The federal government is considering a massive Toronto Island Airport expansion that could quadruple passenger traffic and bring fuel-hungry and polluting commercial jets to Toronto’s downtown core—including some of the city’s most densely populated waterfront neighbourhoods.
It’s a horrible idea. Here’s what you need to know.
Air Pollution: A Serious Health Concern
The Toronto Island Airport already is responsible for 10 to 15 per cent of air pollution in nearby neighbourhoods. These pollutants include nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and ultrafine particles, which are linked to respiratory and cardiovascular illness, and in some cases, pregnancy-related complications and cancer.
Expanding the airport to accommodate jets would mean more flights, more ground traffic, and more overall air pollution—more health harm.
About 450,000 people live within five kilometres of the Island Airport, with the closest homes just 200 metres away. A recent European study found that people living within five kilometres of airports faced diabetes and dementia risks roughly 20 per cent higher and high blood pressure risks roughly seven per cent higher than those living farther away. In Toronto, that means people from Roncesvalles, to the Annex, to South Riverdale would all be impacted.
Noise Pollution: More Than Just Annoyance
Noise is another major concern. The World Health Organization identifies airport noise as a significant health hazard. Airport noise already exceeds some health guidelines in parts of the community near the Toronto Island Airport, and residents in nearby condominium towers are especially affected. There are links between aircraft noise and cardiovascular disease, and research on children has documented hyperactivity and inattention disorders as well as reading comprehension and memory deficits related to aircraft noise.
Water Pollution: Risks to Lake Ontario
Water quality in Lake Ontario is also at risk. Toronto Public Health has raised concerns that airport operations and expansion could lead to de-icing chemicals entering the lake and potential fuel spills. Additionally, extending the runway would reduce the flow of water into and out of the inner harbour, degrading water quality and potentially turning the harbour into a stagnant mess.
TLDR? Turning the Toronto Island Airport into a jet airport would increase air, noise and water pollution. It’s a terrible idea, and Toronto MPs need to step up and say ‘no’ to commercial jets.
