Call To Action!! Go Transit, Metrolinx and the Greater Toronto Airport Authority!!

We are writing to express our concern regarding the recent reduction and soon to be discontinuation of the 50% employee discount on GO Bus travel for workers at Pearson International Airport. As dedicated members of the airport community, we have relied on this discount to make commuting more affordable, convenient, and environmentally responsible.

The 50% discount has been a crucial benefit for airport employees, helping alleviate some of the financial burdens of daily commuting. In addition to supporting the livelihood of essential workers, this discount has also contributed to broader environmental goals by encouraging the use of public transit over personal vehicles. Reducing the number of cars on the road decreases traffic congestion, lowers carbon emissions, and supports the sustainability of the Greater Toronto Area’s transit system

No matter where we work commuting is an essential part of our daily routine. As employees of Toronto Pearson International Airport, we rely on the GO Transit system to transport us to and from work every day. Due to our specific circumstances, commuting by GO Bus has become a major expense for us, with the recent reduced discount price of 25% from 50% and then as of January 2025 the elimination of the discount for the GO Transit Fare Pilot Program. 

This discount is more than a cost-saving measure; it recognized the significant role we play in keeping the city's travel infrastructure running and acknowledged the high costs associated with our daily commute. With the already reduced discount many of us are already feeling the financial strain. It is an uncomfortable feeling knowing that after January 2025 the discount will not exist, causing more financial strain and possibly having to resort to traveling by personal vehicle to work as taking the bus is no longer a convenient nor cost saving way of commute. 

As we contribute to the operation of the region's largest airport and, by extension, the economy of Ontario, this change to our discount affects not only us, but also the performance of our vital roles as well as affecting the general public due to possible tardiness of workers from even more increased traffic congestion, increased emissions and a negative environmental impact. 

In an era when environmental sustainability is a growing concern, this type of initiative benefits not just the individuals who receive the discount, but all of us who rely on cleaner air and less crowded roadways. We believe abolishing our discount undermines efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of the airport community and will put more vehicles back in the road causing increased congestion.

As loyal commuters to work using the GO Bus we believe that discounts lead to an increase in ridership and transit loyalty. Hence, this isn't merely about easing the financial burden of transit employees; it's about improving accessibility for workers and promoting sustainable transit use, all while enhancing the environmental health of our region.

We understand that financial decisions must be made with a larger picture in mind. However, we urge GO Transit, Metrolinx and the Greater Toronto Airport Authority to consider the essential role that airport employees play, the importance of making public transportation accessible and affordable, and the positive environmental impact that a reinstated discount would have.

We urge GO Transit, Metrolinx and the Greater Toronto Airport Authority to reinstate the 50% employee discount for the GO Transit Fare Pilot Program, not just for the benefit of the airport employees, but for the good of the entire community. Reinstating the 50% discount would help maintain a greener, more sustainable transit network, reduce congestion, and support the people who keep Canada's largest airport running smoothly! 

Help us help you keep Pearson Airport moving!!

Please sign this petition and support our call for a fair commute!!