Why Toronto Pearson Airport Shut Down? What We Know

Toronto Pearson International Airport’s Terminal 1 was abruptly closed on Thursday morning following unconfirmed reports of a possible shooting. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) confirmed a “police investigation” was underway, urging the public to avoid roads near Terminal 1 Departures. The incident caused significant travel disruptions, with heavy traffic and heightened security visible across the area.

The OPP announced the closure of roads leading to Terminal 1 on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Authorities did not confirm specifics but advised travelers to steer clear of the zone. Courtney Heels, a reporter with CP24 (a Toronto-based news channel), shared a video showing rows of police cars, armed officers, and stalled traffic. A traveler told Heels, “Dozens of cops arrived with rifles. Everyone was told to stay inside.”

Heels’ footage captured a chaotic scene: police vehicles blocked access points, while stranded passengers waited nervously. Social media posts described loud noises earlier in the morning, sparking panic. Airport staff reportedly guided travelers to secure areas, though official statements from airport officials remained limited.

Terminal 1, one of Pearson’s two main terminals, handles major airlines like Air Canada and WestJet. The shutdown led to delayed or diverted flights, though full details were not immediately available. Passengers were advised to check flight statuses online or contact airlines directly. Long lines formed outside the terminal as security checks intensified.

Pearson Airport, Canada’s busiest, serves over 50 million passengers annually. While rare, past security scares include a 2020 bomb threat and a 2017 terminal evacuation due to a suspicious package. Thursday’s incident marks the first major shutdown linked to potential violence in recent years.