Toronto Pearson Airport kicks off decades-long multi-billion-dollar renovation project

One of the largest airport infrastructure projects in Canadian history officially kicks off today at Toronto Pearson International Airport. 

The $3-billion overhaul is part of Pearson's broader Long-term Investment in Facilities and Terminals (LIFT) program, first announced in 2024, and set to completely transform Canada's busiest airport over the next decade.

As CP24 first reported, the wider renovation project is expected to continue into the 2030s and aims to increase Pearson's annual passenger capacity from roughly 45 million travellers to 65 million. 

The first phase of upgrades includes a new airfield lighting control and management system designed to improve visibility and runway operations, along with expanded aircraft stands and a high-speed taxiway.

Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 will undergo major renovations and expansions to help accommodate growing demand at Pearson, ranked as one of the world's most passenger-friendly airports in 2025.

Pearson is also revamping its baggage infrastructure at Terminal 1, with 30 kilometres of conveyor systems being upgraded using new cameras and sensors intended to improve efficiency and detect issues earlier.

The airport says it will modernize and expand its airfield to approximately 2.2 million square metres, allowing it to handle an estimated 28,000 additional passengers per day.

Other planned improvements include repaved runways, modernized retail spaces, additional electric vehicle charging stations and potential future terminal expansions.

The major renewal push comes as the federal government explores the possible privatization of Canada's airports amid growing infrastructure costs nationwide.

blogTO has reached out to Pearson for additional details on the project. This is a developing story and may be updated.