Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport Reports 10 Per Cent Increase in Passenger Traffic During Peak Summer Travel Season
Summer tourism and FIFA help drive double-digit growth
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport experienced a 10 per cent increase in passenger traffic between May and July 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, reflecting strong demand for air travel and the airport's continued role in connecting Toronto to destinations across Canada and key North American markets.
The increase was driven in part by a robust summer tourism season and elevated travel activity associated with FIFA events taking place across North America – including six games hosted at Toronto Stadium, located within walking distance of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport – which contributed to increased visitor movement and connectivity throughout the region.
“As Toronto welcomed a busy summer season filled with world-class events, attractions and business activity, travellers continued to choose Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport for its unmatched convenience and exceptional customer experience,” said RJ Steenstra, President and CEO of the Toronto Port Authority. “Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is more than a transportation hub. It is a gateway that connects people to opportunities, experiences and communities across North America. The strong growth we have seen this summer reflects continued confidence in air travel, Toronto’s momentum as a destination for business and leisure, and the essential role regional airports play in supporting tourism, investment and economic activity.”
“Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport plays a significant role in keeping people, businesses and communities connected, and this summer's growth is a strong reminder of the value it provides to Toronto and the regional economy,” said Jennifer Quinn, CEO of Nieuport Aviation. “Whether supporting tourism, enabling business travel, facilitating access to major events or providing efficient connections for residents and visitors, the airport is an essential piece of the region's transportation network. As demand continues to grow, Nieuport remains committed to continued investment to elevate the passenger experience.”
The strong summer performance follows ongoing investments in passenger experience, accessibility and connectivity, including the launch of U.S. Customs and Border Protection preclearance services. Since preclearance was introduced, passenger traffic to U.S. destinations has tripled, demonstrating the value of convenient cross-border travel from Toronto's downtown airport.
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About Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is an award-winning gateway to Canada’s largest city, offering unmatched convenience just minutes from downtown Toronto. Serving passengers since 1939, the airport provides service to more than 20 cities across Canada and the U.S., with connections to more than 100 global destinations through its airline partners, and a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Preclearance facility.
Renowned for its accessibility, stunning skyline views and 98% passenger satisfaction rating, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport supports critical regional services, including medical travel and medevac operations through Ornge. It is also a key economic driver, supporting more than 4,000 jobs (2,000 directly associated with its operations) and generating approximately $2 billion annually for the regional economy.
Committed to sustainability, the airport is a three-time recipient of the Airports Council International–North America’s Environmental Achievement Award and is certified under Level 2 Airport Carbon Accreditation.
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is owned and operated by the Toronto Port Authority. Nieuport Aviation is the terminal partner and operates the airport’s complimentary shuttle service to and from downtown Toronto. Learn more at billybishopairport.com
The Toronto Port Authority owns and operates Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, which welcomes approximately two million passengers and generates approximately $2 billion in economic impact per year; the Outer Harbour Marina, one of Canada’s largest freshwater marinas; and the marine Port of Toronto, which facilitates businesses such as marine shipping, cargo services and passenger cruises to generate approximately $460 million in economic activity annually. Since 1911, and in its role as a city builder, the Toronto Port Authority has worked with partners and every level of government to enhance Toronto’s transportation infrastructure and economic growth. The Toronto Port Authority is committed to fostering strong, healthy and sustainable communities, and has invested more than $30 million in recent years to fund charitable initiatives and environmental programs that benefit communities along Toronto's waterfront and beyond.
The Toronto Port Authority is a federal agency and operates in accordance with the Canada Marine Act. It is guided by a Board of Directors that includes representation from all three levels of government.