New Heritage Toronto Commemorative Plaque Honours 85 Years of Flight at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport
Newest addition to Heritage Toronto’s city-wide plaque program marks Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport’s 85th anniversary and contributions to the development of aviation in Toronto
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and Heritage Toronto today unveiled a new plaque commemorating 85 Years of Flight at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.
On September 8, 1939, a charter flight carrying band leader and famed trombone player Tommy Dorsey landed at Toronto’s downtown, island airport – setting the stage for its success and transformation over the decades. From these beginnings in 1939, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has served as an important commercial aviation centre connecting Toronto to the world; as a training ground for both the Royal Canadian and Royal Norwegian Air Forces during World War II; as a hub for General Aviation and life-saving emergency Medevac services; and as a key driver of Toronto’s economy. Learn more about the airport’s rich history here.
“This historical commemorative plaque offers an invitation to reflect on the rich history and enduring contributions of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. PortsToronto’s predecessor agency, the Toronto Harbour Commission, built the airport 85 years ago, and it has since gone on to be recognized as one of North America’s best in terms of convenience and award-winning passenger experience. It is also a lifeline for emergency medevac and medial transportation charities like Hope Air; a connector for tourism and trade; an economic driver; and a good neighbour through its community and environmental initiatives Ours is a story of transformation, resilience and community commitment that will continue to shape our city in the decades to come.”
“Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has been a vital gateway to Toronto for 85 years, connecting our city to the world and serving as a cornerstone of innovation and economic development. This plaque honours the airport’s storied past and celebrates its bright future.”
“One of Toronto’s first and longest-running airfields, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has been a central landmark on Toronto’s waterfront for 85 years. This commemorative plaque will join Heritage Toronto’s extensive collection, which consists of almost 900 educational plaques across the city.”
“When you begin to dig into the stories surrounding YTZ, you find layer after layer of history to uncover. From Amelia Earhart’s time in Toronto in 1917 and the passion for aviation that it ignited in her to the lasting influence of the Royal Norwegian Air Force’s time spent training here during the Second World War, there are many stories to uncover. History isn’t only in museums, in books or on the movie screen; it’s in our neighborhoods, our streets, our parks, and even at Toronto’s downtown airport.”
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.