More delays and cancellations at Pearson as deep freeze continues

TORONTO – The deep freeze enveloping the Toronto region abated somewhat early Wednesday, but the cold weather appeared to still be impacting flights at Pearson International Airport.

The airport instituted a so-called ground stop early Tuesday as the wind chill readings hovered around the -40 C mark. More than 600 flights were cancelled during the day.

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority said the freeze was implemented because of how the cold was affecting equipment and to minimize time outdoors for employees.

Even though it felt like -25 C early Wednesday, the arrivals and departures boards at the country’s biggest airport were again showing numerous delays and cancellations.

Air Canada has advised travellers that severe winter conditions in eastern Canada and the U.S. northeast were still impacting its operations.

Customers are advised to check on-line or by phone to confirm that their flight is operating before going to the airport.

Air Canada vice-president Klaus Goersch said in a statement that the airline was ”doing its utmost to get its customers to their destinations safely and as quickly as possible.”