Downsview Airport (YZD)

Downsview Airport permanently closed as of April 2024 following 95 years of aviation operations dating from 1929. Originally de Havilland Airfield, it served as RCAF Station Downsview during WWII and later CFB Toronto until 1996. From 1994-2024, Bombardier Aerospace operated the facility as their primary Q400 manufacturing and flight test center, with the final aircraft departing March 23, 2024. The 370-acre site required prior permission and security clearance through Bombardier Emergency Services for all visiting aircraft. No commercial passenger service ever operated - access was restricted to aerospace manufacturing, flight testing, and authorized general aviation with advance coordination. Northcrest Developments now controls the site for redevelopment into North America's largest urban community project, valued at $22 billion over 30 years. The transformation will create 28 million square feet of residential space, 7 million square feet of commercial property, and 74 acres of parks by 2054. Construction begins 2026 with net-zero carbon targets by 2040. For current aviation needs in Toronto area, passengers must use Pearson International (YYZ) for commercial flights, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) for regional services, or Buttonville (YKZ) for general aviation until its closure. The YZD identifier has been repurposed by Northcrest as the new community brand. Historical significance includes testing sites for famous Canadian aircraft including Beaver, Twin Otter, Dash 8, Global Express, and Global 5000. The airport's closure marks the end of Toronto's aerospace manufacturing era at this location.

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