Flight delays possible due to snow, strong winds at Pearson Airport in Mississauga, Ontario

Strong winds and heavy snow could lead to a number of delayed flights late this afternoon and tonight out of Pearson Airport in Mississauga.

While Pearson officials said via social media late Wednesday afternoon they’re not anticipating any cancelled flights, they’re urging travellers to check the status of their flight before heading to the airport in case of delayed departures.

“Strong winds are expected this afternoon and into the evening, reaching as high as 64 km/h. Snowfall is also expected to impact our operations for the next few hours and cause poor road conditions in the area,” airport officials said in a post to X (formerly Twitter). “While we aren’t expecting airlines to cancel flights because of the weather, there could be some delays. To all passengers coming to Toronto Pearson today, drive with care and give yourself ample time getting to the airport.”

Pearson officials said at the outset of winter they’re more than ready to clear the runways of heavy snow when it arrives. More than 100 snow plows, tractors, trucks and other pieces of equipment are lined up to complete the task, if needed, they noted.

By the numbers, the airport lists the following among its specialized snow removal vehicles and equipment:

• 40 snow plows
• 18 snow tractors
• 15 wheel loaders
• 14 de-icing trucks
• 12 snow blowers
• 7 front-mounted sweepers