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Lost At YYZ? 7 Crucial Steps To Recover Your Item From Toronto Pearson Airport Lost And Found

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Losing a personal item at a busy hub like Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) can instantly turn a smooth trip into a stressful ordeal. As of December 20, 2025, the process for retrieving lost property is clearly defined, but it requires knowing exactly which department handles your specific loss—the airport, the airline, or security. With over 33,500 items reported lost annually, understanding the correct procedure is the fastest way to reunite with your valuables.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the critical steps, contact information, and specific locations you need to know to successfully recover everything from a forgotten laptop to a missing passport within the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) jurisdiction.

The Critical Distinction: Airport Property vs. Checked Baggage

The single most important piece of information for any traveler is understanding the difference in responsibility. Toronto Pearson's Lost and Found office only handles items lost in specific, non-airline areas. Misdirecting your claim will result in significant delays.

  • Airport Lost & Found Handles: Items lost within the public areas of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, including gate areas, washrooms, food courts, parking garages, and the Terminal Link train station.
  • Airlines Handle: All checked luggage (lost, delayed, or damaged) and any items left on board an aircraft.
  • CATSA Handles (Temporarily): Items left at the security screening checkpoints (CATSA). These items are typically transferred to the airport’s main Lost and Found office shortly thereafter.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Toronto Pearson Lost Item Report (YYZ)

If your item was lost anywhere within the terminal or parking areas, follow these seven crucial steps immediately. Do not wait, as found items are only kept for a maximum of 30 days before disposal.

1. Submit an Online Lost Item Report

This is the fastest and most efficient way to start the recovery process. The airport utilizes an online form to match reported lost items with found property. You will need to provide detailed information about the item and your contact details.

  • What to Include: Your full name, email, phone number, the terminal (T1 or T3), the specific location (e.g., Gate B24, Aisle 5 of the parking garage), the date and time of loss, and a detailed description of the item (color, brand, contents, distinguishing marks).
  • Why it’s Crucial: The online report generates a reference number and allows the Lost and Found team to search their inventory without requiring you to wait on hold or visit the office immediately.

2. Contact the Office Directly (If Necessary)

While the online form is preferred, you can follow up with the office during operating hours if your loss is urgent (such as a passport or essential medication).

  • YYZ Lost and Found Phone Number: (416) 247-7678.
  • Note: This number is for property lost in the terminal, not for checked baggage issues.

3. Check the Security Screening Checkpoint (CATSA)

If you suspect your item—especially a laptop, tablet, or belt—was left behind at the security screening area, the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) checkpoint staff may still have it. While they eventually transfer items to the main office, a quick check with the nearest CATSA agent may yield immediate results.

Visiting the Toronto Pearson Lost and Found Office

Once you receive a notification that your item has been found, or if you prefer to make an in-person inquiry, you must visit the official office location. Note the strict operating hours.

Location and Hours of Operation

  • Location: Terminal 1, Ground Level (Before security). The office is situated between Doors R and S.
  • Days and Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. The office is typically closed on weekends and major holidays.
  • Retrieval Requirement: You must present valid photo identification to claim your item. If someone else is collecting it for you, they will need a written authorization letter from you, along with copies of both your ID and theirs.

The Separate Process for Lost Luggage (Checked Bags)

Do not contact the airport's Lost and Found office for delayed, damaged, or lost checked luggage. This is solely the responsibility of the airline you flew with, as per international air travel regulations.

4. File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR)

If your checked baggage does not arrive at the carousel, you must immediately go to your airline’s baggage claim desk, usually located near the baggage carousel area. You will be required to file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

  • Why a PIR is Essential: The PIR is a mandatory document that officially registers your bag as missing and starts the tracing process. It also serves as the basis for any potential compensation claim under the Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR).
  • Contact the Airline: Once the PIR is filed, all follow-up inquiries must be directed to your specific airline (e.g., Air Canada, WestJet, United, etc.), not YYZ.

5. Follow Up with Your Airline

Airlines use global tracing systems. Ensure you have the PIR reference number and use the airline's dedicated online baggage tracing tool. Be prepared to provide details about your bag's appearance, brand, and contents to aid in identification.

What Happens to Unclaimed Items?

The 30-day retention policy is strictly enforced for all found property at Toronto Pearson. If an item is not claimed within this period, it is either donated to a local charity or disposed of, depending on its nature and condition. This strict timeline underscores the need for prompt action.

6. Be Detailed and Patient

When filling out the online form, be as specific as possible. Instead of "a black bag," write "a black leather backpack, Herschel brand, containing a blue water bottle and a copy of 'The Midnight Library'." This level of detail significantly increases the chances of a successful match.

7. Document Everything

Keep a record of your online report reference number, the date and time you submitted it, and the name of any staff member you spoke with. This documentation is vital for tracking your claim and for any potential insurance claims if the item remains lost.

Lost at YYZ? 7 Crucial Steps to Recover Your Item from Toronto Pearson Airport Lost and Found
toronto airport lost and found
toronto airport lost and found

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