United Airlines Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 Guide (2026)
United Airlines Terminal & Check-in at Pearson
United Airlines operates exclusively out of Terminal 1 at Toronto Pearson (YYZ). If you are heading to the U.S., go directly to Aisle 12 on the Departures Level (Level 3) for check-in and bag drop.
Important Alert: Pearson LIFT Construction
The $3-billion Pearson LIFT Project officially broke ground on May 11, 2026. This means Terminal 1 is currently undergoing major upgrades to its airfield and baggage systems.
What to expect: You might see temporary walls or diversions near Aisle 12 as they modernize the baggage carousels.
Pro-Tip: Because of these layout changes and increased security checks, arrive at least 3 hours early. Don’t risk missing the 60-minute baggage cutoff!
Table of Contents
2026 Travel Alert: The Pearson LIFT Project Impact
Toronto Pearson has officially launched the $3-billion Pearson LIFT Project (May 11, 2026). This decade-long modernization program is currently affecting airfield and baggage systems in Terminal 1, requiring all United Airlines passengers to plan for potential layout changes.
Current Impacts for United Passengers
Baggage System Modernization: Over 30 kilometers of new baggage infrastructure is being installed. If you are checking bags at Aisle 12, follow the temporary signage as some carousels may be offline for upgrades.
Airfield Adjustments: New high-speed taxiways are being built to reduce gate delays. While this will eventually make your flight faster, expect some minor taxiing detours upon arrival or departure.
Walking Path Diversions: Inside Terminal 1, look for the bright orange floor decals. These are your “safe zones” to navigate around construction barricades to reach the F-Gates or US Customs.
Pro-Tip: The “3-Hour Rule”
Because this is one of the largest construction projects in Canadian history, do not arrive late. We strongly recommend reaching Terminal 1 at least 3 hours before departure to ensure you clear the modified baggage drop and security paths without stress.
Security & US Customs: The 2026 Fast-Track Guide
Because United Airlines flights from Toronto are “Transborder,” you clear US Customs at Pearson Airport before you board. After check-in at Aisle 12, follow the overhead signs for “F Gates” to reach the security and customs hall.
Your 3-Step Express Path to the Gate
Security Screening: Head to the CATSA checkpoint located right next to the United check-in area. Ensure your liquids are in a clear bag to speed up the process.
US Customs (USCBP): As of May 2026, the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) App is the fastest way to clear customs. Submit your details on the app before entering the hall to access a dedicated, shorter line.
The F-Gate Walk: After customs, it is a 10-15 minute walk to your boarding gate. United typically uses gates ranging from F32 to F65.
15, 2026 Update: Pearson LIFT Impact
The newly launched Pearson LIFT Project (groundbreaking was May 11, 2026) has introduced temporary changes to the Terminal 1 layout:
New Signage: Follow the high-visibility orange floor decals that lead directly to the US Customs hall. These bypass areas currently under airfield modernization.
Wait Time Alert: While the current wait time for US Customs is roughly 21–25 minutes, construction-related diversions can add an extra 10 minutes to your walk.
Pro-Tip: If you see a long line at the main F-Gate security, check the Pearson Wait Time Dashboard on your phone; sometimes a secondary checkpoint is open and much faster.
Terminal 1 Amenities: Lounges, Dining & Transit
United Airlines passengers can enjoy premium amenities within the F-Gate Concourse (Terminal 1). The most convenient spot for Star Alliance travelers is the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge, located on Level 4 near Gate F61.
Where to Relax & Recharge
Premium Lounges: If you have Star Alliance Gold status or a United Club pass, the Maple Leaf Lounge (US Transborder) is your best bet. It features dedicated workspaces and a fresh hot-buffet menu.
High-Speed Tech: As of May 2026, Pearson has fully rolled out Wi-Fi 6E in the F-pier. For the best signal and charging ports, look for the “Power Poles” located between Gates F53 and F57.
Dining near United Gates: If you’re in a rush, Avenue B and Mill Street Brewery are located right in the heart of the United boarding area for a quick meal before departure.
The “Pearson LIFT” Connection Alert
Because of the May 2026 airfield modernization (LIFT Project), please keep the following transit tips in mind:
Travelator Maintenance: Some moving walkways near the far end of the pier are currently being serviced. If your flight is departing from Gate F69, allow an extra 5–7 minutes for walking.
Connecting from Terminal 3: If you are arriving from an international flight at Terminal 3, take the Terminal Link Train. It’s free, runs every 4 minutes, and will drop you at the Terminal 1 station, just a short walk from United’s check-in at Aisle 12.
Pro-Tip: If you have a long layover, the Terminal 1 “Quiet Zone” near Gate F33 is the best place to escape the construction noise and rest comfortably.
, Ground Level (Arrivals), near Pillars P1 to P5.
Terminal Navigation: Transferring from Terminal 3 to Terminal 1
If your journey brings you to Terminal 3 but you are flying out on United Airlines, you must transfer to Terminal 1. The fastest and easiest way to do this is by taking the free Terminal Link Train, which connects the terminals in just 2 to 8 minutes.
How to Use the Terminal Link Train (Step-by-Step)
Locate the Station: From inside Terminal 3, follow the overhead “Link Train” signs leading to Level 3 of the parking garage.
Frequency and Cost: The train is completely free and runs 24/7. Trains arrive at the platform every 4 minutes during peak airport hours.
The Ride: Board the train and ride it until you reach the Terminal 1 Station stop.
Final Stretch: Once you exit the train at Terminal 1, take the escalators down to Level 3 (Departures Hall) and walk straight over to Aisle 12 for the United Airlines check-in counters.
2026 Transit Alert: Navigating the LIFT Project Detours
While the train itself runs normally, the ongoing Pearson LIFT Project construction has shifted some walking paths inside Terminal 1.
Follow the Orange Path: Look out for the bright orange floor decals right as you exit the train station. These markers provide a clear detour path around the temporary airfield construction walls, leading you straight to the United check-in area.
Add a Buffer: If you are changing terminals, add an extra 10 to 15 minutes to your schedule to easily handle these walking detours.
United Airlines Toronto Pearson Guide: Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating a transborder flight involves matching exact terminal locations with rigid customs and baggage timelines. Below are direct, verified answers to the 10 most common queries for United Airlines travelers at Toronto Pearson (YYZ) in May 2026.
United Airlines operates exclusively out of Terminal 1 at Toronto Pearson International Airport. It does not use Terminal 3 for any arrivals, departures, or codeshare connections.
The United Airlines check-in counters are located at Aisle 12 on Level 3 (Departures Level) inside Terminal 1. Both self-service kiosks and full-service agent desks are positioned in this aisle.
You must arrive at least 3 hours before departure. This 3-hour buffer is critical due to the $3-billion Pearson LIFT Project construction starting in May 2026, which causes temporary walking and baggage line diversions inside Terminal 1.
United Airlines enforces a strict 60-minute baggage check-in cut-off before the scheduled flight departure time at YYZ. If your bag is not tagged and processed at Aisle 12 exactly one hour before takeoff, it will not be accepted.
You will clear US Customs at Toronto Pearson Airport before boarding your flight. Because YYZ is a US Preclearance airport, you will go through US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) inside Terminal 1 right after clearing security.
You can skip the main queue by using the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) App. Simply download the app, submit your passport information digitally before entering the customs hall, and enter the dedicated, much faster MPC lane.
If you are flying out of Ontario International Airport (ONT) in Southern California, United uses Terminal 2. However, if you are looking for Ontario's main Canadian hub—Toronto Pearson (YYZ)—United is strictly in Terminal 1.
United Airlines does not operate a standalone United Club at YYZ. Instead, eligible United premium passengers and Star Alliance Gold members have access to the Air Canada Transborder Maple Leaf Lounge, located on Level 4 near Gate F61.
You must take the free Terminal Link Train from Terminal 3 (Level 3 of the parking garage). The train runs 24/7, arrives every 4 minutes, and drops you off at the Terminal 1 station in less than 5 minutes.
Yes, you can check in via the United Airlines mobile app or website 24 hours prior to departure by scanning your Canadian passport. If you have checked luggage, you must still visit the kiosks at Aisle 12 to print your bag tags.