Toronto Airport: Efficient Check-In Strategies For Travelers

Toronto Pearson Airport offers a variety of tools to help passengers plan and streamline their journey. For a seamless travel experience, it is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport two hours before domestic departures and three hours before international departures. To speed up the check-in process, passengers can check in online or via the Air Canada App 24 hours before their trip. At the airport, accessible self-service check-in kiosks are available throughout the departures level of Terminals 1 and 3.

Arrive early: 2-3 hours before for domestic/international flights

Toronto Pearson Airport recommends that passengers flying internationally arrive at the airport at least 3-4 hours before their scheduled departure time. For domestic flights, it is recommended that passengers arrive at least 90 minutes before their scheduled departure time. Arriving early ensures that you have enough time to navigate through security and customs procedures without feeling rushed.

If your international flight is scheduled to depart before 9 am, Toronto Pearson Airport advises you to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your departure time. This will give you ample time to complete security and customs procedures, which can be time-consuming during peak travel seasons or busy travel times.

For a seamless travel experience, it is important to adhere to the check-in and baggage drop-off deadlines outlined in your itinerary. Most airlines allow you to check in and drop off your baggage up to 4 hours before your flight's departure. This helps to reduce congestion at security and customs. Remember that once the baggage counter closes, you cannot check in any more bags. If you are travelling with heavy or oversized luggage, allow for additional time, as these bags may take longer to check in.

To streamline your airport experience, consider checking in online or using the airline's mobile app, if available. Some airlines allow you to check in up to 24 hours before your flight, giving you peace of mind and a head start on your travel day. Additionally, if you are flying to the United States, you can expedite your customs process by using the Mobile Passport Control app, introduced by United States Customs and Border Protection.

Check-in online or via the Air Canada App 24 hours before

Checking in online or on the Air Canada App is a convenient way to save time at the airport. Here is a step-by-step guide to checking in online or via the Air Canada App 24 hours before your flight:

• Download the Air Canada Mobile App: The Air Canada mobile app is available for download on Apple iOS and Android devices. This will allow you to access all the features you need to check in and manage your trip.
• Timing: You can check in anytime from 24 hours before your flight's departure. It is recommended to check in ahead of time to beat the queues and ensure a smooth travel experience.
• Log In: Sign in to your Aeroplan account or create one if you don't have an account already.
• Booking Information: To check in for your flight, you will need your booking reference, Aeroplan number, or ticket number. You will also need your travel documents, such as your passport or other accepted government-issued ID. If you are travelling to the U.S., you will need to provide an address for your stay.
• Choose Your Options: During the check-in process, you can select your seat, indicate the number of bags you are checking in, and pay any associated fees. You can also add or change your loyalty program number, upload any required health documents, and explore other available options.
• Boarding Pass: After completing the check-in process, you can choose to print your boarding pass or have it sent to your mobile device for easy access. If you choose to receive a mobile boarding pass, it will be available within the app and can also be added to your mobile wallet for offline access.
• Bag Drop: If you have checked bags, you can drop them off at the designated baggage drop counter at the airport. Bag drop counters usually open four hours before the flight's departure. It is recommended to drop off your bags early to reduce congestion at security and customs.
• At the Airport: When you arrive at the airport, follow the signs to security and then to your gate. If you need to print baggage tags, you can use a check-in kiosk before proceeding to the Air Canada baggage counter.

By following these steps, you can efficiently check in for your flight from the convenience of your home or mobile device, saving time and making your travel experience through Toronto Airport more seamless.

Use touchless self-serve kiosks and automated baggage drops

Toronto Pearson Airport has introduced touchless self-serve kiosks and automated baggage drops to enhance the passenger experience and make the check-in process easier. These kiosks are available in both terminals and allow passengers to move quickly and seamlessly from the curb to security. Here's how you can use these touchless self-serve kiosks and automated baggage drops for a smooth check-in process:

The touchless self-serve kiosks are easy to use and designed to get you through the airport process seamlessly. To use the self-serve kiosks, make sure you have your booking reference, payment card, or Aeroplan or Star Alliance™ frequent flyer card ready. You can also use the barcode on your itinerary receipt for identification. These kiosks can be used if you have purchased your ticket through the Internet, Air Canada Reservations, or a travel agent. The kiosks are also equipped with a "Change Seats" button, allowing you to make seat changes easily. Additionally, you can use the kiosks to pay any additional checked baggage charges using your payment card. Simply follow the instructions on the Baggage Selection screen.

If you are travelling in a group, you can check in up to 9 passengers at a time using the self-serve kiosks. For larger groups, the group representative can complete multiple check-in sessions. Make sure to have the first and last names of all passengers, the total number of bags per passenger, and any necessary APIS information, such as gender, date of birth, and passport details.

The automated baggage drops further streamline the check-in process. You can drop off your bags at the automated baggage drop-off counter as early as 4 hours before your flight's departure, helping to reduce congestion at security and customs. Remember to allow enough time for checking in any heavy or larger bags, as they may take longer. You can use the checked baggage calculator on the Toronto Pearson Airport website to determine your free baggage allowance and any additional fees.

The kiosks and self-serve bag drops have been updated with touchless technology to minimize physical contact and enhance sanitization. This is part of Toronto Pearson's Healthy Airport commitment, which includes implementing the highest standards for cleaning and hygiene, clear communications, and innovative technology advancements.

Prepare for extra questions and document requirements

Checking in at Toronto Pearson Airport involves more than just the usual travel requirements. At the time of check-in, you should be prepared to answer extra questions and fulfil additional document requirements. This is standard procedure for all passengers and is in place to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

Firstly, be prepared to provide a health declaration, which is dependent on the requirements of your end destination. It is important to research this in advance, as some documentation may take time to collect. For example, many countries require proof of a negative COVID-19 test result for entry, and you will need to schedule this test in advance of your arrival at the airport. It is also important to confirm what type of test is required, as PCR and antigen test results are not interchangeable, and tests must be taken within a set time frame.

Secondly, be aware that your travel destination may have specific requirements mandated by the local government. Again, it is essential to research this ahead of time and come prepared with the necessary documentation.

Thirdly, make use of the touchless self-serve check-in kiosks and automated baggage drops available in both terminals. These allow you to move quickly and seamlessly through the airport. You can also check in online from home to speed up the process and then use a touchless kiosk in the check-in lobby if you have bags to drop off. If you are a priority customer, the touchless priority lines will enable you to scan your documents and proceed through check-in without meeting an airline representative for document verification.

Finally, remember that security and customs procedures can be time-consuming, especially for early morning departures. For flights to the US departing before 9 am, a queue system is in place to streamline the flow of passengers. Please follow the signage to join the correct queue for your flight.

Research your travel destination's specific requirements

When travelling to Toronto, it's important to be aware of the specific requirements for your journey and destination. Here are some key considerations to help you prepare for your trip:

Documentation

Make sure you have all the necessary documentation for your trip. This includes a valid passport, visa (if required), and any other relevant identification. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, need a valid Canadian passport when travelling. American-Canadians can use either a valid Canadian or US passport. Permanent residents of Canada require a valid permanent resident card or permanent resident travel document.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Some travellers need an eTA to board their flight to Canada. This includes visa-exempt travellers from certain countries or territories, such as the United Kingdom, Taiwan, and the United Arab Emirates. However, an eTA is not required if entering Canada by land or sea.

Customs and Immigration Declaration

If you're arriving by air, you can save time by submitting your customs and immigration declaration online using Advance Declaration up to 72 hours before your arrival in Canada. Alternatively, you can complete a Declaration Card provided on the aircraft or at the airport. This step is mandatory for everyone entering Canada.

Check-in Times

Arriving at the airport early is crucial, especially for international flights. For flights departing before 9 am, it is recommended to arrive at Toronto Pearson Airport at least 3 hours in advance to navigate security and customs procedures efficiently.

Baggage

You can check in your baggage as early as 4 hours before your flight's departure to reduce congestion. Each airline may have specific baggage policies, so it's essential to check their guidelines. Remember that once the baggage counter closes, you cannot check in any more bags.

Connections

If you have a connecting flight, ensure you allow adequate time between your first flight's arrival and your next flight's departure. This buffer is crucial for security checks and navigating terminal changes.

By researching and understanding the specific requirements for your travel to Toronto, you can ensure a smoother journey and avoid potential delays or issues.

Frequently asked questions