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Introduction

Toronto, the bustling capital of Ontario, is known for its towering skyscrapers, vibrant culture, and expansive diversity. It's also home to one of Canada's busiest airports – Toronto Pearson International Airport. But just how big is this gateway to the Great White North?

A Brief History of Toronto Pearson International Airport

Toronto Pearson International Airport, also known simply as Pearson Airport or Toronto Pearson, has a rich history that contributes to its admirable stature today. Opened in 1939 as Malton Airport, it was renamed in 1984 in honor of Lester B. Pearson, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and the 14th Prime Minister of Canada. Over the decades, Pearson has seen massive growth and development, evolving from a modest airfield into Canada's largest and busiest airport, accommodating countless travelers and serving numerous global destinations.

Size and Location of Pearson Airport

Toronto Pearson International Airport sprawls over vast acres of land, about 1,867 hectares to be precise, more than three times the size of Central Park in New York City! It is located approximately 32 kilometers to the west of Downtown Toronto in the city of Mississauga, near the border of Brampton. Pearson has five runways, which is more than most Canadian airports. Additionally, it operates two passenger terminals — Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, each bearing a unique design and operation.

Terminals of Pearson Airport

Terminal 1 stretches an impressive 6,000,000 square feet, making it amongst the largest volume buildings in the world. It operates domestic, international and transborder flights, and takes pride in its intuitive wayfinding system, diversity of service providers, and comprehensive range of facilities. Conversely, Terminal 3 is smaller in size, but no less important. It's recognized for its sophisticated design and architecture. It supports domestic and international flights, adorning a robust host of services and amenities to cater to passengers' needs.

Capabilities and Functioning

Toronto Pearson handles more than 55 million passengers annually, representing about 30% of total air traffic in Canada. What's more impressive is that it offers services to 67 airlines, with over 1,100 flights daily to more than 180 destinations worldwide. Significantly, Pearson is one of the few airports worldwide with US Border Pre-clearance facilities. This means travellers flying to US destinations go through immigration and customs inspections before boarding, saving valuable time upon arrival in the US.

Not Just an Airport, but a City Within a City

Pearson Airport is not just an aviation hub. It manifests a vibrant ecosystem that employs over 49,000 people, contributing significantly to Toronto's economy. It hosts a wide range of services, including hotels, dining facilities, retail stores, conference centers, and even a pet hotel!

Conclusion

Toronto Pearson International Airport's gargantuan size, paired with its extensive functionality, makes it much more than just a gateway for travelers. It's a power-house, contributing significantly to Toronto's cultural tapestry, economy, and reputation as a global city. Truly, Pearson International Airport is a testament to Toronto's continuous expansion and its standing in the international community.