The New Non-Stop Service
Air India has announced a new seasonal non-stop service connecting Mumbai (BOM) and Toronto (YYZ). This direct flight, operating three times a week from October 25, 2026, to March 26, 2027, marks a significant enhancement for travellers, as Air India will
be the only carrier operating direct flights between the two cities during this period. The route will be serviced by a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, which features a multi-class configuration. This addition provides a much-anticipated direct link, eliminating the layovers that were previously a standard part of the journey. For many, especially those travelling with family or for business, this direct connection promises to make the long-haul journey more efficient and comfortable.
Decoding Your Baggage Allowance
Understanding baggage rules is the first step to a stress-free check-in. For international routes like Mumbai to Toronto, Economy Class passengers on full-service carriers like Air India typically receive a checked baggage allowance. This usually consists of up to two bags, with each bag not exceeding 23 kg (50 lbs). It's crucial to check the specific allowance tied to your ticket, as different fare types (Economy, Business) have different entitlements. Your cabin baggage is generally limited to one standard carry-on bag and one personal item, like a laptop bag or handbag. Remember that these bags must be light enough for you to place in the overhead bin unaided. Always weigh your bags at home and ensure they conform to the airline's maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) to avoid steep excess baggage fees at the airport.
Arriving at Toronto Pearson (YYZ)
Upon landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport, you will follow a clear, multi-step process. First, you'll proceed to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) area for immigration. You can save time here by using the Advance Declaration feature in the ArriveCAN app up to 72 hours before arrival, or by using one of the Primary Inspection Kiosks (PIK) upon landing. These kiosks allow you to scan your passport, take a photo, and complete your customs declaration digitally before seeing a border officer. After clearing immigration, you will go to the baggage hall to collect your luggage. From there, you'll pass through a final customs check before entering the public arrivals hall.
Connecting to Another Canadian City
If Toronto is just your entry point into Canada before you fly to another city like Vancouver, Montreal, or Calgary, the process is streamlined. After you clear primary immigration inspection with the CBSA, you must collect your checked baggage. This is a standard procedure for all international arrivals in Canada. Once you have your bags, you will follow the signs for 'Connections' or 'Domestic Transfers'. You will pass through customs and then re-check your bags at a dedicated baggage drop-off counter for your connecting airline. Since you have already cleared immigration, you will then proceed through security screening for the domestic departures area and on to your next gate. Always ensure you leave ample time between flights—at least three hours is recommended—to comfortably navigate this process.
Connecting to the United States
Toronto Pearson is one of several Canadian airports that offers U.S. Preclearance. This fantastic facility allows you to clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before you even board your flight to the United States. If you have a connecting flight to an American city, the process is slightly different. After arriving from Mumbai and clearing Canadian customs with your luggage, you will follow the signs for 'U.S. Connections'. You will take your bags with you to the U.S. preclearance area, check them in for your U.S. flight, and then go through both security and U.S. immigration and customs formalities. The major advantage is that upon landing in the U.S., you arrive as a domestic passenger, allowing you to simply walk off the plane and head to your next connection or exit the airport without further processing.
