Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (BBTCA) has taken a significant step forward in its plans to introduce United States Customs and Border Protection (US CBP) Preclearance by selecting Pomerleau as the construction management firm and Alstef Canada as the baggage handling system provider. The announcement was made at a media event held at the airport earlier today and was attended by executives from BBTCA, Pomerleau, and Alstef Canada.
The implementation of US CBP Preclearance will allow passengers traveling to the United States from BBTCA to clear US customs and immigration before their departure, providing increased efficiency and convenience. It is expected to significantly enhance the passenger experience, expand destination offerings, and stimulate economic growth in the region.
BBTCA President and CEO, RJ Steenstra, expressed excitement about the partnership with Pomerleau and Alstef Canada, recognizing it as a crucial milestone in bringing US Preclearance to the airport by late 2025. He highlighted the airport’s strategic position as the fifth-busiest Canadian airport serving the US and emphasized the transformative impact that Preclearance will have on the airport’s operations and the city of Toronto.
Neil Pakey, President and CEO of Nieuport Aviation, the owner and operator of the passenger terminal at BBTCA, emphasized the potential economic benefits of US Preclearance, citing research indicating that it could generate $5.3 billion in economic output through increased aviation activity. He also noted the alignment of Preclearance with the airport’s commitment to enhancing the passenger experience and its role as the gateway to Toronto for an increasing number of visitors.
Sean Smithson, Toronto Regional Vice President at Pomerleau, expressed the company’s pride in being selected for the project and its partnership with Alstef Canada. He stated that Pomerleau and Alstef Canada are well-positioned to deliver a best-in-class facility that will meet the demands of increased passenger traffic and enhance the overall airport experience.
Steven Tanguy, Managing Director at Alstef Canada, highlighted the company’s expertise in baggage handling systems and its commitment to ensuring seamless integration of US CBP Preclearance processing. Alstef Canada has successfully completed over 50 baggage handling projects across Canada, demonstrating its ability to deliver complex infrastructure solutions in operational airports.
The introduction of US CBP Preclearance at BBTCA is expected to have a transformative impact on the airport, the city of Toronto, and the surrounding region. It will provide increased efficiency for travelers, stimulate tourism and business activities, boost employment, and strengthen the economic ties between Canada and the United States.
