View source for Union Pearson Express

{{Short description|Airport rail link in Ontario, Canada}}
{{Use Canadian English|date=December 2014}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2023}}
{{Infobox rail line
| name                            = Union Pearson Express
| color                           = 
| logo                            = UP Express New Logo (black).svg
| logo_width                      = 
| logo_alt                        = 
| image                           = UPXatMimico.jpg
| image_width                     = 
| image_alt                       = 
| caption                         = A Nippon-Sharyo DMU at [[Mimico GO Station]]
| type                            = [[Airport rail link]]
| status                          = Operational
| locale                          = [[Toronto]] and [[Mississauga]], Ontario
| start                           = 
| end                             = 
| stations                        = 4 (1 under construction)
| routes                          = 
| daily_ridership                 = 12,000 average (2018-2019)<ref name="leeshanok"/>
| ridership2                      = 
| open                            = {{start date and age|df=yes|2015|06|06}}<ref name="Launch announce" />
| close                           = 
| owner                           = [[Metrolinx]]
| operator                        = [[Alstom]]
| character                       = 
| depot                           = 
| stock                           = [[Nippon Sharyo DMU]]
| linelength                      = {{Convert|23.3|km|mi|abbr=on}}
| tracklength                     = 
| tracks                          = 
| gauge                           = {{RailGauge|sg|allk=on}}
| old_gauge                       = 
| minradius                       = 
| racksystem                      = 
| routenumber                     = 
| electrification                 = 
| speed                           = {{convert|145|kph|mph|abbr=on}}
| elevation                       = 
| website                         = [http://www.upexpress.com UPExpress.com]
| map                             = {{UP Express route}}
| map_state                       = collapsed
}}

The '''Union Pearson Express''' ('''UP Express''' or '''UPX''')<ref name="Next round">{{Cite news |title=Metrolinx Unveils Next Wave of Big Move Projects |work=CNW Newswire |date=29 November 2012 |url=http://www.newswire.ca/en/story/1080785/metrolinx-unveils-next-wave-of-big-move-projects |access-date=29 November 2012 |archive-date=2 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121202011230/http://www.newswire.ca/en/story/1080785/metrolinx-unveils-next-wave-of-big-move-projects |url-status=dead }}</ref> is an [[airport rail link]] connecting [[Union Station (Toronto)|Union Station]] in [[Downtown Toronto]] to [[Toronto Pearson International Airport]]. The UP Express began operation on 6 June 2015, in time for the [[2015 Pan American Games]].<ref name="Launch announce">{{cite web |url=http://news.ontario.ca/opo/en/2015/04/union-pearson-express-to-launch-june-6.html |title=Union Pearson Express to Launch June 6 |publisher=[[Government of Ontario]] |access-date=22 April 2015}}</ref><ref name="GTS ARL">{{cite web |url=http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/default.aspx |title=Georgetown South Project |publisher=[[GO Transit]] |access-date=7 August 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110804224001/http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/default.aspx |archive-date=4 August 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/transportation/2015/04/22/union-pearson-express-to-launch-june-6.html/ |title=Union Pearson Express to launch June 6 |date=22 April 2015 |newspaper=[[Toronto Star]] |access-date=22 April 2015}}</ref> The UP Express travels between Union and Pearson in 25 minutes<ref>{{cite web |title=UP Express Information |publisher=UP Express |location=Toronto |url=http://upexpress.com/en/information/information.aspx |date=28 October 2013 |access-date=30 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121203035829/http://www.upexpress.com/en/information/information.aspx |archive-date=3 December 2012}}</ref> departing every 15 minutes, seven days a week.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 February 2023 |title=15-Minute service returning to UP Express following service disruptions |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2023/02/20/15-minute-service-returning-to-up-express-following-service-disruptions.html |access-date=27 February 2023 |website=thestar.com |language=en}}</ref> At the launch announcement, it was stated that the UP Express was projected to carry 2.35{{nbsp}}million passengers annually and eliminate approximately 1.2{{nbsp}}million car trips in the first year.<ref name="Launch announce" /> As of 2019, it carried 4.5 million passengers annually.<ref name="leeshanok">{{Cite news |last=Lee-Shanok |first=Philip |date=28 September 2019 |title=From premium service to commuter 'milk run': Is the UP Express rolling in the right direction? |work=[[CBC News]] |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/from-premium-service-to-commuter-milk-run-is-the-up-express-rolling-in-the-right-direction-1.5301127 |access-date=26 October 2023}}</ref>

UP Express is operated as an independent division of [[Metrolinx]], similarly to [[GO Transit]]. An airport rail link was one of the priority projects identified in Metrolinx's regional transportation plan, ''[[The Big Move]]''.<ref name="Big Move 1">{{cite web |title=The Big Move |publisher=Metrolinx |year=2008 |url=http://www.metrolinx.com/thebigmove/index.html |access-date=6 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090227045437/http://www.metrolinx.com/thebigmove/index.html |archive-date=27 February 2009}}</ref> Construction began in 2011 as part of the [[Kitchener line#Georgetown South expansion|Georgetown South Project]], which expanded the rail corridor the UP Express shares with GO Transit and [[Via Rail]].<ref name="GTS ARL" /><ref name="Fact Sheet">{{cite web |title=The Air Rail Link (ARL) - Fact Sheet |publisher=[[Metrolinx]] |url=http://www.metrolinx.com/en/projectsandprograms/airraillink/Air%20Rail%20Link_FACT%20SHEET.pdf |access-date=27 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322145459/http://www.metrolinx.com/en/projectsandprograms/airraillink/Air%20Rail%20Link_FACT%20SHEET.pdf |archive-date=22 March 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref> UP Express uses [[diesel multiple unit]] (DMU) trains that meet [[United States Environmental Protection Agency]] Tier 4 [[United States emission standards|emission standards]]. The [[Kitchener line]] and UP Express will be [[Railway electrification system|electrified]], although no date has been set.<ref name="Misleading">{{cite news |last=Kalinowski |first=Tess |title=Metrolinx ad ruled 'misleading' on electrification |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/transportation/article/1042230--metrolinx-ad-ruled-misleading-on-electrification |access-date=30 August 2011 |newspaper=The Toronto Star |date=19 August 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111219064719/http://www.thestar.com/news/transportation/article/1042230--metrolinx-ad-ruled-misleading-on-electrification |archive-date=19 December 2011 |url-status=live |location=Toronto}}</ref> The UP Express has been criticized for not using electric trains from the outset, and for its initial fare prices that were very high compared with other North American airport–city connections.<ref name="Application">{{cite court |litigants=Clean Train Coalition Inc. v. Metrolinx |vol=380/12 |reporter=2 August 2012 |court=[[Ontario Superior Court of Justice]] |url=http://www.cleantrain.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/2012.08.02-Metrolinx-JR-Stamped.pdf |access-date=11 August 2012}}</ref><ref name="CTC TransTO">{{Cite news |first=Robert |last=Mackenzie |title=Clean Train Coalition seeks judicial review to stop diesel trains along Air-Rail Link |work=Transit Toronto |date=11 August 2012 |url=http://transit.toronto.on.ca/archives/weblog/2012/08/11-clean_trai.shtml |access-date=11 August 2012}}</ref><ref name="fare">{{cite web |url=http://www.blogto.com/city/2014/12/is_torontos_air-rail_link_the_priciest_in_north_america/ |title=Is Toronto's air-rail link the priciest in North America? |work=BlogTO |access-date=4 December 2014}}</ref>

The Union Pearson Express' maximum operating speed is {{convert|145|kph|mph|abbr=on}},<ref name="GTS VolumesSpeeds">{{cite web |url=http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/docs/GTS_Operational_Noise_and_Vibration_Assessment-Appendix_B.pdf |title=Georgetown South Projected Train Volumes and Speeds |publisher=[[GO Transit]] |access-date=24 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029194352/http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/docs/GTS_Operational_Noise_and_Vibration_Assessment-Appendix_B.pdf |archive-date=29 October 2013}}</ref> and its average speed is {{convert|56|kph|mph|abbr=on}}.

==History==

===Early proposals===
Improved transit connections to Pearson Airport had been of interest since the late 1980s. Before pursuing the [[airport rail link]], three formal studies were conducted, in 1989, 1990 and 1991. The last two presented options for either making a connection from the GO Georgetown (later extended and renamed [[Kitchener line|Kitchener]]) train line or the [[Toronto Transit Commission]]'s [[Line 2 Bloor–Danforth|Bloor–Danforth line]] (since renamed "Line 2 Bloor–Danforth").<ref name="EPR">{{cite web |date=30 July 2009 |title=Environmental Project Report – Georgetown South Service Expansion and Union-Pearson Rail Link |publisher=[[Metrolinx]] |location=Toronto |url=http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/docs/finalEPR/Final_EPR.pdf |access-date=7 August 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120407020544/http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/docs/finalEPR/Final_EPR.pdf |archive-date=7 April 2012}}</ref>

===SNC-Lavalin era===
[[File:Qualicum Beach Station 3.jpg|right|thumb|The original ''Blue22'' service proposed by [[SNC-Lavalin]] would have used refurbished [[Budd Rail Diesel Car]]s. Pictured are two cars used by [[Via Rail]].<ref name="TC-SNC Background 2" />]]
[[Transport Canada]] made a request for proposal for an airport rail link in April 2001. In May 2003, the bidding parties were shortlisted to four consortia, who were invited to submit business cases. On 13 November 2003, the Union Pearson AirLink Group, a subsidiary of [[SNC-Lavalin]], was selected to finance, design, construct, operate and maintain an airport rail link.<ref name="TC selects SNC">{{cite press release |title=Transport Minister Announces Winning Proposal for Toronto Air-Rail Link |publisher=[[Transport Canada]] |location=Ottawa |url=http://news.gc.ca/web/article-eng.do?crtr.sj1D=&mthd=advSrch&crtr.mnthndVl=&nid=79449&crtr.dpt1D=&crtr.tp1D=&crtr.lc1D=&crtr.yrStrtVl=&crtr.kw=weston&crtr.dyStrtVl=&crtr.aud1D=&crtr.mnthStrtVl=&crtr.yrndVl=&crtr.dyndVl= |date=13 November 2003 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130101052542/http://news.gc.ca/web/article-eng.do?crtr.sj1D=&mthd=advSrch&crtr.mnthndVl=&nid=79449&crtr.dpt1D=&crtr.tp1D=&crtr.lc1D=&crtr.yrStrtVl=&crtr.kw=weston&crtr.dyStrtVl=&crtr.aud1D=&crtr.mnthStrtVl=&crtr.yrndVl=&crtr.dyndVl= |archive-date=1 January 2013 |url-status=dead |access-date=30 November 2011}}</ref> The service was to be called ''Blue22'', as a trip would take 22 minutes to or from Pearson with a stop at the [[Bloor GO Station]] (within walking distance of the [[Dundas West station|Dundas West]] Toronto Transit Commission station). Trains were to be refurbished [[Budd Rail Diesel Car]]s and were expected to begin running between 2008 and 2010.<ref name="TC-SNC Background 2">{{cite web |url=http://www.westoncommunitycoalition.ca/Nov%202003%20Selection%20of%20SNC%20and%20Backgrounder.pdf |title=Backgrounder 2 – Union Pearson Airlink Group's Blue22 Service |publisher=[[Transport Canada]] |date=13 November 2003 |access-date=8 August 2011 |archive-date=26 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426062916/http://www.westoncommunitycoalition.ca/Nov%202003%20Selection%20of%20SNC%20and%20Backgrounder.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>

[[File:Georgetown GO Train Eastbound.jpg|thumb|A GO Train operating along the Kitchener line. The UP Express project is combined with the Georgetown South Project, which is improving the infrastructure along the line for future GO Train service and the UP Express.<ref name="GTS ARL" />]]
By 2008, there had not been significant progress on the project because of failed consensus in negotiations, regulatory hurdles and community opposition. In June 2008, the Ontario government revised the [[Environmental impact assessment|environmental assessment]] process from a required three-year period to six months, and later that summer it resumed negotiations with Union Pearson AirLink Group on terms for a public-private partnership. Furthermore, the high-speed link received public statements of strong support from [[Premier of Ontario]] [[Dalton McGuinty]], Toronto Mayor [[David Miller (Canadian politician)|David Miller]] and the [[government of Canada|federal government]].<ref name="Fast track">{{cite news |first=Theresa |last=Boyle |title=High-speed rail link to airport on fast track |newspaper=The Toronto Star |location=Toronto |date=5 August 2008 |url=https://www.thestar.com/article/472255 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012090501/http://www.thestar.com/article/472255 |archive-date=12 October 2012 |url-status=live |access-date=1 August 2011}}</ref>

In November 2008, [[Metrolinx]], the Ontario government agency for Greater Toronto and Hamilton transportation, released its regional transportation plan titled ''[[The Big Move]]'', outlining how an airport rail link was part of a strategy to establish multi-directional high-order transit connectivity to the Pearson Airport district, in addition to the [[Mississauga Transitway]], rapid transit corridors along Highways [[Ontario Highway 427|427]] and [[Ontario Highway 407|407]], and light rail transit lines along [[Line 5 Eglinton|Eglinton]] and [[Line 6 Finch West|Finch]] Avenues.<ref name="EPR" /> In December 2008, Metrolinx became the proponent of new EA that would simultaneously assess a combination of both the UP Express and [[GO Transit]]'s [[Kitchener line#Georgetown South expansion|Georgetown South expansion]].<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/December2008/15/c9988.html |title=Metrolinx is new proponent of Georgetown Line |work=CNW Newswire |date=15 December 2008 |access-date=29 April 2010}}</ref> The final Environmental Project Report was released on 30 July 2009.<ref name="EPR" />

===Metrolinx takeover===
After two years of failed negotiations and financing difficulties, the public-private partnership between Ontario and the Union Pearson AirLink Group was called off in July 2010, and Metrolinx was handed responsibility to directly own and operate the service.<ref name="Metrolinx vows">{{Cite news |first=Tess |last=Kalinowski |title=Province vows rapid rail link to Pearson by 2015 Pan Ams |newspaper=The Toronto Star |location=Toronto |date=31 July 2010 |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/transportation/article/842240--province-vows-rapid-rail-link-to-pearson-by-2015-pan-ams |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024200841/http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/transportation/article/842240--province-vows-rapid-rail-link-to-pearson-by-2015-pan-ams |archive-date=24 October 2012 |url-status=live |access-date=8 August 2011}}</ref><ref name="Metrolinx handover">{{Cite news |url=http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/July2010/30/c7540.html/15/c9988.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130101233722/http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/July2010/30/c7540.html/15/c9988.html |archive-date=1 January 2013 |title=Metrolinx to build, own and operate Air Rail Link |work=CNW Newswire |date=30 July 2010 |access-date=8 August 2011}}</ref> Metrolinx established the new operating division that would become Union Pearson Express.<ref name="November2010Pres">{{cite web |title=Air Rail Link Service:Pearson to Union |publisher=[[Metrolinx]] |location=Toronto |url=http://www.metrolinx.com/en/docs/pdf/board_agenda/6-AirRailLinkUpdateFINAL.pdf |date=16 November 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111221091106/http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/project/arl.aspx |archive-date=21 December 2011 |url-status=live |access-date=30 November 2011}}</ref> Until November 2012, when the official name was announced, the name "Air Rail Link" was used as a placeholder name; "UPX" was an occasionally used acronym.<ref name="Next round" />

Metrolinx largely preserved the same project scope as had been approved in the environmental assessment, with the service designed for air travellers rather than for conventional commuters. Changes from SNC Lavalin's former proposal included refinements to take into account synergies with GO Transit.<ref name="November2010Pres" /> Metrolinx engaged Sumitomo Corporation of America to supply Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs) for the line.<ref name="CTCvMetrolinx Decision">{{cite web |title=Clean Train Coalition Inc. v. Metrolinx, 2012 ONSC 6593 |author=Ontario Superior Court |url=http://www.canlii.org/en/on/onscdc/doc/2012/2012onsc6593/2012onsc6593.html |date=21 November 2012 |access-date=3 December 2012}}</ref> Kathy Haley was named the first president of the division in July 2011.<ref name="KeyDates">{{cite web |title=Key Dates |publisher=Union Pearson Express |location=Toronto |url=http://upexpress.com/en/information/information.aspx#keyDates |access-date=3 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121203035829/http://www.upexpress.com/en/information/information.aspx#keyDates |archive-date=3 December 2012}}</ref>

===Construction===
[[File:UPE Union Station construction A.JPG|thumb|Station construction in the [[SkyWalk]] beside Union Station in downtown Toronto.]]
In October 2011, the consortium AirLinx Transit Partners was selected to complete building the UP Express. The consortium was made up of some of Canada's largest construction companies such as [[Aecon]] and Dufferin Construction.<ref name="bidder">{{Cite news |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-s-airport-rail-link-to-be-built-by-consortium-1.1058095 |title=Toronto's airport rail link to be built by consortium |work=CBC News |date=24 October 2011 |access-date=7 December 2011}}</ref> Construction on the spur line and passenger station at Pearson airport began in the spring of 2012, at a cost of $128.6{{nbsp}}million.<ref name="close">{{cite web |url=http://www.infrastructureontario.ca/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=2147488681 |title=Financial Close Reached on Three-Kilometre Air Rail Link "Spur Line" and New Passenger station Project |access-date=19 December 2011 |date=19 December 2011 |publisher=[[Government of Ontario]]}}</ref><ref name="Construction start">{{Cite news |first=Rob |last=Ferguson |title=Construction to start in spring on airport rail link |newspaper=The Toronto Star |location=Toronto |date=19 December 2011 |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1104270--construction-to-start-in-spring-on-airport-rail-link |access-date=7 March 2012}}</ref>  At the time, the entire project was expected to cost $456{{nbsp}}million.<ref name="cost" />

Undertaken as part of the Georgetown South Project, the work consisted of five new road overpasses and two road underpasses, one railway grade separation, one bridge reconstruction and the widening of 15 other bridges, construction or re-construction of four stations, major track and grading construction, signal installations utility relocations, as well as the new {{Convert|3.3|km||adj=on}} elevated spur to and from the airport. The work was conducted while minimizing disruption to existing train operations, local residents and businesses. A new rail tunnel under [[Ontario Highway 401|Highway 401]] was still required at a later date to meet future ridership demands.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/project/default.aspx |title=Georgetown South Project - Project |publisher=[[GO Transit]] |access-date=23 April 2015}}</ref> Construction of tunnels for two tracks began in July 2019 and is expected to be completed in late 2021.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.ontario.ca/mto/en/2019/07/construction-begins-for-highways-401-and-409-go-transit-rail-tunnels.html |title=Construction Begins for Highways 401 and 409 GO Transit Rail Tunnels |date=25 July 2019 |access-date=13 May 2021}}</ref>

===Initial operation===
Service began on 6 June 2015, operated by the Union Pearson Express division of Metrolinx. With an adult one-way fare of $27.50 cash or $19.00 with a [[Presto card]], the service was criticized for being the most expensive airport rail link service in North America.<ref name="fare" /> Amid public concern, fares were drastically reduced on 9 March 2016 to $12.00 cash and $9.00 with a [[Presto card]].<ref name="Kalinowski">{{cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2016/02/23/upx-to-slash-fare-by-more-than-half.html |title=UPX to slash fare by more than half |last1=Kalinowski |first1=Tess |first2=Robert |last2=Benzie |date=23 February 2016 |work=Toronto Star |access-date=23 February 2016}}</ref> The change also introduced GO pricing between Bloor, Weston, and Union stations. President Kathy Haley, who was heading up the project, stepped down on 31 March 2016, in a shakeup of the ranks that resulted in changes to the line's management approach.<ref>{{Cite news |first=Moore |last=Oliver |title=Union Pearson Express head to be removed from role |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |location=Toronto |date=2 March 2016 |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/head-of-struggling-airport-train-to-be-moved-from-role/article29003930/ |access-date=9 May 2016}}</ref>

In 2017, the Discounted Double Fare program was introduced, which offered UP Express and GO Transit customers a discount of $1.50 when transferring to or from the [[Toronto Transit Commission]] (TTC), equal to a 50 percent reduction of the $3.00 TTC cash fare at the time. The arrangement ended in March 2020 when the [[Government of Ontario]] terminated funding for the program.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2020/01/21/go-ttc-discount-fares-to-end-as-province-pulls-the-plug-on-funding.html|title = GO-TTC discount fares to end as Ontario pulls the plug on funding| website=[[Toronto Star]] |date = 21 January 2020}}</ref>

On 20 April 2019, monthly capping of fares was silently discontinued,{{cn|date=July 2022}} resulting in an effective fare increase of 10 to 15 per cent for regular commuters, while single fares did not change. Metrolinx continues to offer a monthly pass for airport employees.

==Service==
[[File:ARL route map.png|thumb|upright=1.5|Map of the Union Pearson Express route]]

Union Pearson Express operates daily between 4:55{{nbsp}}am and 11:00{{nbsp}}pm every 15 minutes, making approximately 68 trips per day.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Union Station {{!}} UP Express |url=https://www.upexpress.com/SchedulesStations/UnionStation |access-date=14 February 2023 |website=www.upexpress.com}}</ref>

===Route===
[[File:GorewayDriveUPTrackway.jpg|thumb|The elevated track structure of the UP Express along [[List of roads in Mississauga#Goreway Drive|Goreway Drive]] in Mississauga]] From Union Station, the UP Express heads northwest along the existing GO Transit [[Kitchener line]]. This {{Convert|22|km|mi|abbr=off|adj=on}} section of track between Bathurst Street and Highway 427 was upgraded as part of GO's Georgetown South Project, which improved infrastructure along the route to accommodate the UP Express, GO Transit, [[Canadian National Railway|Canadian National]], and [[Via Rail]] services.<ref name="GTS ARL" /><ref name="EPR" /> The UP Express makes two intermediate stops at [[Bloor GO Station|Bloor]] and [[Weston GO Station|Weston]] GO stations. Bloor Station was redesigned for better access and connection to GO Transit, and Metrolinx is working towards a future direct connection to the [[Dundas West station|Dundas West subway station]].<ref name="Metrolinx ARL site">{{cite web |url=http://www.metrolinx.com/en/projectsandprograms/airraillink/air_rail_link.aspx |title=Air Rail Link |publisher=[[Metrolinx]] |access-date=7 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120225054620/http://www.metrolinx.com/en/projectsandprograms/airraillink/air_rail_link.aspx |archive-date=25 February 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=GO Transit Bloor GO Station Construction Update |url=http://goweb02.gotransit.com/gts/en/project/bloor_station.aspx |publisher=Go Transit |access-date=9 March 2014}}</ref>

Beyond Highway 427, a newly constructed {{Convert|3.3|km|mi|abbr=on}} rail spur carries the UP Express from the Kitchener line to the airport, forming the longest elevated rail line in Ontario.<ref name="UP Mx Slides 03-2015">{{cite web |title=UP and Coming - UP Express: Operational Readiness Update |publisher=[[Metrolinx]] |location=Toronto |url=http://www.metrolinx.com/en/docs/pdf/board_agenda/20150303/20150303_BoardMtg_UP_Express_Readiness_EN.pdf |date=March 2015 |access-date=4 March 2015}}</ref><ref name="GTS Main">{{cite web |title=Georgetown South Project – Ail Rail Link |publisher=[[GO Transit]] |location=Toronto |url=http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/project/arl.aspx |date=30 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111221091106/http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/project/arl.aspx |archive-date=21 December 2011 |url-status=dead |access-date=30 November 2011}}</ref> The elevated spur to Pearson Airport reaches a maximum height of {{Convert|28|m|ft|abbr=off}}, offering a view of the Downtown Toronto and [[Mississauga City Centre]] skylines.<ref name="UP Mx Slides 03-2015" /><ref name="Press ride">{{cite news |last=Kalinowski |first=Tess |title=UPX offers 'clean' train ride with a view |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/transportation/2015/03/09/upx-offers-clean-train-ride-with-a-view.html |access-date=9 March 2015 |newspaper=The Toronto Star |date=9 March 2015}}</ref> At Pearson, the UP Express arrives at [[Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 station|Terminal 1]], where riders can transfer to the airport's [[Terminal Link]] people mover to connect with [[Toronto Pearson International Airport#Terminal 3|Terminal 3]] and the [[Toronto Pearson Viscount station|Viscount parking garage]].<ref name="November2010Pres" />

===Stations===
[[File:UP Union Station platform.jpg|thumb|right|UP Express platform at Union Station]]
At [[Union Station (Toronto)|Toronto Union Station]], UP Express operates from a dedicated platform in the station's west wing along the [[SkyWalk]]. The platform is fully enclosed and features a waiting area, a guest services desk, café, gift shop, and lounge.<ref name="UP Stations">[http://www.upexpress.com/en/project/stations.aspx Union Pearson Express: The Project - Stations] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023140350/http://www.upexpress.com/en/project/stations.aspx |date=23 October 2013 }}</ref>

At Bloor and Weston stations, UP Express operates from dedicated high-level platforms adjacent to the GO Transit Kitchener line low-level platforms.

{| class="wikitable" align="center" style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto;"
|-
!rowspan="2"|Station name
!colspan="2"|Distance
!rowspan="2"|Connections
|-
!Between stations
!From Pearson
|-
| '''[[Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 station|Pearson]]'''
| {{N/A}}
| {{N/A}}
| {{plainlist|
* {{rint|air}} [[Toronto Pearson International Airport|Pearson]]
* {{rint|mono}} [[Terminal Link]]
}}
|-
|'''[[Weston GO Station|Weston]]'''
|style="text-align:right;"|{{convert|11.1|km|abbr=on}}
|style="text-align:right;"|{{convert|11.1|km|abbr=on}}
| {{plainlist|
* {{rint|gotransit|rail|D}}
* [[Toronto Transit Commission|TTC]] {{rint|toronto|bus}}
}}
|-
|'''[[Bloor GO Station|Bloor]]'''
|style="text-align:right;"|{{convert|6.9|km|abbr=on}}
|style="text-align:right;"|{{convert|18.0|km|abbr=on}}
|{{plainlist|
* {{rint|gotransit|rail|D}}
* {{rint|toronto|subway|2}} (via [[Dundas West station]])
* [[Toronto Transit Commission|TTC]] {{rint|toronto|bus}} {{rint|toronto|streetcar}}
}}
|-
|'''[[Union Station (Toronto)|Union]]'''
|style="text-align:right;"|{{convert|5.3|km|abbr=on}}
|style="text-align:right;"|{{convert|23.3|km|abbr=on}}
| {{plainlist|
* {{rint|ca|via}} {{rint|us|amtrak}}
* {{rint|gotransit|rail|A}} {{rint|gotransit|rail|B|x}} {{rint|gotransit|rail|C|x}} {{rint|gotransit|rail|D|x}} {{rint|gotransit|rail|E|x}} {{rint|gotransit|rail|F|x}}  {{rint|gotransit|rail|G|x}} {{rint|gotransit|bus}}
* {{rint|toronto|subway|1}}
* [[Toronto Transit Commission|TTC]] {{rint|toronto|bus}} {{rint|toronto|streetcar}}
}}
|}

An infill station at [[Mount Dennis station|Mount Dennis]], featuring a connection with the under-construction [[Line 5 Eglinton]], is scheduled to open in 2024.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.insidetoronto.com/news-story/5182247-union-pearson-express-fares-to-be-announced-as-planned-metrolinx-tells-coalition/ |title=Union Pearson Express fares to be announced, as planned, Metrolinx tells coalition |website=Insidetoronto.com |date=4 December 2014 |access-date=12 May 2016}}</ref>

===Rolling stock===
[[File:Union Pearson Express DMU 1010.JPG|thumb|250px|A UP Express train approaches Pearson Station]]
The Union Pearson Express uses [[Nippon Sharyo DMU]] trains. The fleet consists of 18 [[diesel multiple unit]] (DMU) cars, as four three-car and three two-car sets.<ref name="UP Express Vehicles">{{cite web |url=http://upexpress.com/en/project/vehicles.aspx |title=The Vehicles |publisher=Union Pearson Express |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121203062359/http://www.upexpress.com/en/project/vehicles.aspx |archive-date=3 December 2012}}</ref> Initially, on 1 March 2011, Metrolinx announced that it had chosen to buy 12 DMU cars (six two-car trains) from [[Nippon Sharyo]] at a cost of $53{{nbsp}}million, for the service.<ref name="rg">{{cite web |url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/index.php?id=44&no_cache=1&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=12892&cHash=8edad53ca2 |title=Metrolinx orders DMUs to work airport rail link |access-date=1 March 2011 |date=1 March 2011 |work=Railway Gazette |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121001215232/http://www.railwaygazette.com/index.php?id=44&no_cache=1&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=12892&cHash=8edad53ca2 |url-status=dead |archive-date=1 October 2012}}</ref> This was later expanded to 18 DMU cars (adding one car to each train via an option order).{{clarification needed|reason=Last two sentences implies a fleet of six three car trains. Sentence before that says four three car trains plus three two car trains. Cannot both be correct.|date=August 2021}} This brought the cost to {{USD|75}}{{nbsp}}million.<ref name="cost">{{cite web |url=http://www.metrolinx.com/en/projectsandprograms/upexpress/upexpress.aspx |title=The UPE Project |publisher=[[Metrolinx]] |access-date=16 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130122152735/http://www.metrolinx.com/en/projectsandprograms/upexpress/upexpress.aspx |archive-date=22 January 2013}}</ref><ref name="UP Express Vehicles" /> The DMUs were manufactured in [[Japan]], assembled in Nippon Sharyo's facility in [[Rochelle, Illinois]], and towed by rail to Toronto, with the first trainset arriving on 15 August 2014.<ref name="Press ride" /><ref name="RailwayJournal2014-08-15">{{cite news |url=http://www.railjournal.com/index.php/north-america/toronto-airport-express-trains-arrive-in-canada.html?channel=542 |title=Toronto airport express trains arrive in Canada |work=Railway Journal |first=Stephen C. |last=Host |date=15 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140928235614/http://www.railjournal.com/index.php/north-america/toronto-airport-express-trains-arrive-in-canada.html?channel=542 |archive-date=28 September 2014 |url-status=live |access-date=16 August 2014 |quote=THE FIRST two of 18 DMU cars being supplied by Sumitomo to Toronto transport authority Metrolinx for use on the Union Pearson Express (UP Express) airport rail link have arrived in Canada.}}</ref><ref name="UPX_News&Media">{{cite web |url=http://www.upexpress.com/AboutUP/Announcements |access-date=16 February 2016 |title=NEWS AND MEDIA - 2014 August |publisher=Union Pearson Express}}</ref>

[[File:Interior View of Union Pearson Express.jpg|right|thumb|Interior view of a coach]]
The trainsets seat between 115 and 173 people. On-board features include power outlets, [[Wi-Fi]], luggage facilities, and washrooms.<ref name="Metrolinx ARL site" /><ref name="UT rides">{{cite web |url=http://urbantoronto.ca/news/2015/05/urbantoronto-rides-union-pearson-express |title=UrbanToronto Rides the Union Pearson Express |date=26 May 2015 |work=Urban Toronto |access-date=26 May 2015}}</ref>

The UP Express DMUs are based on the design created for the [[Sonoma–Marin Area Rail Transit]] system in California. Powered by a diesel hydraulic drive with a six-speed automatic transmission and regenerative braking, the DMUs are believed to be the first trains in the world that comply with the [[United States Environmental Protection Agency]] Tier 4 [[United States emission standards|emission standards]], which will reduce emissions up to 90%.<ref name="Press ride" /> Braking energy is converted into electricity by the auxiliary power generator, and helps to provide onboard lighting and heating.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www2.sonomamarintrain.org/userfiles/file/Vehicles%20-Draft%20DMU%20Technical%20Specification%201-20-10.pdf |title=SMART Technical Specification for Diesel Multiple Units |date=20 January 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140606215154/http://www2.sonomamarintrain.org/userfiles/file/Vehicles%20-Draft%20DMU%20Technical%20Specification%201-20-10.pdf |archive-date=6 June 2014}}</ref> They also comply with [[Federal Railroad Administration|FRA]] Tier 1 crash energy management features. Modifications for UP Express use include enclosed overhead luggage bins that comply with Transport Canada rules and an enhanced enclosed luggage tower.
===Environmental impact===
The Tier 4 engines produce substantially lower emissions than most other diesel vehicles in Toronto.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/faqs/default.aspx |title=Georgetown South Project FAQ's, 'GO Transit' |access-date=1 September 2012}}</ref> The Environmental Impact Assessment for the UP Express of 2009 was carried out assuming that trains would be Tier 3 standard rather than Tier 4, and showed that at peak frequency the air quality effect of the additional trains would not raise any pollution level above the provincial criterion levels.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/docs/finalEPR/Report-Air_Quality_Assessment.pdf |title=AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT GEORGETOWN SOUTH SERVICE EXPANSION & UNION PEARSON RAIL LINK TORONTO, ONTARIO, RWDI Consulting Engineers & Scientists' |date=July 2009 |access-date=1 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150704015632/http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/docs/finalEPR/Report-Air_Quality_Assessment.pdf |archive-date=4 July 2015}}</ref> The 2010 Metrolinx electrification study, which did assume the use of Tier 4 emissions technologies for diesel propulsion options, found that the Georgetown–UP Express diesel service would contribute on the order of 0.2% to local air pollution, and that electrification would result in only a small improvement to local air quality.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gotransit.com/electrification/en/current_study/Appendix%20Files/Appendix%209.pdf |title=Appendix 9, Multiple Category Evaluation - Findings and Conclusions, Metrolinx |date=December 2010 |access-date=1 September 2012}}</ref> In an additional review of human health assessment in 2011, GO Transit examined the current plan for Tier 4 emission controls on both the UP Express trains and conversion of existing GO locomotives to Tier 4 and found that the human health risks of the diesel UP Express service are negligible, but that current background air quality (from other pollution sources in Toronto) is an issue.<ref name="2011 Additional Human Health Review">{{cite web |url=http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/docs/20110602_HHA_Executive_Summary_EN.pdf |title=Georgetown South Project Additional Review of Human Health Assessment – Executive Summary |publisher=[[GO Transit]] |date=2 June 2011 |access-date=2 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150704033343/http://www.gotransit.com/gts/en/docs/20110602_HHA_Executive_Summary_EN.pdf |archive-date=4 July 2015}}</ref>

===Fares and ridership===
[[File:Terminal1Station.jpg|thumb|The UP Express platform at [[Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 station]]]]
Fares are based on age, origin and destination, and the method of payment (children ages 12 and under can ride UP Express for free year-round). Discounts are available for families, round trips, and airport staff.<ref name="Fares">{{cite web |url=http://www.upexpress.com/en/docs/Union_Pearson_Express_Fare_Fact_Sheet_EN.pdf |title=UP EXPRESS: FARE STRUCTURE AT A GLANCE |publisher=[[Metrolinx]] |access-date=22 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150606082719/https://www.upexpress.com/en/docs/Union_Pearson_Express_Fare_Fact_Sheet_EN.pdf |archive-date=6 June 2015}}</ref> As with other GO Transit lines, integrated train tickets can be purchased through [[Via Rail]] to railway stations across Canada.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.viarail.ca/en/travel-info/transport-services/intermodality/upexpress |title=Union Pearson Express |date=3 November 2014 |website=VIA Rail}}</ref> Upon launch, one-way fares on the UP Express between were $27.50, or $19 with a Presto card. By 19 June 2015, the Union Pearson Express was averaging about 3,250 riders a day, or 12 percent capacity.<ref>{{cite news |last=Yuen |first=Jenny |url=http://www.torontosun.com/2015/07/17/tourists-not-taking-to-union-pearson-express-during-pan-am-games-transit-group |title=Tourists not taking to Union-Pearson Express during Pan Am Games: Transit group |newspaper=Toronto Sun |date=17 July 2015 |access-date=12 May 2016}}</ref> Metrolinx has projected that a year after opening, the service will attract 5,000 riders a day — about 1{{nbsp}}million customers. By 2020, Metrolinx expects about 2.46{{nbsp}}million rides per year will bring it up to full operating cost recovery.<ref name="TorStar-2015-06-24">{{cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/transportation/2015/06/24/union-pearson-express-hits-ridership-targets-but-can-be-tough-to-find-survey-of-riders-finds.html |title=Union Pearson Express hits ridership targets but can be tough to find, survey of riders finds |newspaper=Toronto Star |date=24 June 2015 |access-date=25 June 2015}}</ref>

The UP Express uses an honour-based proof-of-purchase system, in which customers must carry a pre-purchased UPX ticket or tapped-in Presto card, contactless credit or debit card, or mobile wallet while on board the train(s); these fare media must be presented for inspection upon request. Failure to do so can result in a fine.
{| class="wikitable floatright"
|+Annual ridership per fiscal year
!Year
!Passengers
|-
|2016/2017
|2.76 million<ref name="secret"/>
|-
|2017/2018
|3.5 million<ref name="secret"/>
|-
|2018/2019
|4.5 million<ref name="leeshanok"/>
|-
|2021/2022
|0.825 million <ref>{{cite web |title=Operations GO & UP Quarterly Report (Q4 FY 2022/23) |url=https://assets.metrolinx.com/image/upload/v1687464552/Documents/Metrolinx/Item_16.2_-_Operations_GO_UP_En.pdf}}</ref>
|-
|2022/2023
|2.57 million<ref>{{cite web |title=Operations GO & UP Quarterly Report (Q4 FY 2022/23) |url=https://assets.metrolinx.com/image/upload/v1687464552/Documents/Metrolinx/Item_16.2_-_Operations_GO_UP_En.pdf}}</ref>
|}
However, ridership declined in the service's opening months. Ridership in August 2015 was 17 percent lower than in June 2015 and a further 4 percent lower in the first two weeks of September. Ridership ended up averaging 2,300 per day during a four-week period in September 2015, a drop of 29 percent since June. The service needed about 7,000 riders per day to break even on operating costs.<ref name="G&M-2015-09-25">{{cite news |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/metrolinxs-reputation-on-the-line-with-poor-figures-for-pearson-express-train/article26552266/ |title=Metrolinx's reputation on the line with poor figures for Pearson express train |newspaper=Globe and Mail |first=Oliver |last=Moore |date=26 September 2015 |access-date=26 September 2015}}</ref> A report in February 2016 showed a drop in monthly ridership from the summer to 65,593 rides (just over 2,100 per day) in November 2015. This led Metrolinx to start considering price adjustments to boost ridership numbers.<ref name="Ridership drop Star">{{Cite news |title=Ridership has dropped since the Union Pearson Express launched in June, the latest numbers show. |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/transportation/2016/02/05/metrolinx-reconsidering-union-pearson-express-fares-as-ridership-sinks.html |newspaper=The Toronto Star |date=5 February 2016 |access-date=8 February 2016 |issn=0319-0781 |first=Tess |last=Kalinowski}}</ref>

By January 2016, average ridership slumped further to 1,967 passengers per day.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://torontoist.com/2016/10/ridership-is-up-on-torontos-airport-rail-link/ |title=Ridership Has Tripled on Toronto's Union Pearson Express |last=Torontoist |date=18 October 2016 |work=Torontoist |access-date=19 April 2017}}</ref> Fares were reduced on 9 March 2016 to $12 for a one-way trip between Union and Pearson, or $9 with a Presto card. On the first day of reduced fares, staff counted 5,300 boardings with 40 per cent of the riders being first-time UPX users, 83 per cent being air travelers and 17 per cent being commuters.<ref name="TheStar-2016-03-17">{{cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/transportation/2016/03/17/union-pearson-express-ridership-spikes-after-fare-reduction.html |title=Union Pearson Express ridership spikes after fare reduction |newspaper=[[Toronto Star]] |first=Tess |last=Kalinowski |date=17 March 2016 |access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref> By June 2016, the daily average ridership had risen to 7,657, and a new record was set on 29 July, when the service carried more than 11,000 passengers.<ref name="ridershiptripled">{{cite news |last1=Marshall |first1=Sean |title=Ridership Has Tripled on Toronto's Union Pearson Express |url=http://torontoist.com/2016/10/ridership-is-up-on-torontos-airport-rail-link/ |work=Torontoist |date=18 October 2016}}</ref> However, the fare reduction has lowered the total revenue collected by the UP Express, which is expected to be below what is required for its operating costs.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/upx-cant-break-even-at-lower-fare-report-finds/article29657207/ |title=Union Pearson Express can't break even at lower fare, report finds |newspaper=Globe and Mail |first=Oliver |last=Moore |date=17 April 2016 |access-date=10 February 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2017/05/25/union-pearson-express-ridership-up-but-still-heavily-subsidized.html |title=Union Pearson Express ridership up, but still heavily subsidized |newspaper=Toronto Star |date=25 May 2017 |access-date=27 May 2017}}</ref> It was revealed that since opening day to March 2016, the UP Express' provincial operating subsidy totaled $39.3{{nbsp}}million or about $52.26 per ride.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2016/06/30/annual-report-shows-upx-was-subsidized-by-province.html |title=UPX airport train subsidized $52 per ride last year |newspaper=Toronto Star |date=30 June 2016 |access-date=27 May 2017}}</ref>

In July 2018, the most recent month for which ridership data is available, the UP Express carried approximately 356,000 passengers.<ref name="secret">{{Cite web |last=Spurr |first=Ben|date=2018-08-22 |title=Despite record ridership, how much it costs to operate Union Pearson Express remains a secret |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/despite-record-ridership-how-much-it-costs-to-operate-union-pearson-express-remains-a-secret/article_7c396ac8-624d-58ae-8f10-3b8de1b322e4.html |access-date=2023-10-26 |website=[[Toronto Star]] |language=en}}</ref> From July to September 2022, the UP Express carried approximately 719,000 passengers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gallagher |first=Martin |title=Operations Quarterly Report |url=https://assets.metrolinx.com/image/upload/v1670778723/Documents/Metrolinx/20221201_BoardMtg_Operations-GO_UP_Quarterly.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230518003538/https://assets.metrolinx.com/image/upload/v1670778723/Documents/Metrolinx/20221201_BoardMtg_Operations-GO_UP_Quarterly.pdf |archive-date=18 May 2023 |access-date=26 October 2023 |website=Metrolinx}}</ref>

On 11 March 2021, UP Express became the first transit agency in the Greater Toronto Area to launch the new Presto open payment system. Riders have the option to tap on and off using a credit card ([[Visa card|Visa]], [[Mastercard]] or [[American Express]]), [[Interac]] debit card or a [[Mobile payment|mobile device]] (mobile phone or watch) on a PRESTO fare device, instead of tapping a Presto card.<ref name="TheStar-2021-03-10">{{cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2021/03/10/metrolinx-to-start-testing-credit-card-tap-on-up-express-presto-readers-this-week.html |title=Metrolinx to start testing credit card tap on UP Express Presto readers this week |newspaper=[[Toronto Star]] |first=Ben |last=Spurr |date=10 March 2021 |access-date=11 March 2021}}</ref><ref name="Metrolinx-contactless">{{cite web |url=https://www.contactless.prestocard.ca/en |title=Testing new ways to pay with PRESTO |publisher=[[Metrolinx]] |access-date=11 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210312004649/https://www.contactless.prestocard.ca/en | archive-date=12 March 2021 }}</ref>

==Public opposition and legal challenges==
Residents living along the [[Weston, Toronto|Weston]] section of the route have objected to alterations to accommodate the GO Georgetown South corridor improvements and the addition of UP Express trains. Concerns include the division of Weston from the closing of level crossings, noise levels, air quality and property values.<ref name="Fast track" /><ref name="Metrolinx vows" /> In April 2009, the Clean Train Coalition (CTC), representing the communities along the rail corridor, formed to put pressure on Metrolinx and the province to immediately prioritize electrification of the densely populated Georgetown South corridor and Union-Pearson Rail Link on opening day.<ref>[http://cleantrain.ca/press_elecstudy.php "Backgrounder – Position Statement", ''Clean Train Coalition'', 3 June 2009] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110706173010/http://cleantrain.ca/press_elecstudy.php |date=6 July 2011 }}</ref> However, both the province and Metrolinx Chairman Rob Prichard have indicated that using diesel trains is the only way to prevent significant delays. "We believe the Greater Toronto Area needs this project as fast as possible, and that means going with the cleanest diesel technology in the world," stated Prichard.<ref name="Construction start" />

In August 2012, the CTC took legal action against Metrolinx by submitting an application for judicial review. The application requested "quashing and setting aside any decision to implement or run Diesel Multiple Units along the Air Rail Link", on the basis that by taking direction from the Ontario government to complete the UP Express in time for the Pan American Games, a proper analysis between operating diesel and electric trains was not completed, running contrary to Metrolinx's legislated mandate. It also asserted that another review of air quality was warranted due to the [[World Health Organization]]'s (WHO) reclassification of [[diesel exhaust]] as a [[carcinogen]].<ref name="Application" />

Saba Ahmad, the lawyer representing the CTC, described the application as a test of whether government agencies must obey their own legislation.<ref name="CTC TransTO" /> On 21 November 2012, the Ontario Divisional Court turned down the application, and ordered the CTC to pay $30,000 in court costs.<ref name="Dismiss">{{cite news |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/court-clears-way-for-diesel-trains-on-new-pearson-route-1.1295314 |work=CBC News |title=Court clears way for diesel trains on new Pearson route |date=21 November 2012 |access-date=22 November 2012}}</ref>

==Transit alternatives==
{{Main|Toronto Pearson International Airport#Bus}}
[[File:Union Pearson Express.JPG|thumb|right|Union Pearson train at Union Station]]
The Toronto Transit Commission offers a frequent express bus route, the 900 Airport Express, between [[Kipling station]] and Pearson. Buses depart every 10 minutes or less, and a trip from downtown to Pearson Airport takes 45 minutes for the cost of a [[Toronto Transit Commission fares|TTC fare]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ttc.ca/riding-the-ttc/Service-to-the-airport/Toronto-Pearson-International-Airport |title=Service to Toronto Pearson International Airport |publisher=Toronto Transit Commission |access-date=18 January 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ttc.ca/routes-and-schedules#/900/0 |title=900 Airport Rocket |publisher=Toronto Transit Commission |access-date=18 January 2023}}</ref>

From 1993 until 2014, the [[Toronto Airport Express]] was a privately operated [[airport bus]] service from the airport to downtown Toronto operated by [[Pacific Western Transportation]]. The route was founded by [[Gray Coach]] in 1979.<ref name="Express fares">{{cite web |title=Fares |url=http://www.torontoairportexpress.com/fares.php |work=Toronto Airport Express |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111201064935/http://www.torontoairportexpress.com/ |archive-date=1 December 2011 |url-status=live |year=2011}}</ref> As of 2012, a "One Ride Scheduled Service" to or from downtown Toronto cost $26.95 and a "One Ride On-Demand Airport Express Connect" fare cost $29.95. A one-way trip took approximately 45 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic. The service ceased operation on 31 October 2014 due to declining ridership, the popularity of the [[Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport|Billy Bishop Airport]] on Toronto Island, delays due to downtown road construction, and anticipated competition from the Union Pearson Express.<ref>{{cite news |title=Toronto Airport Express bus to stop service this fall |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2014/06/14/toronto_airport_express_bus_to_stop_service_this_fall.html |access-date=14 June 2014 |work=Toronto Star |date=14 June 2014}}</ref>

Other public transit bus services{{Snd}}operated by GO Transit, [[MiWay]], and [[Brampton Transit]]{{Snd}}connect Pearson Airport to Toronto and other cities in the [[Greater Toronto Area]].<ref name="transit">{{cite web |url=http://www.torontopearson.com/en/toandfrom/public/# |title=Public Transportation |publisher=Toronto Pearson Airport |access-date=3 January 2013}}</ref>

==Future==
{{as of|2019}}, Metrolinx is planning a major upgrade to the Union Pearson Express to better integrate it into the GO Transit rail network and to double the frequency of trains to the airport. {{as of|2019|09}}, planning work was in its early stages and no plans had been finalized. The proposal includes:<ref name="TheStar-2019-09-24">{{cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2019/09/24/up-express-to-undergo-major-overhaul-that-could-include-station-renovations-new-trains.html |title=Metrolinx planning major overhaul of UP Express that could include station renovations, new trains |newspaper=[[Toronto Star]] |first=Ben |last=Spurr |date=24 September 2019 |access-date=15 October 2019}}</ref><ref name="TheStar-2019-09-25">{{cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2019/09/25/metrolinx-plans-up-express-overhaul-but-says-80-million-bridge-wont-be-part-of-it.html |title=Metrolinx plans UP Express overhaul but says $80{{nbsp}}million bridge won't be part of it |newspaper=[[Toronto Star]] |first=Ben |last=Spurr |date=25 September 2019 |access-date=15 October 2019}}</ref>
* Replacement of the existing diesel trainsets with electric trains that could also be used elsewhere in the GO Transit network once parts of that network are electrified.
* Relocation of the Union Station platform for UP Express from the west wing of Union Station to the middle of the train shed south of the station's Great Hall.
* Elimination of high platform areas at GO stations along the route, with UP Express trains using the same platforms as regular GO trains.

According to the planning document dated 22 February 2019, it is uncertain whether the UP Express infrastructure at airport Terminal 1 can be modified to accommodate electrified GO trains. There were no cost estimates for infrastructure changes.<ref name="TheStar-2019-09-24" /><ref name="TheStar-2019-09-25" />

==References==
{{Reflist}}<!--added above External links/Sources by script-assisted edit-->

==External links==
{{commons category}}
*{{Official website|https://www.upexpress.com/}}
* {{YouTube|yjdPGC8T5Rs|"Union Pearson Express 2020 – Toronto's Air Rail Link"}}, ''RMTransit'', 8 March 2020

{{GO Transit}}
{{Metrolinx}}
{{Toronto passenger railways}}
{{Canadianmetros}}

{{Coord|43.677|N|79.470|W|display=title}}

{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Airport rail links in Canada|Toronto]]
[[Category:Passenger rail transport in Toronto]]
[[Category:Metrolinx]]
[[Category:Toronto Pearson International Airport]]
[[Category:The Big Move projects]]
[[Category:Railway lines opened in 2015]]
[[Category:2015 establishments in Ontario]]