5 Arriving at Pearson International Airport in Toronto and Getting to Your Destination

When booking your flight, you may want to avoid arriving on a national holiday as most offices and shops, including McMaster University, will be closed. Before the start of your term, these holidays are July 1 (Canada Day) and August 5 (Civic Holiday).

Most of you will be flying into the Pearson International Airport in Toronto, Ontario. Some of you may choose to spend a few days touring Toronto. However, if you are coming straight to Burlington or Hamilton from the airport, Pearson International Airport has a wonderful webpage summarizing your transportation options including:

• Airport shuttles that you can pre-book before you arrive in Canada. Airways Transit can be booked ahead of time through their website. Shuttles are public and make multiple-passenger drop-offs.
• Airport taxis and limousines that you can find at the airport arrival gates. We recommend negotiating with the driver to decide on a flat rate (price) to get to your destination. Please note, airport taxis and limousines tend to be a more expensive option compared to airport shuttles.
• Uber – by downloading the app, you can request a pick-up. After entering your end destination, your estimated fare will appear. You can choose to accept the quoted fare and ride.

Tipping: Canadians often tip for the services of a shuttle, taxi, or rideshare (such as Uber). A 15% tip is a common amount. While tipping is customary, it is still your personal choice as to whether or not you leave a tip. If you are unsatisfied with the service you have received, you are not under an obligation to tip.