Earlier this week, UrbanToronto toured the facilities of the new Union Pearson Express service, previewing the Metrolinx airport rail link set to enter service on June 6th. We began with a tour of the Union Station platform, followed by a ride on the train to the airport. Our coverage concludes with a tour of the UPX station at Terminal 1 of Toronto Pearson International Airport, which is projected to welcome upwards of 1.5 million passengers in its inaugural year.

The station, located 150 metres from Terminal 1's main building, will be connected to the airport via a moving walkway, providing passengers with a convenient connection between downtown Toronto and Canada's largest airport.

    The UP Express arrives at Terminal 1, image by Craig White

Like the platform at Union Station, the T1 platform—designed by MMM Group Limited—features level entry and platform screen doors, which serve to maintain a comfortable, climate controlled interior year-round. The level entry, meanwhile, ensures that the train is fully accessible, and that boarding with luggage or a stroller is hassle-free.

        A closer look at the wood veneer and Y columns, image by Jack Landau

Stylistically, there is a sense of cohesion between the T1 platform and its counterpart at Union Station. Though designed by different architects (the Union platform was designed by Zeidler) to fit very different spaces, elements of stylistic continuity are maintained throughout the project. The bright wood veneer and Y columns are common to both stations, as is the abundant natural light and sense of openness.

    The PRESTO machine, image by Craig White

Both stations feature touch-screen ticket machines, while the T1 platform is also equipped with a full Presto machine (above), as well as the smaller Presto card readers.

Pulling into the station, image by Marcus Mitanis

At the north end of the station, floor-to-ceiling windows present a panoramic view of the airport area, while the south end will connect to fast-moving walkways and Terminal 1 (below, with gate closed for the moment). Unlike the platform at Union Station, there is no space for retail or a lounge, though these amenities—and many more—can be found in plentiful supply throughout the airport.

Looking towards Terminal 1, image by Jack Landau

We will return with updates and photos as the Union Pearson Express officially enters into service on June 6th. In the meantime, additional information and renderings of the Union Pearson Express can be found in our dataBase file for the project, linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion? Check out the associated Forum thread, or leave a comment in the space provided at the bottom of this page.