Is a 2 hr layover in Toronto long enough?
YYZ · Lester B Pearson International · Toronto, Canada
Probably Enough
Solid buffer for any connection type, including international arrival into US Preclearance departure.
Quick Stats
3
25m
20m
Air Canada
Minimum Connection Times
45min
✓60min
✓90min
✓75min
✓AD PLACEMENT — CONTEXTUAL
Tips for 2 hr Connections
If your connection involves a US-bound flight, budget extra time for Canadian exit formalities plus full US Preclearance, which functions like a mini US border crossing.
International arrivals must clear Canadian customs and immigration before reaching connecting gates, even if just transiting.
Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 are linked only by the Link Train, so factor in walk time to the train platform on both ends.
Air Canada's own connections are usually well-signed with dedicated transfer desks, especially useful if you need rebooking.
Avoid tight connections during the 6-9am and 4-8pm banks, when both security and Preclearance lines peak.
Busyness — Connection Risk
12a6a12p6p12a
Low risk
Moderate
High risk
Tight connections are safer outside peak hours. Morning rush (6–9a), midday (11a–2p), and evening (4–8p) are highest risk.
Getting Between Concourses
The Link Train, an automated people mover, connects Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 in about 8-10 minutes of ride time, but factoring in walking to and from platforms and waiting, allow 20-25 minutes between the farthest gates. Passengers connecting from an international arrival onto a US-bound flight must clear Canadian customs/immigration and then US Preclearance (full US CBP screening) before reaching the departure gate, which is the single biggest time sink in the building.
Is 2 hours enough for a layover at YYZ?
Solid buffer for any connection type, including international arrival into US Preclearance departure.
Other Layover Durations at YYZ
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