Is a 1¼ hr layover in Toronto long enough?
YYZ · Lester B Pearson International · Toronto, Canada
Probably Enough
Covers the international-international MCT and gives reasonable buffer for the Link Train transfer.
Quick Stats
3
25m
20m
Air Canada
Minimum Connection Times
45min
✓60min
✓90min
✗75min
tightAD PLACEMENT — CONTEXTUAL
Tips for 1¼ 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 1 hour 15 min enough for a layover at YYZ?
Covers the international-international MCT and gives reasonable buffer for the Link Train transfer.
Other Layover Durations at YYZ
AD PLACEMENT — BEFORE FOOTER