Thornhill to YYZ: How Long and Which Highway
Last Updated: August 2026
5 min read
The drive from Thornhill to Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) usually takes 25 to 40 minutes. Highway 407 is the fastest route with light traffic. Highway 401 is free but slower during busy hours.
Below you get real drive times, the highway trade-offs, and how to plan so you never miss a flight. We cover both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.
How long does it take to get from Thornhill to YYZ?
Plan for 25 to 40 minutes from Thornhill to Pearson. The short end is with clear roads. The long end is during rush hour on Highway 401.
The distance is roughly 25 to 30 kilometres, depending on where in Thornhill you start. That is a short trip. Traffic is the only thing that changes it.
Most Thornhill to YYZ trips take 25 to 40 minutes, but traffic can push it past an hour.
Which highway is best: 407 or 401?
Highway 407 is the fastest and most reliable route from Thornhill to Pearson. It is a toll road, so you pay for the speed. Highway 401 is free but jams up fast in the morning and late afternoon.
Here is my honest take. If you have a morning flight, take the 407. The toll is small next to a missed plane. For a midday or late-night trip, the 401 is usually fine and saves you the toll.
A typical route from Thornhill: take the 407 west, then south on Highway 427 to the airport. Or take Highway 400 south to the 401 west. Your driver picks the fastest path on the day.
Route options compared
Each route has a clear trade-off. This table shows what to expect on a normal day.
| Route | Drive time | Toll | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 407 west then 427 south | 25-30 min | Yes | Rush hour, tight schedules |
| 400 south then 401 west | 30-45 min | No | Midday and late night |
| Local roads then 401 | 40-60 min | No | Backup when highways are closed |
When is traffic worst?
The 401 is worst on weekday mornings from 7 to 9 and afternoons from 4 to 7. During those hours, a 30-minute trip can become an hour or more.
Weekends are calmer, but the 401 still slows near the airport interchange. If your flight leaves during rush hour, build in extra time or take the 407.
How much time to leave for your flight
Leave enough time for the drive plus airport lines. Here is a simple plan that works for most Thornhill travellers:
- Domestic flight: leave Thornhill about 2 hours before departure.
- Flight to the United States: leave about 3 hours before, since you clear customs at Pearson.
- International flight: leave about 3 hours before departure.
- Add 30 minutes if you travel during rush hour.
Terminal 1 or Terminal 3: which one?
Pearson has two passenger terminals, T1 and T3. Check your airline before you go, since the two are far apart and a shuttle ride between them takes time.
Air Canada and most Star Alliance flights use T1. Many other carriers use T3. When you book a car, give the terminal so your driver drops you at the right door.
We serve both YYZ Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, so tell us your terminal when you book.
Why a limo beats driving yourself
A car service saves you the airport parking bill and the stress of traffic. You sit back while a driver picks the fastest highway. That matters most on a tight morning schedule.
Our Thornhill airport limo service uses a flat rate. The price includes HST and gratuity, so there are no surprises at the end. Drivers are CPIC certified, which means a police background check.
You can compare vehicle sizes on our fleet page and see the full list on our services.
Which vehicle fits your group
Pick a vehicle by how many people and bags you have. Here is a quick guide:
- Sedan: up to 3 passengers, good for solo trips or a small family.
- SUV: up to 6 passengers, more room for luggage.
- Van: up to 14 passengers, best for large groups.
- Limo: up to 16 passengers, for a special trip or big party.
If you are close to a limit, size up. Bags take space, and a cramped ride to the airport is no fun. When in doubt, ask us and we will help you choose.
How to book your ride
Booking takes a few minutes. Give your pickup address, flight time, and terminal. You get a flat rate up front with tax and tip included.
We run 24/7, so early flights and late arrivals are covered. You can book your airport limo online or call the number below. Learn more about about us before you ride with Toronto Airport Limo.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the drive from Thornhill to Pearson?
Most trips take 25 to 40 minutes. The 407 gives the fastest time. In weekday rush hour on the 401, the drive can run past an hour.
Which highway is fastest from Thornhill to YYZ?
Highway 407 is the fastest and most reliable route. It is a toll road, so you pay a small fee for the speed. The 401 is free but slower in busy hours.
How much does a limo from Thornhill to the airport cost?
We charge a flat rate, so the price is set before you ride. HST and gratuity are included, with no surprise fees. Call or book online for your exact quote.
Does Pearson have more than one terminal?
Yes, Pearson has Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. They are far apart, so check your airline first. Tell us the terminal when you book so your driver drops you at the right door.
