Flying from Toronto's island airport could soon be cheaper, thanks to $5 million in new federal spending announced yesterday by Public Safety Minister Peter Van Loan.

The funds will pay for customs services at six airports in Canada.

"Previously, such services were paid for by the air carrier and effectively charged back through fares," Van Loan said at a news conference at the island airport.

"What does it mean? Lower-cost air travel (and) higher levels of service," the minister said.

Border services at bigger airports such as Pearson International are already publicly funded.

The new funding falls under the Air Services Policy Framework, which doles out money based on the number of international travellers and flights at an airport.

"Today's announcement recognizes the importance of the Toronto City Centre Airport as one of the 20 busiest airports in Canada," said Porter Airlines CEO Robert Deluce.