The Federal Government chose Pickering as the location for a future airport. No other area the size of the GTA has this much land set aside for a secondary airport near existing infrastructure, including 400-series highways, railways, ports and designated employment lands. 

Taking advantage of it could generate billions of dollars in GDP and economic development for Canada. 

The opportunity for smart growth

The Pickering Airport Lands are located within an integrated transportation network, including high capacity roads (e.g., Highways 401, 407, 7 and 2), Metrolinx GO Transit bus and train, rail services (e.g., CNR and CPR railways), as well as deep sea port access in nearby Oshawa. Compared with other potential areas, the development of this project would require less new infrastructure.

Additionally, the development provides the case to invest in additional infrastructure and higher order service that will benefit Pickering residents directly.

Addressing the infrastructure deficit

Jurisdictions across the country understand the need to invest in critical infrastructure from mass transit to transmission lines to roads. However, they’re all competing for support from various levels of government. The development of an airport to serve the broader region could serve as a catalyst to develop much needed infrastructure that would enhance Pickering and Durham Region.  

Once the airport is established the growth in industry around the area will supply a much-needed tax base that can help to fund the necessary infrastructure to help Pickering continue to serve residents and improve their quality of life.

Why now?

A Needs Assessment Study based on 2010 data predicted that an additional airport in the Greater Toronto Area would be needed between 2027 and 2037. While the federal government is currently updating that assessment based on the most up-to-date information, the continued growth of the region and the accompanying demands on Pearson International Airport suggest that the need remains. For an airport to be available in that timeframe, we need to begin the development process now.

Transport Canada initiated an aviation sector analysis to obtain updated aviation demand and capacity data, which was completed in 2020.