Notice of Intent – North Hardstands Phase 1

Public Comment Period on Intent to Make a Determination

April 28, 2026 – The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) must determine whether the proposed North Hardstands Phase 1 Project located at Toronto Pearson International Airport is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects. To help inform this determination, the GTAA is inviting comments from the public respecting that determination. All comments received will be considered public. For more information, individuals should consult the Privacy Notice on the Registry website.

Written comments must be submitted by May 28, 2026 to:

Greater Toronto Airports Authority

3111 Convair Drive; Toronto AMF, ON; L5P 1B2

Email address: environment@gtaa.com

 

Proposed Project: North Hardstands Phase 1

As part of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority's (GTAA's) Toronto Pearson Airport Longterm Investment in Facilities & Terminals (LIFT) Program, the North Hardstand and associated infrastructure are proposed to be constructed on the Airfield.

The proposed development will be located airside near the east end of Runway 05-23, southwest of the intersection of Airport Road and Derry Road, on previously developed land with the function to process additional passengers and to serve as aircraft parking. The project will occur in phases, with Phase 1 beginning this year. Future phases are under consideration and, if progressed, will be posted separately. The Phase 1 project scope includes:

• Construction of approximately 200,000 square metres of pavement for aircraft parking and manoeuvring, with a total of 10 aircraft stands.
• 2000 sq m ground service equipment (GSE) support building, a Triturator building, a Blast Fence, snow dump & melting area, and a Non-Passenger Screening – Vehicle structure.
• Installation of high-mast lighting systems
• Provision of hydrant fueling infrastructure
• Development of a new connection to existing Taxiway Juliet
• Implementation of new drainage infrastructure, including a stormwater retention system and oil/water interceptors to manage both quantity and quality of runoff.

Construction activities will involve excavation, clearing and grubbing, utility relocation and removal, site grading, installation of underground services, paving, line marking, lighting installation, and concrete works, along with supporting boarding infrastructure.

Sustainability best practices will be integrated into both the design and construction phases, aligning with the broader Long-Term Investment in Facilities and Terminals (LIFT) Program at Toronto Pearson Airport.

Note: Six of the 10 aircraft stands included in this project are designated for cargo operations and a separate project posting has also been made. Refer to reference number 90411.