Toronto Pearson launches two pilot programmes for AI innovation and start-ups

Toronto Pearson (YYZ) is launching two six-month pilot programmes to broaden its pool of suppliers beyond traditional aviation technology companies, said Brian Tossan, the airport’s chief technology officer and interim chief infrastructure officer.

“Canada and Toronto are hotbeds for startup talent and artificial intelligence, and many of these companies are right in our back yard. We want to expand our roster of suppliers to bring in cutting-edge technologies and foster cross-sectoral innovation. This will accelerate digitalisation at Canada’s busiest airport,” Tossan said.

The DMZ pilot initiative aims to help Toronto Pearson engage with emerging startups. The airport plans to leverage advanced technologies not typically used in aviation to support capacity growth, drive operational efficiencies, enhance passenger experience, gather real-time information, boost non-aeronautical revenue, and improve how travellers and employees interact with GTAA amenities. Sherif El Tawil, DMZ’s senior director of programs and global operations, will work on site as an expert in residence, connecting the airport with startups offering innovative products and solutions.

“Toronto Pearson is setting the bar for how major operators can tap into startup innovation to solve real challenges. The mobility and aviation sector needs fresh thinking and there’s no better place to find breakthrough solutions than with the entrepreneurs building them in our own backyard,” said Abdullah Snobar, executive director of DMZ and CEO of DMZ Ventures. “We’re excited to help Toronto Pearson discover solutions that can make a tangible difference for millions of passengers while showing what’s possible when you give startups a seat at the table.”

The Creative Destruction Lab pilot focuses on artificial intelligence solutions that can improve Toronto Pearson’s efficiency and resilience in areas such as baggage handling, gate management and integrated command centres. The airport will participate in CDL’s Putting AI to Work programme, which aims to accelerate implementation and create measurable business impact. It helps large organisations select, deploy and scale AI solutions targeting a 20 per cent productivity improvement through cost savings, output gains or enhanced service quality within two years.

“Airports are complex systems where every decision affects capacity, efficiency and the overall experience,” said Sonia Sennik, CEO of Creative Destruction Lab. “Through CDL’s Putting AI to Work programme, we’re helping Toronto Pearson apply artificial intelligence to enhance operational resiliency and accelerate digital transformation. Our structured approach supports leadership teams in selecting and scaling AI solutions that deliver measurable productivity gains within two years.”

Toronto Pearson will formally announce the pilot programmes on Monday evening at an AI event at MaRS Discovery District during the 2025 ACI-NA and ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition. Canadian startups can find more information about the DMZ pilot initiative and how to apply at dmz.to/Toronto-Pearson.

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