If you’re looking for a quicker and smoother flying experience right from the heart of Toronto, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is where your journey should begin. Located just minutes from the downtown core, this airport is not only accessible but also designed for travelers who value time and convenience. Whether you’re commuting for business, heading to a weekend getaway, or planning a trip to visit shooting locations in Canada, this airport keeps things simple, efficient, and close to the action.
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport: a Brief History
Billy Bishop Toronto Airport has been around since 1939, originally opened as Port George VI Island Airport. It was later renamed to honor Billy Bishop, one of Canada’s top World War I flying aces. His reputation for courage and victory in the air gives the airport its name and spirit.
For many years, the airport was primarily used for general aviation, but in the early 2000s, it began shifting toward commercial use. This change, led largely by the introduction of Porter Airlines, made the airport an attractive alternative to Toronto Pearson for regional travelers.
One game-changing development was the opening of the pedestrian tunnel in 2015. Before that, access was only possible via ferry. The tunnel now allows travelers to walk from the mainland to the terminal in just six minutes—no waiting, no water crossings if you don’t want them.
Getting There: Location & Access
The location of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is one of its strongest advantages. Situated on the Toronto Islands, it’s just over 100 meters from the mainland and less than 3 kilometers from Toronto’s Financial District.
Getting to the airport is easy. You can walk through the tunnel, hop on a quick ferry that runs every 15 minutes, or take the free shuttle from Union Station. There’s even a designated drop-off point for Uber and other rideshares. For public transport users, TTC streetcars and buses stop close to the entrance of the tunnel, and cyclists have access to bike paths leading directly to the terminal.
Airlines and Destinations
Two major airlines operate out of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport: Porter Airlines and Air Canada Express. These carriers cover a number of regional routes across Canada and key U.S. cities.
Popular destinations include:
- Montreal
- Ottawa
- Quebec City
- Halifax
- Thunder Bay
- New York (EWR)
- Boston
- Chicago
- Washington D.C.
Porter Airlines leads the way with the highest number of flights, making it ideal for business travelers and those who fly frequently between Canadian cities. The U.S. Preclearance facility currently in development is expected to expand international access even further, improving travel times and reducing customs-related delays.
Awards That Speak Volumes
It’s not just the convenience that makes people prefer this airport. Billy Bishop Toronto Airport was named Canada’s Best Airport in 2024 by AirHelp. It has also appeared multiple times in the Skytrax World Airport Awards for top performance among airports with fewer than five million passengers per year.
These recognitions highlight the airport’s strong focus on service, punctuality, and traveler satisfaction. Whether you’re arriving for business or just for a visit you’ll likely appreciate the smooth experience from check-in to takeoff.
Leading the Way in Sustainability
The airport has been 100% powered by renewable electricity since 2010. It also launched Canada’s first zero-emission ferry, the Marilyn Bell I, which cut out hundreds of tonnes of carbon emissions each year.
There are ongoing upgrades including electric shuttle buses, energy-efficient lighting, and noise reduction programs. Even the firefighting foam used on-site is free of harmful PFAS chemicals—a North American first.
Their waste management program also turns airport-generated garbage into energy, offsetting over 500 tonnes of CO₂. So, when you fly out of this airport, you’re also contributing to a cleaner urban future.
Final Thoughts
For travelers seeking comfort, speed, and proximity to downtown, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport checks all the right boxes. It’s modern, efficient, and deeply rooted in Canadian aviation history. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or someone planning a spontaneous trip this airport delivers an experience that’s as stress-free as it is reliable.
So the next time you’re planning your escape or heading out for work, consider Billy Bishop Toronto Airport the smart airport for city-based flyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need to take a ferry to access the airport?
No. You can take the ferry or walk through a pedestrian tunnel with moving sidewalks. Both options are quick and easy.
Q2: Is the shuttle bus to Union Station free?
Yes, there’s a free shuttle that runs regularly between the airport and Union Station.
Q3: Which airlines fly out of this airport?
Porter Airlines and Air Canada Express operate from here, flying to cities like Montreal, Ottawa, Boston, and New York.
Q4: Can I get an Uber to or from the airport?
Yes. Uber, Lyft, and other rideshares are allowed and have dedicated pickup/drop-off zones.
Q5: Are there hotels nearby?
Several hotels are within a few minutes’ drive or walk, including Hotel X Toronto and Radisson Blu.