations, we are committed to world-class customer service for the millions of customers using the airport. In addition to managing the passenger terminal, Nieuport Aviation offers passengers a free bus shuttle service between the airport and downtown Toronto, helping to provide a seamless travel experience. For more information, please visit www.nieuport.com. Since acquiring the airport terminal, Nieuport has invested $60 million in upgrades, recently opening the Aspire Business Lounge for Canadian travellers. Nieuport is further investing in the development of the US Customs pre-clearance facility, to be opened in 2025. For more information, please visit www.nieuport.com.

About Daily Bread Food Bank

Daily Bread Food Bank works towards long-term solutions to end hunger and poverty and runs innovative programs to support individuals living on low income and experiencing food insecurity. Daily Bread distributes fresh and shelf-stable food, and fresh-cooked meals to 205 food programs at 129 member agencies across Toronto. Daily Bread also publishes the influential Who’s Hungry report – an annual survey measuring trends in food insecurity and poverty in Toronto to educate the public and spark policy change. To learn more, click here.

Month-long donation drive for Daily Bread Food Bank aims to bring airport passengers, employers and workers together to combat food scarcity ahead of the holidays

TORONTO, Nov. 6, 2024 /CNW/ – Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is once again kicking off the holiday season early by announcing a month-long donation drive at the airport for Toronto’s Daily Bread Food Bank. Donations will go toward helping the thousands of families facing hunger and food insecurity this holiday season.

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.

“Daily Bread Food Bank is reporting skyrocketing food insecurity in the City of Toronto and across the region. Through this campaign, we have an opportunity to provide much-needed resources to families in need,” says RJ Steenstra, President and Chief Executive Officer of PortsToronto,. “Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is connecting the cause with thousands of passengers, staff and community members who can easily make a donation by tapping at kiosks throughout the airport, or through the online platform. Together we can make a meaningful impact this holiday season.”

“YTZ is a vital transportation hub for Toronto, and we’ve also made great strides in becoming an integral part of our community,” said Neil Pakey, President and CEO, Nieuport Aviation. “That’s why the YTZ family is committed to making a difference in people’s lives during the holiday season when food bank access is traditionally highest. We hope everyone passing through the airport during the month of November will join us in supporting this very worthwhile cause.”

“Right now, one in ten of our Toronto neighbours is struggling to put food on the table,” says Neil Hetherington, CEO, Daily Bread Food Bank. “At a time of such dire need, we are deeply grateful to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport for this wonderful initiative. The funds raised through this campaign will directly help families in need of emergency food support this holiday season.”

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.

About Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)

Offering service to more than 20 cities in Canada and the U.S., with connection opportunities to more than 80 international destinations via our airlines’ networks, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is an important international gateway that will offer US Preclearance in 2025. The airport is a key driver to Toronto’s economy, generating more than $2.1 billion in total economic output and supporting 4,450 jobs, including 2,080 directly associated with the airport’s operations. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has served its community for 85 years from its iconic location on the Toronto waterfront, where it facilitates healthcare for Ontarians by providing a base for medevac services connected to local hospitals. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is committed to achieving its vision of cleaner, greener and quieter operations, and is renowned for its unique travel experience, efficiency, and customer service, having won a host of passenger-driven and environmental achievement awards. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is owned and operated by PortsToronto. To learn more, visit www.billybishopairport.com.

About PortsToronto

For more than 100 years PortsToronto has worked with its partners at the federal, provincial and municipal levels to enhance the economic growth of the City of Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. PortsToronto owns and operates Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, which welcomed approximately 2.8 million passengers in 2019; the Outer Harbour Marina, one of Canada’s largest freshwater marinas; and the marine Port of Toronto that includes businesses in a variety of sectors including marine shipping, cargo services, media production and passenger cruises. PortsToronto is committed to fostering strong, healthy and sustainable communities and has invested more than $28 million since 2009 in charitable initiatives and environmental programs that benefit communities along Toronto’s waterfront and beyond. PortsToronto operates in accordance with the Canada Marine Act and is guided by a board with representation from all three levels of government.

About Nieuport Aviation

Nieuport Aviation is the owner and operator of the passenger terminal at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Backed by Canadian and international pension funds and supported by significant international expertise in managing aviation operations, we are committed to world-class customer service for the millions of customers using the airport. In addition to managing the passenger terminal, Nieuport Aviation offers passengers a free bus shuttle service between the airport and downtown Toronto, helping to provide a seamless travel experience. For more information, please visit www.nieuport.com. Since acquiring the airport terminal, Nieuport has invested $60 million in upgrades, recently opening the Aspire Business Lounge for Canadian travellers. Nieuport is further investing in the development of the US Customs pre-clearance facility, to be opened in 2025. For more information, please visit www.nieuport.com.

About Daily Bread Food Bank

Daily Bread Food Bank works towards long-term solutions to end hunger and poverty and runs innovative programs to support individuals living on low income and experiencing food insecurity. Daily Bread distributes fresh and shelf-stable food, and fresh-cooked meals to  205 food programs at  129 member agencies across Toronto. Daily Bread also publishes the influential Who’s Hungry report – an annual survey measuring trends in food insecurity and poverty in Toronto to educate the public and spark policy change. To learn more, click here.

Preclearance would result in enhanced security, increased route offerings and passenger convenience, and could grow airport’s annual economic contribution to $5.3 billion

TORONTO, Sept. 27, 2024 /CNW/ – Officials from the Government of Canada, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) gathered this morning near the future site of the airport’s U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility, made possible in part by an investment of $30 million by the Government of Canada, to reaffirm their commitment to bring Preclearance to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Preclearance offers enhanced security to the border-crossing process while boosting the economies of both countries through facilitated travel between Canada and the United States.

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.

“The ability to clear U.S. Customs on home soil will greatly enhance the passenger experience, and offer tremendous benefit to the City of Toronto and surrounding region as it will open new markets and amplify the benefits associated with the airport’s contribution to facilitating trade and tourism, creating jobs, supporting healthcare and driving innovation,” said RJ Steenstra, President and CEO, PortsToronto. “We would like to recognize the Federal Government for its commitment to the long-term future of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, and for its investment of $30 million in capital funding to bring U.S. Preclearance to Toronto’s downtown airport. We look forward to continued collaboration with all levels of government on both sides of the border to ensure Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport remains a vital piece of transportation infrastructure and an economic driver for Toronto and the surrounding region for many years to come.”

“Today’s event and the collaborative work from so many partners to bring U.S. Preclearance to the airport positions YTZ to better deliver on the needs of our travellers,” said Neil Pakey, President and CEO, Nieuport Aviation. “The increased convenience and choice that Preclearance facilitates must be underpinned by a long-term future for the airport—one that will allow us to continue to be a strong economic driver for Toronto, Ontario and Canada for decades to come.”

“The Government of Canada is committed to enhancing travel convenience and security for Canadians. That’s why we invested $30 million in June 2023 to build a new U.S. preclearance facility at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport,” said the Honourable Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board and Minister of Transport. “This initiative will not only improve the passenger experience but also foster economic growth, boost tourism and enhance trade and security between our nations.”

“Today we double down on our commitment to streamlining the travel experience, bolstering security, and building on the strong partnership between the United States and Canada,” said Robert Silvers, Under Secretary for Policy at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. “Expanding preclearance to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will benefit the traveling public from both our countries.”

“Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport serves as an important gateway for business and recreational travel between the United States and Canada, a key enabler of the $2.5 billion USD ($3.4 billion CAD) per day in goods and services trade between our two countries,” said David L. Cohen, U.S. Ambassador to Canada. “Today’s announcement is a reaffirmation of our countries’ commitment to ensuring safe and efficient travel and trade across our shared border, continuing our long history of working together and reinforcing the importance of our enduring friendship.”

“Today’s event exemplifies the strong relationship between Canada and the United States,” said the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs. “Through preclearance, Canada and the United States work hand in hand every day to intercept security threats early, while delivering large-scale economic benefits for Canadians and Americans through facilitated travel. Our government is proud to collaborate with our partners to support the continued expansion of Preclearance sites, here at Billy Bishop Airport and across the country.”

“Bringing Preclearance to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport not only strengthens the ties between the United States and Canada, but it enhances security by addressing potential threats before they reach our borders and significantly improves the travel experience for passengers,” said Troy A. Miller, CBP Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Commissioner. “This initiative will create new opportunities for cross-border trade, tourism, and economic growth, while ensuring the safety and efficiency of our border operations.”

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.

About Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

Offering service to more than 20 cities in Canada and the U.S., with connection opportunities to more than 100 international destinations via our airlines’ networks, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is an important international gateway that will deliver a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Preclearance facility in 2025. The airport is a key driver to Toronto’s economy, generating more than $2.1 billion in total economic output and supporting 4,450 jobs, including 2,080 directly associated with the airport’s operations. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has served its community for 85 years from its iconic location on the Toronto waterfront, where it facilitates healthcare for Ontarians by providing a base for medevac services connected to local hospitals. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is committed to achieving its vision of cleaner, greener and quieter operations, and is renowned for its unique travel experience, efficiency, and customer service, having won a host of passenger-driven and environmental achievement awards. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is owned and operated by PortsToronto.

About PortsToronto

For more than 100 years PortsToronto has worked with its partners at the federal, provincial and municipal levels to enhance the economic growth of the City of Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. PortsToronto owns and operates Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, which welcomed approximately 2.8 million passengers in 2019; the Outer Harbour Marina, one of Canada’s largest freshwater marinas; and the marine Port of Toronto that includes businesses in a variety of sectors including marine shipping, cargo services, media production and passenger cruises. PortsToronto is committed to fostering strong, healthy and sustainable communities and has invested more than $28 million since 2009 in charitable initiatives and environmental programs that benefit communities along Toronto’s waterfront and beyond. PortsToronto operates in accordance with the Canada Marine Act and is guided by a board with representation from all three levels of government.

About Nieuport Aviation

Nieuport Aviation is the owner and operator of the passenger terminal at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Backed by Canadian and international pension funds and supported by significant international expertise in managing aviation operations, we are committed to world-class customer service for the millions of customers using the airport. In addition to managing the passenger terminal, Nieuport Aviation offers passengers a free bus shuttle service between the airport and downtown Toronto, helping to provide a seamless travel experience. For more information, please visit www.nieuport.com. Since acquiring the airport terminal, Nieuport has invested $60 million in upgrades, recently opening the Aspire Business Lounge for Canadian travellers. Nieuport is further investing in the development of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Preclearance facility, to be delivered in late 2025. For more information, please visit www.nieuport.com.

TORONTO, Sept. 11, 2024 /CNW/ – Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) has received Level 1 Airport Carbon Accreditation in recognition of its carbon management and sustainability efforts. The recognition was confirmed yesterday in Grand Rapids, Michigan, at the Airports Council International – North America Annual Conference and Exhibition.

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.

“Achieving Level 1 Airport Carbon Accreditation is a significant milestone and reflects a strong commitment to sustainability by the airport. This achievement recognizes our efforts over the last several years to operate a cleaner, greener, quieter airport, and marks a significant milestone in our commitment to reducing our footprint. This kind of achievement not only demonstrates responsible aviation practices but also sets a positive example for other airports to follow. By better understanding our current impact, PortsToronto and its partners throughout the airport campus can continue to make informed decisions, champion responsible aviation practices, and drive progress toward our shared sustainability vision,” said RJ Steenstra, President and CEO of PortsToronto, owner and operator of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

“The best first step toward driving consistent, measurable improvement is to comprehensively track impacts and activities,” said Neil Pakey, President and CEO, Nieuport Aviation. “The framework provided by ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation program has given us a solid foundation to build upon the already significant steps taken to make YTZ a cleaner and greener airport. A clear understanding of where we are on our sustainability journey allows all partners at the airport to align on where we want to be—and, importantly, on the steps we need to take to get there.”

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.

About Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)

Offering service to more than 20 cities in Canada and the U.S., with connection opportunities to more than 100 international destinations via our airlines’ networks, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is an important international gateway that will offer US Preclearance in 2025. The airport is a key driver to Toronto’s economy, generating more than $2.1 billion in total economic output and supporting 4,450 jobs, including 2,080 directly associated with the airport’s operations. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has served its community for 85 years from its iconic location on the Toronto waterfront, where it facilitates healthcare for Ontarians by providing a base for medevac services connected to local hospitals. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is committed to achieving its vision of cleaner, greener and quieter operations, and is renowned for its unique travel experience, efficiency, and customer service, having won a host of passenger-driven and environmental achievement awards. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is owned and operated by PortsToronto. 

About the Airport Carbon Accreditation

Airport Carbon Accreditation is the only institutionally-endorsed, global carbon management certification programme for airports. It independently assesses and recognises the efforts of airports to manage and reduce their carbon emissions through 7 levels of certification: ‘Mapping’, ‘Reduction’, ‘Optimisation’, ‘Neutrality’, ‘Transformation’, ‘Transition’ and ‘Level 5’.
Through its 7 levels of certification, Airport Carbon Accreditation acknowledges that airports are at different stages in their journey towards comprehensive carbon management. It is a programme for airports of all sizes, extending beyond hubs and regional airports with scheduled passenger traffic, to include general aviation and freight-focused airports.

Free event designed to inspire and empower girls to take their passion for aviation and aerospace to new heights will feature exhibition hall, speaker series, behind the scenes access, aircraft displays, exploration flights and more.

TORONTO, Sept. 9, 2024 /CNW/ – On Saturday, September 21, 2024, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will host its inaugural Girls Take Flight – a free event designed to inspire and empower girls and underrepresented groups to explore careers in aviation and aerospace.

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.  

About Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)

Offering service to more than 20 cities in Canada and the U.S., with connection opportunities to more than 100 international destinations via our airlines’ networks, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is an important international gateway that will offer US Preclearance in 2025. The airport is a key driver to Toronto’s economy, generating more than $2.1 billion in total economic output and supporting 4,450 jobs, including 2,080 directly associated with the airport’s operations. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has served its community for 85 years from its iconic location on the Toronto waterfront, where it facilitates healthcare for Ontarians by providing a base for medevac services connected to local hospitals. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is committed to achieving its vision of cleaner, greener and quieter operations, and is renowned for its unique travel experience, efficiency, and customer service, having won a host of passenger-driven and environmental achievement awards. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is owned and operated by PortsToronto. 

SOURCE Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

TORONTO, Aug. 19, 2024 /CNW/ – Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport today released its 2023 Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) Report, which measures the airport’s efforts to be cleaner, greener and quieter and progress toward its vision to be the global leader for how a modern airport operates in an urban environment.

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.

“Airports play a critical role in building cities that thrive. They connect people, ideas, goods and services, providing communities with vital links for their economic, physical and mental wellbeing. PortsToronto has owned and operated Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport since 1939 – that’s 85 years of serving Toronto and serving passengers,” said RJ Steenstra, President and Chief Executive Office of PortsToronto. 

“Our location on Toronto’s waterfront placed sustainability at the front and center of our organization long before we formalized our ESG efforts in 2023. A commitment to sustainable operations and responsible governance is at the core of our mission at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Along with our partner Nieuport Aviation, PortsToronto is invested in operating a cleaner, greener and quieter airport that will continue to serve passengers and its community for the next 85 years,” continued Steenstra.

“Over and above our geographic location in the heart of Toronto, YTZ is making great strides in becoming a part of the fabric of our community,” says Neil Pakey, President and CEO of Nieuport Aviation, owner and operator of the airport’s passenger terminal. “This starts with our collective commitment to environmental sustainability—a priority we share with other stakeholders. It extends to our support of over 30 community organizations and charities, our commitment to reflecting the city’s diversity through art, and our focus on our employees, the heart and soul of our airport.

“While we’ve come a long way towards being a leader in the aviation industry across these areas of focus, Nieuport Aviation, PortsToronto and other partners at the airport recognize that we have more to do,” continued Pakey. “This report is not only a record of where we are collectively, but it also signals our commitment to continuous improvement for the benefit of travellers, the community and airport employees.”

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.

About Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)
Offering service to more than 20 cities in Canada and the U.S., with connection opportunities to more than 100 international destinations via our airlines’ networks, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is an important international gateway that will offer US Preclearance in 2025. The airport is a key driver to Toronto’s economy, generating more than $2.1 billion in total economic output and supporting 4,450 jobs, including 2,080 directly associated with the airport’s operations. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has served its community for 85 years from its iconic location on the Toronto waterfront, where it facilitates healthcare for Ontarians by providing a base for medevac services connected to local hospitals. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is committed to achieving its vision of cleaner, greener and quieter operations, and is renowned for its unique travel experience, efficiency, and customer service, having won a host of passenger-driven and environmental achievement awards. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is owned and operated by PortsToronto. 

About PortsToronto 
For more than 100 years PortsToronto has worked with its partners at the federal, provincial and municipal levels to enhance the economic growth of the City of Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. PortsToronto owns and operates Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, which welcomed two million passengers in 2023; the Outer Harbour Marina, one of Canada’s largest freshwater marinas; and the marine Port of Toronto that includes businesses in a variety of sectors including marine shipping, cargo services, media production and passenger cruises. PortsToronto is committed to fostering strong, healthy and sustainable communities and has invested more than $28 million since 2009 in charitable initiatives and environmental programs that benefit communities along Toronto’s waterfront and beyond. PortsToronto operates in accordance with the Canada Marine Act and is guided by a board with representation from all three levels of government.

About Nieuport Aviation
Nieuport Aviation is the owner and operator of the passenger terminal at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Backed by Canadian and international pension funds and supported by significant international expertise in managing aviation operations, we are committed to world-class customer service for the millions of customers using the airport. In addition to managing the passenger terminal, Nieuport Aviation offers passengers a free bus shuttle service between the airport and downtown Toronto, helping to provide a seamless travel experience. Since acquiring the airport terminal, Nieuport has invested $60 million in upgrades, recently opening the Aspire Business Lounge for Canadian travellers. Nieuport is further investing in the development of the US Customs preclearance facility, to be opened in 2025.