Officials from Canada, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ) reaffirmed their commitment to the future U.S. Preclearance facility, supported by a $30 million Canadian investment.
As Open Jaw reported, YTZ announced earlier this year the US CBP Preclearance will be in place in late 2025.
The facility aims to enhance border security and boost both economies.
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is the fifth-busiest Canadian airport serving the United States.
The planned expansion of Preclearance to the airport will allow U.S.-bound travellers to clear U.S. Customs, Immigration, and Agriculture inspection before takeoff.
Travellers then bypass CBP inspections upon U.S. arrival and proceed directly to their connecting flight or destination.
In addition to improving passenger experience, Preclearance will open up more routes to the U.S. from YTZ, potentially increasing the airport's annual economic contribution to $5.3 billion, boosting employment on both sides of the border, and strengthening bilateral trade and tourism between the U.S. and Canada.
Preclearance also allows for a shared approach to security. The process allows both countries to manage the border in a way that addresses shared security concerns, including managing threats early.
For the past year, DHS and CBP, in coordination with Transport Canada and Public Safety Canada, have been monitoring plans for the preparation of future Preclearance facilities at YTZ.
"The Government of Canada is committed to enhancing travel convenience and security for Canadians. That's why we invested $30 million in June 2023 to build a new U.S. preclearance facility at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport," said the Honourable Anita Anand, president of the Treasury Board and Minister of Transport.
"This initiative will not only improve the passenger experience but also foster economic growth, boost tourism and enhance trade and security between our nations."
Preclearance at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport
- The introduction of Preclearance at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport could grow the airport's annual economic contribution from $2.1 billion to $5.3 billion.
- Due to increased aviation activity, Preclearance could generate $215 million in total annual tax revenue, up from $150 million, based primarily on direct on-site activities.
- Preclearance at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport could boost on-site jobs to 3,680, up from 2,080.
- By allowing U.S.-bound travellers to clear U.S. Customs, Immigration, and Agriculture inspection before takeoff, Preclearance will enhance passenger convenience.
- Preclearance will result in increased choice for passengers by opening up to ten more U.S. destinations from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.
- Preclearance at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport was made possible in part by a $30 million capital investment by the Canadian Federal Government.
