Toronto (May 12, 2015) – Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport was voted as one of the top ten Most Beautiful Airport Approaches in the world in a global poll, the results of which were announced by Private Fly today. Billy Bishop Airport ranked seventh, making it the only Canadian airport to be recognized alongside airports located in some of the world’s most scenic destinations, including Queenstown Airport in New Zealand, Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport in France, and Cape Town International Airport in South Africa.
The 2015 list of the top ten Most Beautiful Airport Approaches is the result of thousands of votes cast by travellers from around the world. Located on the Toronto Islands, Billy Bishop Airport offers the 2.4 million passengers who travel through the airport each year a scenic view of Toronto’s skyline and vibrant harbour as they arrive and depart from the city.
“Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is delighted to be recognized as having one of the world’s most picturesque airport approaches, both in Canada and worldwide, offering unparalleled views of Toronto’s skyline and harbour – a spectacular first impression for travellers flying into our city,” said Geoffrey Wilson, CEO of PortsToronto, owner and operator of the airport. “Our airport serves as a key international gateway for business travel and tourism in the Greater Toronto Area and being chosen by travellers as one of the world’s top ten airport approaches further validates Billy Bishop Airport’s position as a world-class facility.”
PrivateFly’s 2015 Airport Poll has revealed this year’s Top 10 Most Stunning Airport Approaches.
1. QUEENSTOWN AIRPORT
You said:
“I’ve flown to many beautiful locations worldwide but NOTHING even comes close to comparing with the thrill and beauty that stuns you as you come in to land at Queenstown. The approach to Queenstown has everything. Looking over the endless Southern Alps, and the pristine turquoise rivers and lakes is just magical.”
“Breathtaking approach with mountains and lakes surrounding you. It feels as if you’re being transported straight to Middle Earth – because you are!”
“I had no words, just tears of awe and beauty when I landed here! It’s completely enveloped by mother nature.”
The judges said:
Bill Prince “A world class approach to a world class destination. The snatched panoramas as you descend into this hitherto barren-looking landscape makes you realise that pilots do get the best views.”
2. LAS VEGAS MCCARRAN AIRPORT
You said:
“As you begin descent, you fly in over a mountain ridge and drop down out of the clouds into a valley of stunning neon and amazing architecture. What’s not to love?”
“This airport approach is unlike any other! Mountains in the background, the sun shining on the resorts, and all the beautiful lights shining from the strip at night.”
“There is no other view like the one at this airport – nothing beats the shining Las Vegas lights as you land.”
The judges said:
Doug Gollan “Arriving at night makes the Las Vegas strip look like some type of miniature recreation. It is always worth a window seat.”
3. NICE CÔTE D’AZUR AIRPORT
You said:
“Whatever the season, landing in Nice is magical. The big blue water, the view of the hills and the snowy mountains in the distance are beautiful.”
“When arriving, you grow impatient to get to the south of France and under the sun! When approaching Nice airport, you fly in over the sea, which is sublime, and the gradual landing – it’s as if you’re gliding across the water. When’s the next trip?”
“The Bay of Angels is among the most beautiful in the world, with the blue sea and Alp peaks all around.”
The judges said:
Tiffany Dowd “Nice, Cote d’Azur has to be one of the most spectacular places to arrive and depart with this breathtaking coastline as far as the eye can see.”
4. BARRA AIRPORT
You said:
“It’s the only airstrip in the world that is washed twice a day by the sea, and the scenery speaks for itself – it’s unique and truly magical.”
“As you cross the water from the mainland you eventually see the hills of the Isle of Barra and surrounding islands in the distance. As you draw closer you are totally enchanted by the contrast of greenery, rugged shorelines, the shimmering waters and the spectacular white sands which you eventually land on (when the tide is out). Totally and utterly amazing!”
“It is one of the only beach runways in the world and is set in a secluded spot that is barely heard of. It puts the joy back into being at the airport and flying!”
The judges said:
Carol Cork “Where else in the world can you fly over majestic mountains, stunning coastline and turquoise seas before descending over an historic harbour castle and landing on a large silver sand beach? Totally stunning and totally unique. Nothing comes close.”
5. ST MAARTEN (PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL) AIRPORT
You said:
“No where in the world can you get so close to a plane landing – it is as if you could jump high enough and touch it. It’s an awesome view, both as a passenger on the plane and as person sitting on the beach below.”
“The views are amazing! With Maho Beach right there, full of beachgoers and planespotters, it’s the best approach anywhere!”
“The low approach leads to aircraft soaring right over the heads of people, and just over the turquoise Caribbean sea!”
The judges said:
Chloe Pantazi “I chose the landing strip at St. Maarten for its proximity to the beach, giving a beautiful view for passengers on landing planes, and a prime photo op for beachgoers, as incoming jets fly overhead.”
6. SABA (JUANCHO E IRAUSQUIN) AIRPORT
You said:
“Never fails to put your heart in your throat as you seem to fly straight into the cliffs, correcting at the very last minute before touchdown. Even then, it’s not over, with the sea ready to meet you as the plane stops just short of the end of the runway and the open sea!”
“It’s always an exhilarating plane ride and the views are incredible. Everyone on the plane feels the same as you when you land – you can almost hear that heartbeat.”
“The view is beyond magnificent and the entrance is a thrilling experience! Pilots have to be qualified and experienced to take on this daunting task.”
The judges said:
David Scowsill “A simply unforgettable and thrilling landing on the world’s shortest runway, flanked by cliffs and ocean with a striking view of its active Volcano, Mount Scenery.”
7. BILLY BISHOP TORONTO CITY AIRPORT
You said:
“The gleaming city skyline to your north, the vast blue sweep of the great Lake Ontario to the south, and lush green parkland of the island mixed with the boats in the harbor directly below you make this airport’s approach truly majestic.”
“Arrival into this airport brings you between the skyscrapers of an international city and lush Canadian Parkland. Both framed by the Great Lakes in a fantastic juxtaposition between earth and human creation. Stunning!”
“How many places in the world can you land downtown? Plus you get an amazing view of the entire city!”
The judges said:
Adam Twidell “A dramatically short island runway, surrounded by city and water. Just moments away from the centre of Toronto. ”
8. GIBRALTAR AIRPORT
You said:
“Such an exciting place to land. You’re always on the edge of your seat on touchdown, with beautiful views surrounding you as you come in to land or take off.”
“Three countries, two continents, and where the ocean meets the sea – spectacular!”
“Sheer excitement to land aside a 1500 foot Rock with magnificent views of the continent of Africa upon approach, all while landing in the first and last country in Europe. A truly unique experience!”
The judges said:
Ana Silva O’Reilly “Not for those with faint hears. Landing at ‘The Rock’ requires a lot of skill (and adverse weather conditions redirect flights to Malaga too often), but if you are lucky it is stunning. Also very interesting to see the geographic differences between nearby Spain and this British territory.”
9. LONDON CITY AIRPORT
You said:
“The unique location of a city centre airport provides stunning views of the London skyline, all while making a descent at 5.5 degrees. It doesn’t get any better.”
“The cockpit windows frame the perfect shot of the world’s financial hub, appreciated by many, but adored only by pilots. Come rain or shine, the city pulses beneath you during every landing.”
“The wonderful historical landmarks when approaching from the West and the density of buildings when approaching from the East. Amazing!”
The judges said:
Frédéric Beniada “For its steep approach and its short runway in the heart of the city.”
10. CAPE TOWN AIRPORT
You said:
“Flying in to see such a great landmark like Table Mountain as well as the beautiful city of Cape Town makes this airport approach truly one-of-a-kind.”
“Not only do you get a spectacular view of Table Mountain, but you also get to see Robben Island and the lovely beaches on Cape Peninsula.”
“Stunning views over Table Mountain, False Bay and the Cape peninsula.”
The judges said:
Adam Twidell “Spectacular views of Table Mountain as you approach. One of the most beautiful cities on earth.”