Air Canada’s range of innovative human resources initiatives includes languages training, a buddy system to help young professionals integrate into the organization, and ongoing engagement events throughout the year

MONTRÉAL, Jan. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Air Canada has been named for the third consecutive year, one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People 2026 by Mediacorp. The award affirms the company’s strong commitment to fostering meaningful opportunities that help the next generation thrive and build their future leadership potential.

“We are very proud of our progressive HR programs, which again have earned Air Canada recognition as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People. We’re encouraged to see so many young people choosing careers in the aviation industry! There has never been a more exciting time to build a future in this field, especially as Air Canada embarks on our New Frontiers growth phase. To support delivering our strategic plans, Air Canada has invested in continually evolving programs to develop and support the cross-functional skills required for the next generation to lead in the future,” said Arielle Meloul-Wechsler, Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer and Public Affairs at Air Canada.

Air Canada is proud to offer paid internship programs in a variety of disciplines with numerous professional development opportunities. The airline also maintains the Work Integrated Learning Program, which aims to expand the organization’s talent pool by offering work experience opportunities to post-secondary students from universities across Canada. The organization welcomed over 100 interns across various branches during the past year, providing students with practical skills and work experience.

A unique benefit available for students is access to online training options including opportunities to strengthen second language skills and learn more about diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as workshops held with the talent team, covering topics such as optimizing CVs and LinkedIn profiles, and preparing for interviews.

Air Canada also offers a buddy system to help young professionals joining the airline integrate into the organization. The airline promotes ongoing engagement through various events throughout the year, including in-person networking opportunities at the organization’s training centre, museum and hangar, as well as a career orientation event that provides an overview of available career paths and professional development opportunities.

About the Top Employer Awards

Each employer was evaluated by the editors of Canada’s Top 100 Employers based on the programs they offer to attract and retain younger workers. These include benefits such as tuition assistance and the availability of co-op or work-study programs, mentorship and training programs, career management programs, such as initiatives that can help younger workers advance more quickly within the organization.

Individuals interested in taking their careers to new heights with Air Canada can learn more about current opportunities here.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Headquartered in Montréal, Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million members worldwide. Members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers more travel choices than any other Canadian tour operator to hundreds of destinations worldwide, with a wide selection of hotels, flights, cruises, day tours, and car rentals. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. 

19 January 2026

Vancouver, BC–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The Air Canada Component of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) has begun its first day of arbitration with Air Canada and Arbitrator Paula Knopf to settle wages after flight attendants voted over 99% to reject Air Canada’s final wage offer in September 2025.

“These hearings will provide our members an opportunity to hear the facts around what transpired in the negotiations spanning December 2024 to August 2025, and also a sense of what to expect from the process going forward,” said Component President Wesley Lesosky.

“It will also give our members an opportunity to hear the extent to which Air Canada values our members and the vital, safety-critical work they do every day.”

In August 2025, Air Canada sought and obtained the support of the federal government to strip Air Canada flight attendants of their Charter right to strike for better working conditions. Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau admitted on live television that Air Canada did not make contingency plans for a strike, because they anticipated federal intervention to quash any job action on its behalf.

However, flight attendants defied the federal government’s back-to-work order, prompting Air Canada back to the bargaining table where a stronger offer on ground pay was achieved, but Air Canada refused to budge on their previous positions on hourly rates of pay. The parties agreed to move the final question of wages to arbitration.

“The fact that we are here is a testament to the courage of our members,” said Lesosky. “We refused to back down when a multi-billion-dollar company and their enforcers in the federal government tried to put their boots on our necks.”

“We achieved a better deal because of the bravery of our flight attendants, and we are hopeful we will make our case before the arbitrator that our members deserve better than the poverty wages offered by our employer.”

• Air Canada launches new #FlyTheFlag spot featuring Paralympian Tyler McGregor
• Airline prepared to transport more than 750 Team Canada athletes and delegates
• Its people will go above and beyond in taking care of Team Canada as they travel to and from Italy

MONTRÉAL, Jan. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games draw closer, Air Canada released today a new brand spot featuring Team Air Canada Athlete Ambassador Tyler McGregor, captain of Canada’s Para ice hockey team, as he prepares for the Games.

Entitled Tyler’s Walk, the spot tells the story of McGregor’s resilience after a life-changing event, bringing to light the obstacles Team Canada athletes must overcome in pursuit of their dreams – and one athlete’s unwavering commitment to sporting excellence.

“Hockey has always been a part of my life, and this is a reminder of the sheer grit and determination it has taken to get here,” says McGregor. “It’s an honour to have the chance to tell my story and shine a light on the passion and hard work that goes into wearing the maple leaf – not just during the Games, but every day.”

“We are immensely proud of Tyler’s Walk, which serves as a powerful reminder that the journey to greatness is often marked by incredible obstacles, and also extraordinary triumphs,” said Martine Boulerice, Director, Brand Marketing – Sponsorships, Events & Quebec at Air Canada. “This campaign represents more than just Tyler’s story, it’s about inspiring Canadians to believe in what’s possible, no matter the challenges they face.”

Supporting Canada’s Athletes from Preparation to Performance

Every journey to the Games is powered by the dedication of thousands of Air Canada employees, on the front lines and behind the scenes, coming together to support Team Canada. Through the employee-driven Going for Gold program, Air Canada’s people are looking after more than 750 athletes, coaches, and delegation members on their journey to and from Italy—so they can focus on competing when it matters most.

This commitment is an immense source of pride for everyone at Air Canada. At each Games, people across the airline’s network work side by side to co-ordinate athlete travel across multiple airports and teams and support the specialized handling of sports equipment and mobility devices. This effort involves more than 10,000 employees across more than 23 airports working in concert to help ensure smooth, seamless journeys for Team Canada. Air Canada has served as the Official Airline of the Canadian Olympic Team since 1988 and the Canadian Paralympic Team since 2007.

Bringing Fans Closer to the Excitement of Team Canada’s Journey

In just 10 days, Team Canada athletes and delegates will begin their journey to Milano Cortina to represent the country at the pinnacle of international sport. Upon arrival at YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, they’ll be welcomed by Air Canada employees at the send-off event, featuring live entertainment, interactive experiences, and moments of national pride before the delegation departs for Italy.

From then, all airports across the country will be mobilized to offer a heartwarming welcome to all athletes and delegation members starting their journey to the Games, distributing a care package to enhance their comfort during travel.

“Every journey to the Games carries the pride of an entire country – and for us, that responsibility goes beyond getting Team Canada to the start line,” said Boulerice. “As the official airline of Team Canada, we’re honoured to support Olympians and Paralympians on their way to Milano Cortina 2026, and proud to bring fans along through stories, behind-the-scenes content, and experiences that put Canadians at the centre of the action.”

To further connect Canadians to the excitement in the lead-up to the Games, the airline’s Team Air Canada Athlete Ambassadors will take centre stage across a nationwide content and fan engagement program. A series of digital campaigns – including travel guides, behind-the-scenes features, and personal storytelling – will spotlight ambassadors’ routes, favourite places, and experiences on the road to the Games.

In addition, Air Canada will launch a national contest inspired by Team Air Canada Athletes Ambassadors’ most-loved destinations, offering fans the chance to win trips that reflect the places and moments that shape their journeys.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Headquartered in Montréal, Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million members worldwide. Members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers more travel choices than any other Canadian tour operator to hundreds of destinations worldwide, with a wide selection of hotels, flights, cruises, day tours, and car rentals. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

• Airline bringing festive cheer to customers on more than 18,000 flights to over 180 destinations worldwide over the holiday season
• Air Canada teams across the world are ready to go above and beyond to make journeys as smooth as possible, with extra attention for customers with accessibility needs and minors travelling unaccompanied
• Additional airport support, including personalized care and seasonal surprises, combines with digital tools to make travel easier and more enjoyable

MONTRÉAL, December 18, 2025 – ’Tis the season for making memories, and for more than 2.3 million Air Canada customers, that starts the moment they arrive at the airport. Between December 18 and January 4, the airline expects to welcome close to 130,000 customers a day – surpassing 140,000 during peak periods – in one of its busiest travel weeks of the year.

Holiday Hospitality at Every Step of the Journey

“At Air Canada, the customer experience is at the core of everything we do, and we know that at this busy time of year and with unpredictable weather, holiday travel is exciting but can also be stressful,” says Tom Stevens, Vice President of Customer Experience and Service Operations. “Our teams are here to provide attentive care and help customers feels confident and comfortable throughout their journey. Especially our customers who may need an extra helping hand – whether that’s families with young children, or our customers with accessibility needs.”

The warm welcome for customers starts with our airline agents, there to help navigate the busy terminals – whether it’s directions to restrooms, charging stations, our lounges or simply offering an extra set of hands. And if it’s extra fuel you need, stop and say hi and grab a complimentary festive snack across many of our Canadian airports between December 18 and 24. The team will be handing out a selection of our onboard treats like LeClerc Célébration Cookies and TWIGZ buttery herb and garlic pretzels.

Earlier this month, Air Canada’s team members kicked off their efforts and surprised customers at Montréal-Trudeau International Airport with thoughtful gifts for the holiday season. See the smiles these surprises brought in this holiday video.

Innovations Making Every Journey Smoother

From major investments in aircraft cabins, new technology, and frontline training, the airline continues to transform the Air Canada travel experience. In 2025, Air Canada rolled out upgrades designed to boost comfort and confidence, including fast, free Wi-Fi for Aeroplan Members sponsored by Bell on North American and Sun routes, complimentary beer, wine and premium snacks – including non-alcoholic Heineken 0.0 – and new Air Canada Cafés at Montréal-Trudeau and Vancouver domestic terminals for a relaxed way to grab a pre-flight coffee or snack.

The Air Canada mobile app offers customers day-of-travel updates, with flight status, gate changes, and real-time baggage tracking helping them feel more in control of their trip. This includes a new tool that puts a human face to the hardworking employees loading and unloading customer baggage.

As always, Air Canada offers priority assistance for families, and customers with accessibility requirements. From contact centre agents and gate staff to cabin crews and baggage handlers, airline teams are committed to supporting every customer’s needs – whether that’s helping children travelling alone, assisting with tight connections, or ensuring smooth travel for those with accessibility requirements. The airline’s three-year Accessibility Plan, launched in 2023, guides ongoing investments and training to make travel more inclusive and seamless for all customers.

Seasonal Flavours on the Ground and in the Air

Air Canada is delivering a feast of festive flavours at airline lounges and in-flight. In select Maple Leaf Lounges, customers can enjoy curated regional Canadian favourites, from oven-roasted turkey to Beef Provençale, tourtière du Québec, pomegranate-roasted root vegetables and ragoût de boulettes d’antan. Guests can also indulge in classic holiday desserts such as gingerbread cookies, yule logs, panettone, and more.

The airline is also adding festive touches to menus in all cabins throughout December. On select Air Canada international outbound flights, customers can look forward to:

• Economy: Red velvet cookies, and broccoli and cranberry salad
• Premium Economy: Hot chocolate, TWIGZ Cinnamon Churro pretzels, and broccoli and cranberry salad
• Air Canada Signature Class: Festive turkey roulade meal, cranberry Aperol spritz, and San Sebastian cheesecake with cranberry and orange compote

Beyond festive food and drink offerings, Air Canada is bringing extra holiday cheer to make the journey feel special for all customers. On December 25, children 12 and under on select routes may receive a Lindt teddy bear – a small keepsake to start their journey with a smile. For cozy, fun-filled moments in the air, customers can choose from more than 50 holiday-themed titles on Air Canada’s award-winning in-flight entertainment system, including The Holdovers, 23 décembre, Home Alone, La Guerre des Tuques and The Polar Express.

Raising the Bar on Air Canada Travel in 2026

Beyond the holiday season, Air Canada is looking forward to an exciting 2026, with new routes connecting customers to even more destinations, new aircraft featuring redesigned cabins for elevated comfort, and a range of new customer-focused products and services designed to make every journey smoother and more enjoyable.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Headquartered in Montréal, Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million members worldwide. Members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers more travel choices than any other Canadian tour operator to hundreds of destinations worldwide, with a wide selection of hotels, flights, cruises, day tours, and car rentals. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

• Over 12 new international destinations launched in 2025, 7 already announced for 2026
• New on-board additions such as fast, free Wi-Fi* in North America, complimentary beer and wine for all customers and premium snacks

MONTREAL, Dec. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As 2025 draws to a close, Air Canada reflects on a year marked by significant achievements and milestones. With gratitude for the loyalty of its customers, the dedicated professionalism of its employees and the support of its partners, Air Canada celebrates its global leadership. This is captured in the airline’s 12 Days of Cheer video, which also underscores Air Canada’s commitment to building on its successes as it looks ahead to a bright 2026.

“As we reflect on the year, we are deeply appreciative of our customers’ loyalty and the dedication of our employees, who represent the very best of Canada around the world. We were able to achieve so many meaningful milestones, from further expanding our network to enhancing customer service and strengthening our community ties,” said Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive Officer at Air Canada. “Our 12 Days of Cheer video highlights some of these accomplishments, and, on behalf of our 40,000 employees worldwide, I wish you the best of the season. We look forward to welcoming our customers onboard this holiday season and throughout 2026.”

Air Canada toasts 2025 with 12 Days of Cheer:

• 12 (+1) new routes to Latin America

Earlier this year Air Canada announced a significant expansion of its schedule to Latin America starting this winter with four new destinations, 13 new routes and 16 per cent more capacity.

• 11= 6 years of 5 stars at the APEX Awards

In September, the airline proudly received, for the sixth consecutive year, a Five Star Global Airline Award at the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) 2026 Awards. In addition, its onboard Wi-Fi sponsored by Bell, which is complimentary for Aeroplan Members, was ranked by APEX as the Best Inflight Connectivity. The awards were based on votes from over 1 million customers.

• 10 million Aeroplan Members

Air Canada’s loyalty program, Aeroplan, passed a historic milestone in 2025: it reached 10 million members! This year, Aeroplan also expanded its reach through a series of new partnerships designed to make loyalty more rewarding and versatile.

• 9 hundred pieces of eGSE equipment

The Québec City station became Air Canada’s first with fully electric, main ground support equipment. Since the announcement in April, the airline has achieved 100 per cent electrification of our GSE fleet across all main categories. This completed a transition from fossil fuel-powered equipment to electric alternatives for all baggage and ramp tractors, belt loaders, power stows, container loaders and aircraft tractors at YQB.

• 8 Dreams Take Flight trips

Dreams Take Flight, Air Canada and the Air Canada Foundation celebrated another successful year of magical journeys to theme parks in Florida and California. This year, more than a thousand children across Canada experienced a day full of rides, magic and laughter through the program.

• 7 new international destinations announced for 2026

In 2025, the airline launched 12 new international destinations, including to Manila, Philippines and announced seven more for 2026 such as Montréal–Berlin, Montréal–Palma de Mallorca, Montréal–Nantes, and Toronto–Ponta Delgada. These additions strengthen Air Canada’s position as one of North America’s largest transatlantic carriers while offering customers more leisure and business travel options.

• 6+ choices of premium snacks on-board

This year, Air Canada raised the bar on the Economy travel experience by expanding their complimentary beer, wine, and exclusive Canadian-made snacks to all customers on all flights, including routes to Mexico and the Caribbean. Most recently, the airline added Canadian favourites MadeGood Mornings Cinnamon Bun Soft Baked Oat Bars and Greenhouse Ginger Defence Wellness Shots to its onboard offering.

• 5 decades of Air Canada Vacations

Starting the year with a celebration: Tour operator Air Canada Vacations celebrated 50 years of making dreams travel last winter.

• 4 awards for our company culture

Air Canada was recognized as one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers for 2025 for the seventh time in 10 years. Moreover, it was named one of Montreal’s Top Employers for the 12th consecutive year and one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People 2025 for the second consecutive year. Air Canada also was awarded with the Best DE&I Strategy for Mental Health and its employee wellness program, Unlock the Best in You (UBY), was awarded the Best Global Mental Health Programme for the second year in a row from InsideOut Awards.

• 3 times in the Top 3 of Cirium’s On-Time Performance Among North American Carriers Monthly report

In 2025, Air Canada delivered one of its strongest on-time-performances (OTP), ranking in the Top 3 for three months, two of which saw the airline ranked first in North America by the aviation analytics firm Cirium. For 2025, Air Canada has improved its OTP by three-percentage points compared to 2024, reflecting the hard work of employees and investments in technology, scheduling, and operational efficiency.

• 2 new Air Canada Café openings

Air Canada opened two new domestic-side Café locations to its customers in 2025: one at Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, one in Vancouver International Airport. Thoughtfully designed environment for customers to grab a bite, work and recharge before their flight, both Café locations feature a curated menu, blending local flavours with modern amenities.

• #1 Best Airline in North America at the Skytrax Awards

Air Canada was named the Best Airline in North America at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards. Presented at the Paris Air Show, the Skytrax awards, which are based on customer satisfaction surveys of approximately 22 million global travellers, also recognized the Toronto Air Canada Signature Suite as the World’s Best Business Class Lounge Dining for the second straight year, as well as its flight attendants as Best Cabin Crew in Canada and North America. Air Canada also took home additional honours for the Best Low-Cost Airline in Canada for its Rouge subsidiary, Most Family Friendly Airline in North America, Best Premium Economy Class Onboard Catering in North America, Best Business Class Onboard Catering in North America, and Best Business Class Lounge in North America.

_{*Sponsored by Bell}

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Headquartered in Montréal, Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million members worldwide. Members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers more travel choices than any other Canadian tour operator to hundreds of destinations worldwide, with a wide selection of hotels, flights, cruises, day tours, and car rentals. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

10 December 2025

• Heartwarming new live-action holiday spot follows a seven-year-old from Akwesasne Kanien’kehà:ka Nation on a life-changing trip to Walt Disney World Resort
• Dreams Take Flight, supported by the Air Canada Foundation, Air Canada employees and retirees, volunteers and sponsors, has created unforgettable memories for kids for more than 35 years
• This year’s holiday spot pays tribute to the people behind the organization’s success and their commitment to creating life-changing experiences for children who have been through so much

MONTRÉAL, December 10, 2025 – In keeping with tradition, Air Canada is celebrating the holiday season with a heartwarming new spot, Holiday Dreams Take Flight. This year’s live-action spot focuses on Dreams Take Flight, a long-running initiative powered by Air Canada employees, volunteers, sponsors and the Air Canada Foundation. Holiday Dreams Take Flight launches today in multiple forms. A combination of 90-second, 30-second and 15-second versions will be shown on social media and digital platforms.

The video follows Kaiennenhawi (Hawi), a seven-year-old girl from the Kanien’kehà:ka community of Akwesasne, on a life-changing journey. From the thrill of boarding her first flight to the wonder of exploring Walt Disney World Resort, Hawi’s experience unfolds in a series of joyful moments that highlight how Dreams Take Flight creates unforgettable memories for deserving children.

“We pour our heart and soul into every holiday spot we make – and this one has extra special meaning for all of us at Air Canada,” says John Xydous – Director, Brand Strategy & Content Marketing at Air Canada. “With Holiday Dreams Take Flight, we’re showcasing the trips we’re proud to help make possible for more than a thousand children each year, while paying tribute to the many employees and volunteers, both active and retired, who continue to donate their time and energy to Dreams Take Flight.”

For more than 35 years, Dreams Take Flight has given thousands of children aged six to 13 facing physical, mental or social adversity the chance to take a dream trip to incredible destinations, such as Walt Disney World Resort. Eight annual charity-chartered flights depart from cities across Canada, providing participants with an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, wonder and adventure.

The initiative is 100 per cent volunteer driven, with thousands of Air Canada employees at the forefront. From flight crews decorating aircraft to volunteers planning every detail on the ground, teams work tirelessly all year long to ensure every child feels safe, celebrated, and supported throughout the journey. As proud partners, Air Canada and the Air Canada Foundation provide each chapter with an aircraft, along with additional support and services, to ensure every trip is a success.

This busy holiday season, Air Canada expects to welcome more than a million customers onto over 5,000 flights to 180+ destinations worldwide. From serving festive holiday meals in airport lounges and on select flights between December 24 and 25, to adding seasonal touches at airports and onboard, Air Canada teams are focused on making every holiday journey feel special and exciting for customers and families. The airline has also expanded its in-flight entertainment selection to include a wider range of holiday films, giving customers more ways to relax and enjoy the season while in the air.

About the Air Canada Foundation

The Air Canada Foundation, a not-for-profit organization focused on the health and well-being of children and youth, was launched in 2012. It offers both financial and in-kind support to Canadian-registered charities. Core programs include the Hospital Transportation Program, which redistributes Aeroplan points to 15 pediatric hospitals across Canada, enabling sick children to access the medical care they need away from home. The Air Canada Foundation, in collaboration with the airline, also engages directly in fundraising activities, such as the Every Bit Counts program, which encourages customers to donate loose change of all denominations on board flights or through collection containers available in Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges. The Foundation also offers continued support to major health-related causes that benefit Canadians and is an active participant in international humanitarian relief activity as the need arises. For more information about the Air Canada Foundation, please read the 2024 Impact Report.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, where members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers more travel choices than any other Canadian tour operator to hundreds of destinations worldwide, with a wide selection of hotels, flights, cruises, day tours, and car rentals. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Star Alliance has once again been recognised as the World’s Leading Airline Alliance at the World Travel Awards 2025, continuing its six-year winning streak. This year’s recognition reflects the Alliance’s continued focus on shaping a more seamless experience across the customer journey — from booking and airport to connections and loyalty. The honour was announced at the Grand Final Gala Ceremony, held in Bahrain.

Commenting on the achievement, Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias said, “We are truly honoured to be named the World’s Leading Airline Alliance once again, especially knowing it reflects the trust of travellers and industry peers. Our focus has always been on making customer journeys feel effortless, and our lounges bring the experience to life. This recognition belongs to the teams across member airlines and the Alliance headquarters who make that possible every day, and we’re deeply grateful to our customers for their continued support.“

Earlier in the year, the Star Alliance Los Angeles Airport Lounge was also celebrated at the World Travel Awards, taking home the title of North America’s Leading Airport Lounge for the sixth consecutive year. The recognition reflects the lounge’s consistent focus on comfort, design, and the unique details that travellers appreciate.

Now in its 32nd edition, the World Travel Awards celebrates excellence across the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors. Winners are determined based on a worldwide poll involving qualified executives in the travel sector, alongside consumer travel buyers.

Graham E. Cooke, Founder, World Travel Awards, said: “Congratulations to Star Alliance on winning ‘World’s Leading Airline Alliance 2025’. This award reflects its unparalleled focus on delivering seamless, world-class travel experiences. The commitment and professionalism of the Star Alliance team continue to set new industry benchmarks.”

In addition to the alliance-level award, several Star Alliance member airlines also claimed individual victories this year, showcasing the collective strength and service excellence that Star Alliance brings to travellers worldwide. The member airlines were recognised with awards in four categories, including World’s Leading Airline to Asia and World’s Leading Airline to Europe.

About Star Alliance

Established in 1997 as the first truly global airline alliance, the Star Alliance network was founded on a customer value proposition of global reach, worldwide recognition, and seamless service. Since its inception, it has offered the largest and most comprehensive airline network, with a strong emphasis on enhancing the customer experience throughout the entire Alliance journey.

The member airlines are: Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, Avianca, Brussels Airlines, Copa Airlines, Croatia Airlines, EGYPTAIR, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Shenzhen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, South African Airways, SWISS, TAP Air Portugal, THAI, Turkish Airlines, and United.

Overall, the Star Alliance network currently offers over 18,000 daily flights to more than 1,150 airports in over 190 countries. Further connecting flights are offered by Star Alliance Connecting Partner Juneyao Airlines.