How to Get to Toronto Island Airport from Union Station [2025-2026 Guide]

Posted on by John Mathew

How to Get to Toronto Island Airport from Union Station [2025–2026 Guide]

Learn how to get from Union Station to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) in 2025–2026 by shuttle, walking, TTC, taxi, or ferry. Step-by-step travel guide with time and cost.

If you’re traveling to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)—commonly called Toronto Island Airport—from Union Station, you’re in luck. It’s one of the shortest and most convenient airport transfers in any major city.

Located on Toronto Islands, just off the waterfront, Billy Bishop serves many domestic and U.S. destinations. From Union Station, you can reach the airport in under 20 minutes, with several travel options depending on your preference.

Here’s your 2025–2026 step-by-step guide.

🚌 Option 1: Free Shuttle Bus (Easiest & Most Popular)

Porter Airlines and Billy Bishop Airport operate a free shuttle service between Union Station and the airport.

  • The shuttle departs every 15 minutes from the west side of the Fairmont Royal York Hotel (across from Union Station).

  • It drops you off right at the airport’s mainland terminal.

  • From there, you can either take the pedestrian tunnel or the short ferry ride to the terminal.

  • Time: 15 minutes (traffic dependent)

  • Cost: Free
    👉 Best for travelers with luggage who want a direct and free ride.

🚶 Option 2: Walk to the Airport Tunnel (Scenic Route)

If the weather is nice and you’re packing light, you can walk from Union Station to the airport.

  • Exit Union Station south onto Bay Street.

  • Walk south toward the waterfront.

  • Continue west along Queens Quay until you reach the airport entrance at Bathurst Street.

  • Use the underground pedestrian tunnel to reach the terminal.

  • Time: ~25 minutes walking (2 km / 1.2 miles)

  • Cost: Free
    👉 Best for travelers who want a scenic downtown waterfront walk.

🚇 Option 3: TTC Streetcar or Bus

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) offers cheap and efficient options.

  1. From Union Station, take the 509 Harbourfront or 510 Spadina streetcar westbound.

  2. Get off at Bathurst Street stop.

  3. Walk south down Bathurst to the airport entrance.

  • Time: 15–20 minutes

  • Cost: $3.35 CAD (PRESTO)
    👉 Best for budget-conscious travelers or those with PRESTO cards.

🚖 Option 4: Taxi or Rideshare (Fastest & Most Comfortable)

If you’re in a rush or carrying heavy bags, a taxi, Uber, or Lyft is the fastest way.

  • From Union Station, it’s a quick drive via Bremner Boulevard and Bathurst Street.

  • Taxis and rideshares drop you off at the airport mainland terminal entrance.

  • Time: 5–10 minutes (traffic dependent)

  • Cost: $10–20 CAD
    👉 Best for door-to-door convenience.

⛴️ Option 5: The Short Airport Ferry Ride

Although most travelers now use the pedestrian tunnel, the ferry is still available.

  • The ferry runs every 15 minutes and takes just 90 seconds to cross.

  • The cost is included in your airline ticket or free for pedestrians.

  • Vehicle ferry requires a fee if you’re driving.

  • Time: 1–2 minutes (plus waiting)

  • Cost: Free for passengers
    👉 Best for those who want the classic Toronto Island experience.

♿ Accessibility Notes

  • The shuttle bus, airport ferry, and pedestrian tunnel are all wheelchair accessible.

  • Union Station and the TTC system are fully accessible with elevators and ramps.

✅ Travel Summary Table

Option Time Cost Best For
🚌 Free Shuttle ~15 mins Free Easy, luggage-friendly
🚶 Walk ~25 mins Free Scenic, light travelers
🚇 TTC Streetcar (509/510) 15–20 mins $3.35 CAD Budget-friendly
🚖 Taxi / Uber / Lyft 5–10 mins $10–20 CAD Fastest & convenient
⛴️ Ferry 1–2 mins (crossing) Free Classic island experience

❓ FAQs: How to Get to Toronto Island Airport from Union Station

1. How far is Toronto Island Airport from Union Station?
It’s about 2 km (1.2 miles) southwest of Union Station.

2. What is the fastest way to get from Union Station to Billy Bishop Airport?
A taxi or rideshare takes about 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic.

3. Is there a free shuttle to the airport from Union Station?
Yes, the Billy Bishop Shuttle Bus runs every 15 minutes and is free.

4. How much is TTC fare to the airport in 2025–2026?
A single adult fare is $3.35 CAD using PRESTO or cash.

5. Can I walk to Toronto Island Airport from Union Station?
Yes, it’s about a 25-minute walk via Bay Street and Queens Quay.

6. Do I still need to take a ferry to the airport?
No, you can now use the pedestrian tunnel, but the ferry is still available and free for passengers.

7. Is the airport accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the shuttle, ferry, tunnel, and terminal are fully accessible.

8. Can I park at Billy Bishop Airport?
Yes, there is paid parking available near the terminal.

✅ With this guide, you now know all the best ways to get from Union Station to Billy Bishop Toronto Island Airport (YTZ) in 2025–2026—whether you want free shuttle convenience, scenic walking, or a quick taxi ride.

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