Ask any frequent flyer in Canada to name their favorite airport, and you might expect them to rattle off the big names: Pearson, Vancouver, maybe even Calgary. But tucked away on the edge of downtown Toronto is a smaller, quieter gem that punches far above its weight: Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ).
For business travellers, weekend jetsetters, and those who just prefer to fly stress-free, Billy Bishop offers a travel experience that feels more like a VIP shortcut than a trip through a typical airport. And when it comes to comfort and service, the lounges here might just be the best-kept secret in Canadian aviation.
Here’s why Billy Bishop and its lounges deserve the crown:
1. You Can Walk There From Downtown
Let’s start with the obvious: location. Billy Bishop is literally on an island, but only a 252-meter pedestrian tunnel or a 60-second ferry ride separates you from the heart of Toronto’s financial and entertainment districts. Forget long cab rides, traffic jams, or $50 Ubers to the suburbs—YTZ is right there. We had a flight departing at 12:35 PM from YTZ to Ottawa this morning and we comfortably left our home at 10:30 AM, knowing very well that we will be able to make the flight as well as grab a nice bite in the Aspire Lounge (more on that later).
2. No Chaos. No Fuss. No Massive Crowds.
Billy Bishop feels more like a boutique hotel lobby than an airport. Security is quick. The terminal is calm. Lines are short. There’s no jostling through massive food courts or 40-minute treks between terminals. Everything is efficient, quiet, and streamlined—a rarity in modern air travel. The atmosphere is relaxed, almost serene. It’s the kind of airport where the journey is actually enjoyable. On arrival at the airport, even on a busy travel weekend such as the Easter Weekend, we were greeted with no queues for security and literally zoomed past the CATSA checkpoint in under 10 minutes (without having to stand in queue).
3. Best Airport Lounge in the Country? For sure!
Let’s talk lounges—because this is where Billy Bishop truly shines.
Aspire is very well known for its lounges all over the world. But the Aspire Air Canada Cafe at the Billy Bishop Airport is arguably the best airport lounge in Canada!
I’ve written in the past about my review of the Aspire lounge at the Billy Bishop Airport, and I must say that my current experience far exceeded my expectations. As usual, the lounge offers:
- Comfortable seating with power outlets everywhere
- Complimentary premium snacks and beverages, including espresso drinks and alcohol
- Cozy design that feels more like a Scandinavian living room than a sterile waiting area
- Super fast Wi-Fi and ample workspaces
4. Sustainability and Innovation
Billy Bishop has made big strides in sustainable operations—from electric shuttle buses to green-certified terminal infrastructure. It consistently ranks among the cleanest and most eco-conscious airports in North America.
5. It Feels Like Travel Used to Feel
In a world where air travel has become a grind, Billy Bishop offers something rare: a return to dignified, human-centered travel.
There’s no cattle call. No gate chaos. No overpriced fast food. Instead, there’s free coffee, quiet boarding, friendly staff, and a sense that your time—and your mood—actually matter.
Final Thoughts
Billy Bishop is definitely not the the biggest airport in Canada. But when it comes to the things I truly care about—speed, comfort, convenience, and an elevated experience—it stands in a league of its own. Pair that with the Aspire lounge and hospitality, and you’ve got what might just be the best airport + lounge combo in the country.
The Points Guru by Ameya 
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