This seems pretty symbolic: 11MAR - the 2nd anniversary of the start of COVID as a pandemic - is expected to be the busiest day of this year's March Break travel season at YYZ.
In fact, according to YYZ officials, the date will mark the busiest travel day at the airport since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic two years ago. Approximately 85,000 passengers are predicted to arrive or depart at the airport.
Even in 'normal' years, March Break is a travel version of a feeding frenzy. This year, out-of-practice travellers, and extra and sometimes confusing protocols, will pile the stress on top of the 'normal' heavy crowds.
That has airport officials warning pax how to prep for the airport part of their vacations. YYZ reminds passengers:
Some government health measures still remain in place and will make for a travel experience that differs greatly from pre-pandemic times.
For the March Break period, extra delays and longer wait times are to be expected.
The airport says it is working closely with airlines and government agencies to find "every efficiency possible," but passengers should be aware that coming out of the pandemic, all companies and government agencies operating at the airport sometimes face staffing challenges similar to those in other service sectors.
YYZ asks that passengers "pack their patience" and be kind to the workers who are committed to a safe, secure and healthy experience for every traveller. "The entire airport community is working together to ensure that passenger and employee health and safety remain our shared top priority," the airport said.
Departing Passengers: Arrive 3 Hours Before International Flights
Passengers should give themselves even more time when arriving for their flight. In addition to process changes, passengers may experience longer wait times during check-in, security and boarding their aircraft as there are still additional screening questions and health checks in place at Canada's airports.
YYZ advises passengers to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes in advance of domestic flights and at least three hours in advance of international flights.
In one innovation that may help keep things smooth, at select airport restaurants, travellers can order food ahead of time for pick up with Uber Eats to skip the line.
Arriving Passengers: Must Still Use ArriveCAN App
Passengers arriving from international destinations will experience additional screening and health checks, which may result in delays.
YYZ notes that passengers should be prepared for an arrivals process that may take significantly longer than it did pre-pandemic depending on their "specific set of circumstances." When going through customs, passengers will be required to answer additional health questions.
In order to expedite their arrivals experience, YYZ encourages international passengers to use the Advanced CBSA Declaration feature within ArriveCAN online to fill in their customs and immigration declaration up to 72 hours in advance of flying in to Canada.
Finally, all fully vaccinated travellers eligible to enter Canada must provide a valid pre-arrival COVID-19 antigen test result taken no more than one day before their flight's scheduled departure or a molecular test result taken no more than 72 hours before their flight's scheduled departure.
Other Notes: Masks Still Required, Testing Services Available at Airport
YYZ notes that all passengers and airport employees must wear masks at all times, with limited exceptions.
COVID-19 testing services are available at Pearson. The tests, conducted by Switch Health, are available to both departing passengers and members of the community who aren't travelling but need access to testing services. Tests can be booked in advance via Switch Health's booking portal by visiting Switch Health's web site.
Travellers preparing to travel can find more information and tips on YYZ's web site.
