Flights at Toronto’s Pearson airport experienced delays on Tuesday night following an incident involving smoke that led to the evacuation of a tower responsible for managing aircraft traffic at gates and loading zones, according to airport officials.
Toronto Pearson confirmed the evacuation of its “apron management unit tower” in a social media update. Although staff have since returned and operations have resumed, delays are occurring for both incoming and outgoing flights due to an air traffic management protocol that is currently in place.
Passengers were advised by the airport to directly check their flight status with their respective airlines. The airport’s website explains that the unit oversees the efficient and safe movement of aircraft traffic on the airport’s apron area.
NAV Canada spokesperson Gabriel Bourget clarified that the air traffic control tower at Pearson remained operational without any evacuation, ensuring that communication between pilots and air traffic controllers was unaffected. The apron management unit falls under the responsibility of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority, while NAV Canada handles aircraft movement in the air and on runways and taxiways.
Air Canada informed passengers affected by the delays that the situation was classified as a “safety incident” involving the GTAA and its apron management unit. The airline emphasized that the circumstances were beyond their control and that efforts were underway to minimize disruptions and alleviate delays. Air Canada expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to travelers.
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