Canadian Aviation News

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Category: Airports

  • A new craft beer experience, Summit House, is landing at YYC

    Calgary, Alberta – The Authority’s long-time concessions partner, HMSHost, has opened a new restaurant at YYC featuring craft beers from local brewery, Banded Peak Brewing.

    In collaboration with global restaurateur HMSHost, The Calgary Airport Authority is excited to announce the opening of Summit House, the newest addition to YYC Calgary International Airport’s elevated restaurant offerings that support local brands and products.

    Located near B Gates, Summit House offers guests an authentic taste of Calgary through a partnership with one of the city’s renowned local craft breweries, Banded Peak Brewing, founded in Calgary in 2016 by Alex Horner, Colin McLean, and Matthew Berard.

    “Summit House is an exciting new concept inspired by local Calgary entrepreneurs that will offer guests a casual yet elevated taphouse environment,” said Chris Niergarth, General Manager Commercial & Retail Development, The Calgary Airport Authority. “Introducing options like this underscores our commitment to provide guests with excellent dining experiences that reflect local businesses. We’re proud to bring Summit House to YYC in partnership with HMSHost and look forward to future success together.”

    Guests at YYC can indulge in over a half dozen of Banded Peak Brewing’s award-winning craft beers on draft, including favorites like Microburst Hazy IPA, Mount Crushmore Pilsner, and the acclaimed Summit Seeker Amber IPA. Summit House boasts a diverse, all-day menu featuring travellers’ favourite comfort foods and delectable dishes designed to fuel their journey.

    Summit House joins a lineup of dining venues operated by HMSHost at YYC, including Flames Grill and LB Taphouse, which celebrate the local flavour and culture of Calgary. These concepts are part of The Authority’s ongoing work to refresh concessions offerings and enhance the guest experience at YYC.

    “Summit House is a unique collaboration that melds the culinary and operational prowess of HMSHost with the exceptional craft brewing expertise of Banded Peak Brewing. We are proud of our continued partnership with The Calgary Airport Authority, so we can make a traveller’s journey as exciting as the destination by offering them a taste of the adventure that awaits them in Calgary — even if they are just passing through,” said Amy Dunne, Senior Vice President of Business Development for the concessionaire.

    More about Summit House:
    From appetizers like pork dry ribs and chili garlic chicken lettuce wraps to signature dishes such as the Summit Seeker Amber IPA poutine, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Whether it’s the classic House Burger or the adventurous Salmon Bowl, each dish is expertly crafted to complement the cold craft beers on offer.

    In addition to an extensive craft beer selection, Summit House provides a full bar experience with a variety of bottled and canned brews, wine, cocktails, and spirits.

    Summit House at YYC is open seven days a week from 4:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., inviting travellers to experience a culinary adventure before embarking on their next destination.

    About The Calgary Airport Authority:

    The Calgary Airport Authority is a not-for-profit organization incorporated under the Regional Airports Authorities Act of Alberta. The Authority is responsible for the management, operation and development of YYC Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Springbank Airport (YBW). The Authority’s commitment to safety remains a top priority. Our airports are important economic generators for the city, region and province, supporting thousands of jobs and generating billions in GDP through associated economic activity. The Authority was also recognized as one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 2024. 

  • YMM’s Hareport Eggstravaganza Brings Community Together and Raises Funds for Local Social Profits

    March 20, 2024

    Event brings in $6,150 for United Way Fort McMurray & Wood Buffalo Agencies                          

    Fort McMurray, AB – Last Saturday, over 1,500 guests visited the Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) to attend the YMM Hareport Eggstravaganza. Proceeds raised support the important programming and services offered through United Way & Wood Buffalo (UW) partner agencies.

    “These community events are an opportunity to promote YMM as a welcoming, safe place to gather and to strengthen the relationships we have with the community we serve,” says Denean Robinson, President & CEO, Fort McMurray Airport Authority.

    Event attendees enjoyed games, crafts, treats, visiting with furry friends from the Pets & Wellness Society (PAWS), and photos with the Easter Bunny.

    A record number of children registered for the sensory hour, during which children enjoyed a quiet, calm environment, and complimentary fidgets. “Inclusivity is important to keep top of mind when hosting community events,” says Danielle Lidstone, Community Development Officer, Autism Society of the RMWB. “Hats off to YMM for ensuring all children were able to participate and join in on the fun, we are grateful to the airport for hosting inclusive events.”

    Executive Director of UW Cathy Steeves highlights the importance to giving to UW now more than ever, “In the face of economic downturns, rising costs, and other uncertainties, the social profit sector has seen a significant decrease in donations. The unwavering support received from our community partners such as YMM is a beacon of hope and plays a vital role in fulfilling UW’s fundraising efforts.

    FMAA offers its sincerest thanks to the many partners, sponsors, donors and volunteers who made the event possible.

    About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com  

    Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA). YMM connects the world to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. YMM offers direct flights to three major Canadian cities, and acts as the launch point for air taxi services to various remote communities. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic impact of over $290 million, supporting over 40 businesses and 500 jobs on airport campus.

  • Porter connects Montréal to sunny California with two non-stop routes

    Eastern Canada connecting with Los Angeles and San Francisco

    TORONTO, March 12, 2024 /CNW/ – Porter Airlines is adding seasonal roundtrip flights on two new non-stop routes between Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

    Porter Airlines is adding seasonal roundtrip flights on two new non-stop routes between Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO). (CNW Group/Porter Airlines Inc.)

    The new YUL-LAX route begins June 27, with four-times weekly service. YUL-SFO begins on June 28, with three-times weekly service. The program ends on October 26. The new routes provide another way to travel between Porter’s extensive Eastern Canada network and the U.S. west coast.

    Service features on these routes include complimentary premium snacks, beer and wine served in glassware, and free, fast WiFi for all passengers. Fresh, healthy meals are also provided on an all-inclusive basis with PorterReserve fares or may be purchased à la carte for passengers travelling in PorterClassic.

    The new flights are operated with the state-of-the-art 132-seat Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. The two-by-two configuration means there are no middle seats on any Porter flight.

    The E2 is the most environmentally-friendly single-aisle aircraft, at 65% quieter and up to 25% more fuel efficient than previous-generation technology. It has the lowest fuel consumption per seat and per trip among 120- to 150-seat aircraft, and is the quietest single-aisle jet flying today.

    The flight schedule is as follows:

    RouteService beginsDepartureArrival
    YUL-LAX(Mon., Wed., Thurs., Sat.)June 277:40 p.m.10:36 p.m.
    LAX-YUL(Tues., Thurs., Fri., Sun.)June 286:15 a.m.2:40 p.m.
    YUL-SFO(Tues., Fri., Sun.)June 288:00 p.m.11:12 p.m.
    SFO-YUL(Mon., Wed., Sat.)June 296:15 a.m.2:40 p.m.

    The scheduled service will connect via YUL to Halifax, Toronto-Pearson and Toronto-City, complementing existing daily non-stop service between Toronto-Pearson and both Los Angeles and San Francisco.

    Porter’s codeshare partnership with Air Transat facilitates convenient connections from YUL throughout Europe, to destinations like Paris, London, Rome and Marseille. Passengers have more choice and an improved experience when moving between the carriers.

    Those flying into Los Angeles and San Francisco connect into Porter’s partner Alaska Airlines and its well-established U.S. West Coast network, providing access to markets such as Portland, San Diego, Seattle and Phoenix.

    Montréal is the second-largest city in Canada and one of the top urban destinations in North America with its rich history and character. Travellers can wander the cobbled streets as they explore all of the fashion, food and festivities that Montréal has to offer. For outdoor lovers and creative souls, the Golden State provides endless beaches, vibrant neighbourhoods, and countless attractions for all types of travellers.

    Detailed schedules and Porter Escapes vacation packages can be found on www.flyporter.com.

    Quotes

    “Passengers can now more easily travel across the continent in style with Porter’s unmatched elevated economy experience. These Montréal routes connect to destinations across the globe with Porter’s strategic partnerships, providing more options that travellers crave.”

    –       Kevin Jackson, president, Porter Airlines

    “ADM Aéroports de Montréal is delighted with the addition of these two routes to destinations popular with Montréal travellers. Whether for leisure or business, as a final destination or a connecting city, Los Angeles and San Francisco offer a wide range of possibilities, and these connections once again confirm YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport’s positioning as a truly international hub. We thank Porter for diversifying its air services from our airport and offering passengers additional options. Our entire community benefits!”

    –       Mark Ruel, Director, Air Service Development, ADM Aéroports de Montréal

    “We are excited to welcome Porter Airlines’ new service from SFO to Montréal this summer. Porter offers San Francisco Bay Area travellers an exciting new way to Canada that reflects our own commitment to creating an exceptional air travel experience. We thank Porter for their continued support of SFO and are confident this new service will be a success.”

    –       Ivar C. Satero, airport director, San Francisco International Airport

    “LAX looks forward to Porter Airlines’ new seasonal service to Montreal. We are excited to see Porter expand their network with a new route to Los Angeles, connecting two world-class cities and destinations beyond. Passengers will now have more options to travel between Southern California and Eastern Canada and can do so more sustainably on next-generation aircraft.”

    –       Michael Christensen, Chief Operations and Maintenance Officer, Los Angeles World Airports.

    About Porter

    Since 2006, Porter Airlines has been elevating the experience of economy air travel for every passenger, providing genuine hospitality with style, care and charm. Porter’s fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft serves a North American network from Eastern Canada. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®. Visit www.flyporter.com

  • Calgary’s Aerospace Innovation Hub propels forward with $3.9 million investment from OCIF

    AIH group shot 1920
    From left to right: Dr. Ed McCaulley, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Calgary; Chris Dinsdale, President & CEO, Calgary Airport Authority; Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek; Christian Novosel, Executive Vice President and Chief Digital Officer, WestJet; Neeraj Gupta, Co-founder, Chapter.AI Ventures; Dr. John Wilson, President & CEO, Innovate Calgary; Brad Parry, CEO, Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund, President & CEO, Calgary Economic Development, Kim Van Vliet, Director of the Aerospace Innovation Hub.

    March 11, 2024

    Calgary’s aerospace innovators will gain access to funding, business support and the ability to validate their technologies in real-world settings at the Aerospace Innovation Hub (AIH).

    This is enabled by an investment of $3.9 million over four years by the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF) into the AIH, managed by Innovate Calgary, and the participation of inaugural industry partners – WestJet, the Calgary Airport Authority and Chapter.ai Ventures.

    Building an environment where emerging sectors like aerospace grow, and Calgary companies accelerate and scale to compete globally is a priority in the economic strategy, Calgary in the New Economy.

    Aerospace and aviation sector taking off in Calgary 

    “Our aerospace sector is thriving, and we can ensure its continued growth by attracting the right talent and industry leaders to create and scale their ideas here in Calgary,” said Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “I look forward to seeing how Calgary-based innovators will emerge and transform the global aviation and aerospace industry.” 

    Between 2024 and 2028, the AIH is expected to support incubator programming for up to 180 companies and create 150 net new skilled, indirect jobs. As part of this, the AIH will directly fund six companies through the accelerator program aimed at upskilling and attracting talent to the province. 

    “By making this investment, we are fortifying Calgary as an aerospace centre of excellence,” said Brad Parry, CEO, Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund and President and CEO, Calgary Economic Development.  

    “Innovators will be able to create, test, and scale their ideas more effectively while existing industry players gain visibility and input into up-and-coming technologies. It’s a win-win for the sector and for the ongoing diversification of our economy.” 

    Through the provision of resources available from OCIF funding, the hub is expected to generate $1.5 million of research and development (“R&D”) and 40 patents supported through ElevateIP Alberta.

    Industry partners extend real-world application for aerospace entrepreneurs 

    The support and active involvement of inaugural industry partners ensures that innovators can create, test and scale new technologies and strategies in collaboration with industry. The AIH also enables existing companies to gain early visibility, provide feedback and partner with emerging solution providers to implement new technologies that address industry needs. 

    The Aerospace Innovation Hub joins the University of Calgary’s network of four themed innovation hubs managed by Innovate Calgary, including the Life Sciences Innovation Hub, the Energy Transition Centre and the Social Innovation Hub.  

    “This network ensures that researchers, innovators, and startup founders have seamless access to the resources, space, and expertise they require, precisely when they need it,” said Dr. Ed McCaulley, President & Vice-Chancellor at the University of Calgary. 

    “With this funding, we’re excited to bolster resources tailored specifically for aerospace and advanced manufacturing ventures, improving our position as a magnet for visionary businesses and innovators,” said McCaulley. 

    The Calgary Airport Authority will provide both a physical space for the AIH as well as opportunities for innovators to apply their solutions to real-world airport scenarios. 

    “Innovation plays a key role in the aviation industry, propelling advancements in safety, efficiency and guest experience to name a few,” said Chris Dinsdale, President & CEO, The Calgary Airport Authority. 

    “This collaboration reaffirms our commitment to elevate our guests’ experience through innovation, partnerships, and learning, as well as enhancing the airport ecosystem’s access to new technologies,” said Dinsdale. 

    WestJet will serve as the anchor airline company at the AIH, providing opportunities for innovators to apply their solutions to real-world airline scenarios. 

    “We’re absolutely thrilled to announce WestJet’s partnership in Calgary’s new Aerospace Innovation Hub. Having the AIH anchored at YYC, we are creating a “living lab” together with our partners that will unlock new opportunities and attract talent to our province, our hometown city and our airline,” said Christian Novosel, Executive Vice President and Chief Digital Officer at WestJet.

    Venture capital firm drawn to invest in Calgary’s aerospace innovation scene 

    A venture capital firm new to Calgary, Chapter.ai Ventures, will provide access to capital and investment support for innovators to create and scale their solutions. 

    “Chapter.ai Ventures is very excited to be part of the Aerospace Hub and plans to significantly invest in aerospace startups,” said Neeraj Gupta, Co-Founder of Chapter.ai Ventures.  

    “Calgary’s unique industrial, deep technologies and research ecosystem will help the Aerospace hub to establish itself as one of the prominent players in the global aerospace ecosystem,” said Gupta. 

    The new investment from OCIF, along with the participation of formal industry partners, enhances the initial funding commitment of over $2.5 million from PrairiesCan to the Aerospace Innovation Hub. This was originally announced in June 2023.

    The AIH is currently accepting new companies looking to expand to or within Calgary.

    Entrepreneurs, start-ups, scale-ups and large corporate partners from aerospace and advanced manufacturing sectors are invited to join the AIH, adding their ideas and expertise to build a world-renowned aerospace hub. 

    Discover how the Opportunity Calgary Investment Firm is acting as a catalyst to drive investment, innovation and economic development in Calgary.

    Learn more about Calgary’s aerospace sector, and dive deeper into Calgary’s tech ecosystem at LiveTechLoveLife.com.  

  • Saskatoon YXE Awarded Best Airport in North America

    11 March 2024 – Saskatoon, SK: YXE Saskatoon Airport (YXE) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded the Airport Council International (ACI)’s Airport Service Quality (ASQ) award for the Best Airport in North America under 2 Million Passengers in 2023.

    The ACI Airport Service Quality (ASQ) programme stands out as the preeminent airport customer experience measurement and benchmarking program globally, distinguished by its unwavering commitment to a rigorous and scientific methodology. Unlike other programs in the aviation industry, ASQ’s approach is anchored in live research conducted through surveys administered directly to travellers at the airport, capturing their satisfaction levels on the very day of travel.

    The ASQ Surveys cover over 30 performance indicators across key elements of the passenger’s airport experience, giving the most complete picture of the passenger experience journey. This distinctive methodology is renowned for its robustness, enabling meaningful statistical inference and providing unparalleled insights into the passenger experience.

    “YXE Saskatoon Airport is committed to service quality,” says Stephen Maybury, President and CEO of Saskatoon Airport Authority. “Together with our airport partners, we strive to continuously improve our guest experience to fulfill our vision to be the most valued airport experience in Canada.”

    “The Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards is a unique achievement of airport customer experience excellence as selected by passengers themselves,” says Luis Felipe de Oliveira, Director General, ACI World. “Congratulations to YXE Saskatoon Airport for embracing this distinction and showcasing what sets you apart.”

    About YXE Saskatoon Airport

    YXE Saskatoon Airport is operated by Saskatoon Airport Authority. YXE Saskatoon Airport is a partner in developing Saskatoon and Saskatchewan by delivering the most valued airport experience in Canada.

  • Fort McMurray International Airport Wins Four 2023 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards

    March 11, 2024

    Passengers vote YMM as best airport in four categories                             

    Fort McMurray, AB – Airports Council International (ACI) World has announced Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) as the winner of four 2023 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards.

    YMM won in the following categories for exceptional customer service:

    • Best Airport <2 Million Passengers in North America (NA)
    • Easiest Airport Journey in NA
    • Most Enjoyable Airport in NA
    • Cleanest Airport in NA

    Launched in 2006, ASQ is the world’s leading airport passenger satisfaction program with close to 400 participating airports in 95 countries. ACI World’s annual ASQ Awards recognize airport excellence in customer experience worldwide based on data from ASQ’s renowned Departures and Arrivals Surveys. ACI World delivers the ASQ Awards in partnership with Amadeus, one of the world’s top ten travel technology companies.

    “I couldn’t be happier to receive this news,” says Denean Robinson, President & CEO, Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “Team YMM works hard to offer the best passenger experience possible to our guests, and these awards recognize our efforts! The ASQ Awards put YMM on a world stage, alongside the best in the industry. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this significant accomplishment,” says Robinson.

    “I am thrilled to see YMM recognized for their exceptional customer experience, says Luis Felipe de Oliveira, Director General, ACI World. “Winning in the ASQ Awards is a testament to YMM’s entire team’s hard work and dedication for the benefit of travellers and communities.”

    “We congratulate everyone at YMM for their role in achieving these well-deserved awards,” says Mayor Sandy Bowman. “YMM is a great asset for the entire region, and it comes as no surprise that it is again being recognized for its efforts in delivering great experiences to residents and visitors.”

    ACI World and Amadeus will celebrate the 2023 ASQ Awards winners and the ACI World Director General’s Roll of Excellence inductees at the 2024 ACI World Customer Experience Summit and Exhibition, from 23 to 26 September in Atlanta, USA. Robinson will be in attendance to accept the awards on behalf of YMM.

    About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com  

    Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA), connecting the World to the Wood Buffalo Region. FMAA is a community-based, non-share capital organization. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic output of over $354 million and supporting over 70 businesses on airport campus and approximately 900 jobs.  

  • Toronto Pearson reclaims prestigious ranking as ‘Best Airport over 40 million passengers in North America’

    TORONTO, March 11, 2024 /CNW/ – Toronto Pearson has been named the “Best Airport over 40 million passengers in North America” for the sixth time in seven years by Airports Council International (ACI) – World, the global trade representative of the world’s airports. This prestigious award, recognized and coveted by airports around the world, is part of ACI World’s Airport Service Quality (ASQ) program, which recognizes airports delivering the best experience for their passengers.

    The ASQ program is rooted in rigorous scientific methodology that analyses data from passengers who have directly passed through Toronto Pearson, which is more accurate than other surveys that weights feedback from travellers who may not have come to our airport. The ASQ program’s intention is to provide science-based data to enable thousands of airports across the world to continually improve and adapt to increase the quality and consistency of the customer experience.

    “The results of this year’s survey and this award is the outcome of the collective hard work from all our employees, to deliver in new ways that heighten the reliability and enjoyment of the experience at Pearson,” said Deborah Flint, President and CEO, Toronto Pearson. “We see the results of our investments in people, assets, and technology that enhanced operations and improved every part of the passenger journey. Whether it’s launching new digital tools to give our customers more control over their experience, to deploying new modernized equipment and completing more asset restoration programs, this is all part of our commitment to providing passengers with a world-class experience – and we are excited to deliver even more in the years ahead.”

    Toronto Pearson also introduced The Pearson Standard in 2023, a program that formalizes accountabilities for airport partners and ourselves in order hold everyone to a wide range of operational standards. The guidance and expectations that we set out are essential to drive operational efficiencies.

    Toronto Pearson regained the ranking in 2023 after winning “Best Airport over 40 million passengers in North America” for five consecutive years between 2017 and 2021.

    “The (ASQ) Awards celebrate more than outstanding customer experience; it recognizes the innovation and dedication of your entire airport team. Congratulations to Toronto Pearson for your hard work that is redefining the airport experience,” said Luis Felipe de Oliveira, Director General, ACI World. “Your dedication to excellence in customer experience sets a benchmark for airports worldwide! Keep setting the bar high.”

    This award also comes just weeks after Toronto Pearson rejoined the ranks in Forbes’ list of “Canada’s Best Employers” in 2024, which ranks the best 300 Canadian employers identified by their independent survey. Toronto Pearson ranked number 210 overall and was ninth among all Transportation and Logistics companies included in the list. 

    About Toronto Pearson 

    The Greater Toronto Airports Authority is the operator of Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada’s largest airport and a vital connector of people, businesses and goods.   

    Toronto Pearson was named “Best Airport over 40 million passengers in North America’” in 2023 by Airports Council International (ACI), the global trade representative of the world’s airports, after winning the award five years running between 2017 and 2021. Toronto Pearson was also recognized in 2024 as one of “Canada’s Best Employers” by Forbes.

  • Toronto Pearson’s top tips for passengers ahead of busy March Break travel week

    TORONTO, March 5, 2024 /CNW/ – Toronto Pearson is gearing up for one of the busiest travel weeks of the year, as hundreds of thousands of people prepare to fly during March Break. 

    The March Break week has always been one of the busiest travel times of the year at Pearson Airport, and 2024 is no exception. Up to 140,000 people are expected to pass through our airport per day, which is up nearly 10 per cent from 2023 passenger levels. During the busiest points of the week, nearly 1,000 flights will take off and land per day.

    For travellers looking to enhance and take control of their airport experience, Toronto Pearson recommends using the following digital tools:

    • YYZ Express, an online reservation program that allows travellers to book a spot in the security line ahead of their flight, up to 72 hours in advance. Passengers with reservations are able to breeze through shorter security lines.
    • Mobile Passport Control, an app introduced by United States Customs and Border Protection that allows travellers to digitally submit their information for a smoother departures experience if they’re travelling to the US.  
    • Avoid traffic congestion curbside at the terminals by dropping off passengers at Viscount station. The station, which is located just outside the airport, is a great connection point by a quick train ride. Drop-off is easy and quick—leading passengers right into Terminal 1 and 3 for free.
    • A live wait times dashboard provides travellers with real-time information ahead of arriving at the airport. This gives passengers information about what to expect before arriving at the airport.
    • A peak travel times dashboard shows if you will be passing through the airport during a busy period.  
    • Advance Declaration continues to be offered by Canada Border Services Agency, which lets travellers submit their customs and immigration declaration up to 72 hours in advance of flying into Canada, giving them a faster border experience and saving them time at Pearson. Passengers who complete Advance Declaration will have access to an Express Lane in the customs area.   
    • Register online to park your car at Toronto Pearson, which helps to guarantee your spot ahead of time
    • Don’t forget to follow us on X for any major operational updates. 

    Even though the Greater Toronto Area has had a mild winter so far, unexpected winter weather can quickly impact travel. Make sure to check the weather forecast and with your airline ahead of your flight and be prepared in case plans are affected.

    To keep families entertained over March Break, Toronto Pearson will also be offering activities, including magic shows, a live pianist, and colouring books and crayons at information desks within the terminals.

    About Toronto Pearson       

    The Greater Toronto Airports Authority is the operator of Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada’s largest airport and a vital connector of people, businesses and goods.      

    Toronto Pearson has been named “Best Large Airport in North America serving more than 40 million passengers” for five years in a row by Airports Council International (ACI), the global trade representative of the world’s airports. In recognition of its Healthy Airport program, ACI has also awarded Toronto Pearson the “Best hygiene measures in North America” award for three years running, and Toronto Pearson was the first Canadian airport to receive ACI’s global health accreditation for its response to COVID-19.     

  • From the runway to the Strip with Porter’s inaugural Las Vegas flight 

    TORONTO, March 5, 2024 /CNW/ – Porter Airlines is celebrating the inauguration of daily roundtrip flights between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) today.

    Porter Airlines is celebrating the inauguration of daily roundtrip flights between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) today. (CNW Group/Porter Airlines Inc.)

    Passengers begin their trip in style with Porter’s elevated in-flight experience, which includes complimentary beer and wine served in real glassware, free premium snacks, and free WiFi, available to all travellers. Everyone can stream their favourite content or access Porter’s inflight entertainment portal on their personal devices.

    Fresh, healthy meals, pre-mixed cocktails and additional snack options are also available on the new Las Vegas-Toronto Pearson route. Passengers can enjoy these additional features, either as part of PorterReserve all-inclusive fares or for purchase à la carte in PorterClassic.

    The route is operated by the Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, featuring a 132-seat, all-economy, two-by-two configuration. There are no middle seats on any Porter flight.

    The initial flight schedule is as follows:

    RouteDepartureArrival
    Toronto-Pearson (YYZ) to Las Vegas (LAS)1:00 p.m.3:04 p.m.
    Las Vegas (LAS) to Toronto-Pearson (YYZ)4:00 p.m.11:16 p.m.
    All times are local

    Las Vegas has earned the title ‘entertainment capital of the world’ by offering something for every type of traveller, including magnificent hotels and casinos, world-class shows and events, a diverse food scene and more.

    Detailed flight schedules are available on www.flyporter.com. 

    Quotes

    “This new route adds to our growing list of Western U.S. destinations and only Porter provides an elevated level of service and commitment to comfort for all economy passengers. Travellers will experience the difference the moment they step on board our aircraft.”
         –       Kevin Jackson, president, Porter Airlines

    “Harry Reid International Airport is excited to welcome Porter Airlines, and its daily, nonstop service from Toronto. We know that Canadians love flying to Las Vegas, and the addition of Porter provides yet another convenient option for these travellers.”
         –       Rosemary Vassiliadis, Clark County director of aviation

    “We are thrilled that this new direct flight from Toronto with Porter Airlines will give Canadians another convenient option to travel to Las Vegas,” said “Porter Airlines in Las Vegas is a natural fit. Just like the airline has no middle seats on their flights, there are no ‘middle seat’ experiences in Las Vegas. From our A-list entertainment, world-class dining options, a full calendar of sporting events and an endless array of experiences, only the extraordinary can be here.”
         –       Kate Wik, chief marketing officer for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority

     “On behalf of the Government of Canada, I am pleased to congratulate Porter Airlines on its new Toronto Pearson to Las Vegas Harry Reid airport route. This route is another great connection between two tourism powerhouses – both cities share incredibly diverse culinary scenes, vibrant arts and culture attractions, and live entertainment. The route will support the 1.4 million Canadian tourists that visit Las Vegas annually and will facilitate strong business connections, particularly given prominent Canadian investments in Nevada and Las Vegas’ leading role as a location for international conferences, events and business development.”
         –       Zaib Shaikh, Consul General of Canada in Los Angeles

    About Porter

    Since 2006, Porter Airlines has been elevating the experience of economy air travel for every passenger, providing genuine hospitality with style, care and charm. Porter’s fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft serves a North American network from Eastern Canada. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®. Visit www.flyporter.com 

  • WestJet celebrates a decade of flying to Europe with the restart of service between Toronto and Dublin 

    Return of service reignites two-way tourism opportunities

    TORONTO, March 2, 2024 /CNW/ – WestJet is celebrating the return of transatlantic flying between Eastern Canada and Europe following the touchdown of WestJet flight WS34 between Toronto Pearson International Airport and Dublin International Airport. As Canada’s coast-to-coast leisure travel champion, the daily summer seasonal service reaffirms WestJet’s commitment to transatlantic connectivity to and from Eastern Canada.

    This summer also marks the 10-year anniversary of WestJet’s entry into Europe, commemorating the airline’s inaugural transatlantic flight between St. John’s and Dublin in 2014.

    “Service between Toronto and Dublin continues be an important part of WestJet’s story, and we celebrate a decade of service that has strengthened ties between our two countries,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “The return of daily seasonal service between Toronto and Dublin gives Canadians the opportunity to immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes, rich culture and warm hospitality of Ireland with the convenience and affordability WestJet is known for.”

    RouteFrequency   Service start
    date    		Service end
    date    		Departure
    time (local)       		Arrival
    time (local)   
    Toronto – Dublin   DailyMarch 1           Oct. 13            10:45 p.m.10:55 a.m.
    Dublin – TorontoDailyMarch 2Oct. 1412:15 p.m.3:00 p.m.

    “As the gateway to Europe, direct flights between Canada and Ireland have revolutionized the tourism landscape, making it easier than ever for travellers to explore the enchanting beauty and rich heritage of Ireland. This 10-year milestone represents not just a connection between our two nations, but an invitation for travellers to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and warm hospitality that we have to offer. As we celebrate this achievement, we look forward to welcoming even more visitors to experience the magic of Ireland firsthand and create lasting memories that will inspire future travel,” says Tourism Ireland Country Manager Sandra Moffatt.

    As WestJet continues to lead in leisure, the airline is pleased to reconnect three major eastern Canadian cities to key European destinations this summer, with additional previously announced service offerings.

    RoutePeak
    frequency       		Service
    start
    date    		Service
    end
    date    		Departure
    time
    (local)       		Arrival
    time
    (local)   
    Halifax-Dublin4x weeklyJune 19   Oct. 13    10:30 p.m.   7:55 a.m.
    Dublin-Halifax4x weeklyJune 20Oct. 149:30 a.m.11:38 a.m.   
    Halifax-Edinburgh*3x weeklyJune 20Oct. 1210:40 p.m.8:15 a.m.
    Edinburgh-Halifax3x weeklyJune 21Oct. 139:35 a.m.11:41 a.m.
    Halifax-London (Gatwick)4x weeklyApril 28Oct. 2511:00 p.m.9:00 a.m.
    London (Gatwick)-Halifax4x weeklyApril 29Oct. 2611:00 a.m.1:46 p.m.
    Toronto-EdinburghDailyMay 14Oct. 1210:10 p.m.10:00 a.m.
    Edinburgh-TorontoDailyMay 15Oct. 1311:20 a.m.1:54 p.m.
    St. John’s-London (Gatwick)3x weeklyMay 1Oct. 2512:15 a.m.9:00 a.m.
    London (Gatwick)-St. John’s   3x weeklyMay 1Oct. 2511:00 a.m.1:10 p.m.

    More information about WestJet’s summer schedule can be found at WestJet.com.

    About WestJet

    In 27 years of serving Canadians, WestJet has cut airfares in half and increased the flying population in Canada to more than 50 per cent. WestJet launched in 1996 with three aircraft, 250 employees and five destinations, growing over the years to more than 180 aircraft, 14,000 employees and more than 100 destinations in 26 countries.

    For more information about everything WestJet, please visit westjet.com.