Submit feedbackComplete travel information for your October journey
October is a shoulder-season travel window for the JFK–YYZ route with lower fares than summer and comfortable fall weather. Expect moderate passenger volumes around Columbus Day and U.S. regional fall events; this is a good month to book cheap flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) if you want to enjoy fall foliage in Ontario. For departures from New York City, Brooklyn, Long Island, Westchester and nearby cities, check morning and late-evening nonstop schedules for the best prices and on-time performance. Pack layers for variable temperatures and monitor airline alerts for any weather-related adjustments.
For international departures from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) in October, arrive at least 2 to 3 hours before scheduled departure. October can bring moderate holiday traffic (Columbus Day weekend) and seasonal weather delays; early arrival gives time for check-in, security screening, and any airline counter processing.
Many carriers operating JFK–YYZ routes use Terminal 4 or Terminal 7 depending on the airline (Air Canada and several international carriers often use Terminal 4; American and Delta may operate from Terminals 8 and 2 respectively). Check your airline confirmation for the exact terminal and allow extra transit time between terminals if you are connecting from Newark or LaGuardia.
October brings crisp fall weather; while New York rarely sees snow in October, fog and wind can cause short delays. Cross-border flights to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) may be affected by low clouds or early-season storms, so monitor airline alerts and consider travel insurance or flexible tickets for October travel.
Baggage allowances depend on the airline and fare class; most US and Canadian carriers include one carry-on and a personal item, with checked bag fees varying by carrier. For Air Canada and some legacy carriers, checked baggage may be included for higher fare classes—always check your airline's baggage policy and purchase extra allowance in advance to save on fees.
TSA PreCheck expedites security screening at JFK for eligible US domestic and some international travelers, but Global Entry is a CBP program for expedited arrival to the U.S.; it does not speed up departure screening. If you have TSA PreCheck, use the designated lanes at JFK to save time before your flight to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ).
Options include the JFK AirTrain from Jamaica Station (accessible via Long Island Rail Road or subway), taxis, app-based ride services, and private shuttles. For October morning flights, plan for typical NYC traffic and give extra time during Columbus Day weekend or early autumn events in Manhattan; using the LIRR + AirTrain often avoids surface traffic delays.
October arrivals at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) bring cool, crisp weather and vibrant fall colors across Ontario. Travelers from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) should prepare for Canadian Thanksgiving (second Monday in October) when terminals and ground transport may experience higher demand. Use NEXUS or APC kiosks to speed through CBSA, and consider booking UP Express or prearranged transfer for reliable service into downtown Toronto, Mississauga, or connections to Hamilton and Niagara Falls.
Upon arrival at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), expect standard CBSA immigration processing; October can be busier around Canadian Thanksgiving, so allow extra time for passport control and baggage claim. After clearing customs, travelers can reach downtown Toronto, Mississauga, Hamilton, and Niagara Falls via UP Express, taxi, rideshare or regional buses.
NEXUS members use expedited lanes at some Canadian airports, speeding up border control for pre-approved travelers; Automated Passport Control kiosks and eGates at Toronto Pearson also accelerate processing for eligible travelers. If you travel frequently between John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Toronto Pearson (YYZ), consider applying for NEXUS to shorten wait times at YYZ.
Options include the UP Express train to downtown Toronto (Union Station), taxis, rideshare services, and regional buses to Mississauga and Hamilton. In October, UP Express schedules are reliable and a fast option for avoiding highway congestion—book ahead during Canadian Thanksgiving weekend when demand rises.
October brings seasonal highlights near both endpoints: Canadian Thanksgiving weekend festivities in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area, fall foliage tours around Niagara Falls and the Niagara Peninsula, and the start of the NHL and NBA seasons in Toronto (Maple Leafs, Raptors games in October). In New York, Columbus Day weekend events and fall cultural festivals may impact departures from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Book tickets and travel early if your trip coincides with major sporting or holiday events.
October is a great time to fly between John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) due to shoulder-season pricing and pleasant fall weather. The best combination of price and reliability is typically midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) with early-morning departures. Avoid peak holiday weekends such as Columbus Day and Canadian Thanksgiving to secure better fares and smoother airport experiences.
Nonstop flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) are the quickest and often the most convenient option, especially for short business trips or weekend getaways in October. Connecting itineraries can be cheaper but add travel time and the risk of missed connections in adverse weather. For October travel, weigh the savings of a one-stop fare against the benefits of nonstop reliability during fall weather variability.
Major carriers on the JFK–YYZ route include Air Canada, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. Air Canada frequently offers multiple daily nonstop services and convenient connections across Canada; American and Delta provide competitive schedules and loyalty program options. Compare fare classes, baggage policies, and loyalty benefits—Air Canada may include checked bags for higher fare classes while US legacy carriers may charge for entry-level fares.
For October travel between John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), pack layered clothing due to variable fall temperatures and possible rain. Carry essential travel documents, receipts for any high-value purchases, and ensure your passport is valid for cross-border travel. Consider travel insurance for weather-related disruptions and book UP Express or pre-booked shuttles to avoid delays at YYZ during Canadian Thanksgiving weekend.
Typical nonstop flight time from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) ranges from 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes. Morning and evening peak windows offer the most nonstop frequencies, with several daily options operated by Air Canada, American Airlines, and Delta. In October, choose early-morning departures for a higher likelihood of on-time arrivals and fewer weather-related disruptions.
To find cheap flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) in October, compare fares across airlines (Air Canada, American Airlines, Delta) and use flexible date search tools to spot weekday savings. Book 3–8 weeks ahead for the best October deals, and prioritize early-morning or late-evening nonstop flights for lower prices and better on-time performance. Consider bundle deals, sign up for fare alerts, and use airline loyalty points or credit card rewards for reduced fares.
October often features cool temperatures, rain, and occasional early freezing rain or fog in southern Ontario, which can trigger brief arrival delays or runway changes. Keep an eye on airline notifications and local weather forecasts for Toronto and plan buffer time for onward connections to Niagara Falls or Ottawa.
Yes—declare any goods you are bringing into Canada that exceed personal exemptions or are subject to restrictions. If you purchase duty-free in the U.S., make sure to follow CBSA guidance on limits and declare items as required; Canadian Thanksgiving in October may involve higher volumes of returning travelers, so keep receipts handy to streamline the process.
Most airline lounges, shops, and restaurants at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) operate normally in October, though hours can vary by terminal and airline. Expect full service in Terminals 1 and 3; verify lounge access policies with your carrier prior to arrival, especially during holiday weekends like Canadian Thanksgiving.
