Toronto Pearson welcomes Virgin America

TORONTO, March 18 /CNW/ - The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) is delighted to welcome Virgin America to Toronto Pearson. The airline announced today that they will be introducing direct daily service to San Francisco and Los Angeles from Toronto beginning this June. Their new services will offer passengers additional options when flying to the United States, with the potential to attract new visitors to Toronto.

"This is outstanding news for the Greater Toronto Area" explained Lloyd McCoomb, President and CEO of the GTAA. "Today's announcement is exciting because it means even more choices for passengers. Virgin America's decision to add Toronto as their first international destination shows the attractiveness of the Toronto market, and reinforces Toronto Pearson as Canada's gateway to the United States."

"Our airport is well positioned to welcome new routes and new airlines. We are reaping the benefits of our world class facilities, our commitment to cost competitiveness which is reflected in three consecutive years of lower fees and our focus on serving our customers. All of these factors have enabled us to develop new routes and attract new airline carriers such as Virgin America," added Mr. McCoomb.

The GTAA is the non-share, not for profit authority that operates Toronto Pearson. All revenue generated by the GTAA is reinvested back into the airport. In 2009, 30.4 million passengers travelled through Toronto Pearson.

For further information: GTAA Media Office, [phone]