Reason to Love Toronto: Because it’s never been easier to get out of town

It’s a distant, foggy memory now, but let’s briefly recap: back in 2003, when David Miller ran for mayor, promising to obliterate a planned bridge to the evil island airport, we got swept up in the cause, the conviction, the anti-airport passion of the moment. Hell, we even voted for him because of it. Then Porter wiggled its way into our hearts with its complimentary cappuccinos and first-class service at coach rates. While Pearson grew ever more unbearable (the traffic, the schlepping, the waiting, the herding), the little airport that could sprouted a cute new name (Billy Bishop), and whatever it was that seemed so objectionable about it dissipated faster than foam on a free latte.

Unless you’re an Islander (or your name is Adam Vaughan), chances are the announcement that Air Canada and Continental would both begin flying out of Billy Bishop this month filled you with travel lust and glee. The Toronto Port Authority awarded 30 daily slots to Air Canada (which plans to run round trips to Montreal and eventually Ottawa) and 16 to Continental (which will fly to Newark). It also expanded Porter’s allotment from 112 to 156. Bob Deluce, Porter’s crafty CEO, claims to welcome the competition. That’s business-speak for “We’re going to clobber you guys.” (Deluce famously ousted Air Canada from the island five years ago.) To the rest of us, however, it translates into lower prices and more flight options, all within a few minutes of downtown. We’ll clink a complimentary cocktail to that.