Nieuport Aviation welcomes US preclearance to Billy Bishop Airport

‍Toronto, ON (June 30, 2023) – Nieuport Aviation is excited to confirm that U.S. preclearance operations will be coming to Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ) beginning in 2025. The news came as part of a funding announcement in Toronto at YTZ by Honourable Omar Alghabra, Minister of Transportation, Government of Canada and PortsToronto. In addition to serving as an efficient, streamlined way for passengers to clear US customs and immigration prior to departure–preclearance opens the door to even more direct flights from YTZ to the continental United States.

 "Preclearance at Billy Bishop Airport will contribute immensely to the convenience and seamless experiences that passengers expect.  It is a great day for Toronto – a day that would not have been possible without the support for so many airport and community stakeholders," said Neil Pakey, CEO, Nieuport Aviation. “Today, YTZ provides connectivity to 4 U.S. destinations but with preclearance, travellers could see that number reach 15 or more. The benefits and impact of enhanced connectivity will be felt here in Toronto and in regions like Northern Ontario, which are keen to deepen their connections with critical markets in the United States.”

 “PortsToronto and its partners, including Nieuport Aviation and Porter Airlines, have been working towards securing preclearance for nearly a decade, as it will further enhance the passenger experience by offering passengers the ability to clear customs on home soil using next-generation technology intended to make the process quick and convenient,” said RJ Steenstra, President & CEO, PortsToronto. “Preclearance will also provide access to more US markets which will boost connectivity and bilateral trade and tourism between Toronto and the eastern US. This will have a tremendous economic impact on the city in terms of GDP, jobs and attracting talent. We are incredibly pleased and proud to confirm preclearance at the airport, and look forward to working with our partners to commence work immediately to have the facility open in 2025.”

Preclearance cements YTZ’s significant role in growing Toronto’s and Ontario’s economies, while deepening the extensive social, cultural, and economic ties between Canada and the United States. Preclearance is the next step in Billy Bishop Airport’s evolution as a vital transportation connection for Canadians, offering a convenient, easy-to-access gateway to American cities and markets for those in Northern Ontario to Canada’s eastern regions.

 “We are proud to be part of the successful public private partnership at Billy Bishop Airport that will see important aviation capacity built and more choice for passengers looking to connect easily and efficiently in to and out of the United States,” noted Jennifer Quinn, Chief Strategy and Development Officer.  “As the terminal operator, we look forward to working with partners – including PortsToronto, the City of Toronto, and Government of Canada – to open up new possibilities and opportunities that travellers can count on.”

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