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Tag: Toronto Pearson YYZ

  • Porter Airlines lands in Puerto Vallarta for the first time with inaugural Toronto flight

    Porter Airlines lands in Puerto Vallarta for the first time with inaugural Toronto flight

    thumbnail Porter Airlines lands in Puerto Vallarta for the first time with inaugural Toronto flight

    14 November 2025–TORONTO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Porter Airlines begins roundtrip service today between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Puerto Vallarta (PVR), Mexico, marking the latest expansion of its sun network. This new route brings Mexico’s vibrant Pacific beaches closer to Canadian travellers.

    Seasonal service to Puerto Vallarta starts with three weekly roundtrip flights, increasing to five weekly beginning Dec. 14. Nonstop flights from Hamilton and Ottawa to Puerto Vallarta launch in December, expanding sun destination options for travellers.

    Flights are operated with the Embraer E195-E2. The 132-seat aircraft features a two-by-two seating configuration, meaning no middle seats for any passenger. All travellers enjoy free, fast WiFi, complimentary beer and wine served in glassware, and premium Canadian snacks – all part of Porter’s elevated economy experience.

    Travellers can choose the experience that best meets their needs with all perks included with PorterReserve fares for priority check-in, extra legroom, premium pre-mixed cocktails, and fresh, healthy meals. Individual perks can also be added à la carte when booking PorterClassic.

    This inaugural flight is part of Porter’s extensive winter schedule offerings to Mexico, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Florida, Arizona, and California. The network complements flights from joint venture partner Air Transat, offering even more choice for destinations, travel dates, and flexible bookings.

    VIPorter members can redeem points for sun market travel on Porter and Air Transat, starting at 10,000 points one way.

    Full schedule details are available at www.flyporter.com

    Quotes

    “Launching our inaugural flight to Puerto Vallarta further expands Porter’s presence in Mexico and fulfills a longstanding demand from Canadian travellers. We are excited to offer our elevated economy experience on this popular route, and believe passengers will appreciate the genuine care and hospitality that only Porter provides.”

    – Andrew Pierce, vice president, network planning and reporting, Porter Airlines

    “We are excited to see Porter Airlines expand its selection of international destinations by offering service to Puerto Vallarta. We know many passengers are looking to fly to sunny destinations during the winter season, and this service will provide more choice for our travellers.”

    – Kurush Minocher, interim chief commercial officer, Toronto Pearson

    “We have recorded an 8% increase in visitors from Canada, which confirms their growing interest in our destination. This is a great opportunity to strengthen the relationship between both countries. We recognize and celebrate the addition of these routes operated by Porter, an airline of great relevance in Canada. Today we gather to inaugurate the connection with Toronto, and in the coming days flights to Ottawa and Hamilton will be added. We reaffirm that in Jalisco we welcome Canadian travellers with open arms.”

    – Michelle Fridman Hirsch, Secretary of Tourism of Jalisco

    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 North America, including a coast-to-coast domestic Canadian network, the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®. Visit www.flyporter.com

  • Toronto Pearson awards $780,000 to 10 Indigenous-led organizations in largest Nest Fund

    TORONTO, Nov. 12, 2025 /CNW/ – Toronto Pearson is investing $780,000, its largest Nest Fund to date, to support 10 Indigenous-led organizations in strengthening their operations and creating opportunities for future growth.

    The funding, which is part of the Propeller Project, Toronto Pearson’s community investment program, will help organizations expand their reach and impact through strategic planning, evaluation, staffing and volunteer training, communications and marketing, fundraising, and more.

    “This investment is planting the seeds of the future, rooted in partnerships with Indigenous organizations and communities,” said Deborah Flint, President and CEO of Toronto Pearson. “We recognize the responsibility in our Indigenous relations action plan, and through the Nest Fund, we’re taking meaningful steps together to build stronger, more connected communities.”

    Over the past several years, Toronto Pearson has deepened its commitment to reconciliation through our Indigenous Relations Action Plan, focused on learning, authentic relationship-building, and community-level action. Funding these organizations is an important way Toronto Pearson is working toward bringing this plan to life.

    The 10 organizations are:

    • Aboriginal Labour Force Development Circle – The Aboriginal Labour Force Development Circle is an organization made up of First Nations communities providing employment and training programs and services through seven local delivery mechanisms located throughout Ontario.
    • ENAGB Youth Program – ENAGB Indigenous Youth Agency delivers programming that promotes cultural, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being for Indigenous youth in Toronto. Its programs support education, employment readiness, culture, and leadership development.
    • Indigenous Professional Association of Canada – IPAC is a professional member-based organization dedicated to advancing Indigenous leadership and representation across Canada. The association provides networking opportunities, professional development, and resources to empower Indigenous professionals and strengthen their visibility in various industries.
    • Indigenous Tourism Ontario – ITO is Ontario’s dedicated Indigenous tourism organization working to develop an Indigenous tourism industry that preserves culture, strengthens communities and contributes to economic reconciliation. It conducts training, business and workforce support, marketing and advocacy programs.
    • Moccasin Identifier – The Moccasin Identifier is an Indigenous-led treaty education and awareness initiative with a vision to cover Canada in moccasins, so that all Canadians understand that they are treaty people too. Grown from the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, the initiative uses moccasin designs as a culturally appropriate symbol of Indigenous diversity and connection to land.
    • Native Canadian Centre of Toronto – The Native Canadian Centre of Toronto provides urban Indigenous programming and services focused on culture, employment supports, education, health and community connection. The centre is a long-standing hub for Indigenous cultural programming and community services in Toronto.
    • Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation – The Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation provides technical services, training and program supports for First Nations across Ontario, helping communities access professional services and training.
    • Ontario Native Women’s Association – The Ontario Native Women’s Association delivers culturally grounded programs and services that support Indigenous women and their families, with a focus on ending violence, advancing women’s leadership, and promoting health, healing, and community well-being.
    • Six Nations Polytechnic Inc. – Six Nations Polytechnic is an Indigenous-owned and governed post-secondary institution serving the Six Nations of the Grand River and beyond. The school offers unique programs rooted in Indigenous knowledge, languages, and culture, while also facilitating academic degrees through partnerships with academic institutions.
    • The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund – The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund (DWF) is an Indigenous-led national organization that aims to build cultural understanding and create a path toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. DWF’s programs, campaigns, events, and initiatives build awareness, education, and connections between all peoples in Canada.

    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” seven times in the last eight years by Airports Council International, the global trade representative of the world’s airports. Toronto Pearson was also recognized in 2025 as one of “Canada’s Best Employers” by Forbes.

  • GTAA Reports 2025 Third Quarters Results

    TORONTO, Nov. 10, 2025 /CNW/ – The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (“GTAA”) today reported its financial and operating results for the third quarter and the first nine months of 2025. Toronto Pearson, Canada’s busiest airport, saw slight growth in its overall passenger volumes, which increased by 0.3 million or 2.3% to 13.1 million for the third quarter and 0.3 million or 0.7% to 35.8 million year-to-date, when compared to the same periods in 2024. This was largely driven by strong domestic growth that was partially offset by declines in the international sector. The international sector was impacted by the ongoing decline in transborder travel. Passenger volume in the third quarter was also impacted by an air carrier labour disruption. Year-to-date passenger volume was also impacted by extreme weather events, and a five-day runway closure due to a single aircraft incident in the first quarter.

    “In Q3 2025 we delivered strong growth in the domestic sector, which more than offset the decline in transborder U.S. travel for overall steady growth in passenger volume. As we near the end of this quarter, we expect to see continued progress in our year-over-year performance,” said Deborah Flint, President and CEO.

    “We are on track to deliver on our 2025 business initiatives, maintaining momentum and driving outcomes, demonstrated by the award of Accelerator program, and the in-flight procurement of the T1/T3 Revitalization and Gateway programs. These are critical elements to progressing our strategy that will position us well in 2026,” added Flint.

    Toronto Pearson continues to monitor the global economic and political landscape, assess risks, and be ready to adapt amid economic uncertainty.

    Revenues for the third quarter were $562.2 million, an increase of 5.8%; year-to-date revenue was $1,570.2 million, an increase of 5.7%, compared to the same periods in 2024. The increase in the third quarter and year-to-date is primarily driven by rate and fee increases, aviation activity and a marginal increase in overall passenger traffic.

    Earnings before interest and financing costs, and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the third quarter was $291.6 million, an increase of 6.1%; year-to-date EBITDA was $769.3 million, an increase of 4.7%, compared to the same periods of 2024.  The increase in EBITDA is related to higher revenues associated with the increase in aeronautical fees and AIF partially offset by an increase in operating costs (before amortization), and an air carrier labour disruption. EBITDA margin during the third quarter was 51.9%, an increase of 0.2 percentage points due to the aforementioned factors. Year-to-date EBITDA margin was 49.0%, a decrease of 0.2 percentage points primarily due to the impact on passenger volume from extreme weather events, and a five-day runway closure due to a single aircraft incident in the first quarter of 2025 and from an air carrier labour disruption in the third quarter of 2025.

    Net income during the third quarter was $138.6 million, an increase of 13.3%, and year-to-date net income was $317.7 million, an increase of 12.5%, compared to the same periods of 2024, driven by the increase in revenues offset by the increase in expenses.

    Free Cash Flow for the third quarter was $175.7 million, a decrease of 9.5% compared to the same period in 2024 primarily driven by lower cash flow from operations, partially offset by lower cash outflows related to capital expenditure. Year-to-date free cash flow was $360.3 million, an increase of 2.6% compared to the same period in 2024, driven by  lower cash outflows related to capital expenditure partially offset by lower cash flow from operations, lower receipt of funds under the ACIP and higher net interest expense.

    The GTAA’s September 30, 2025 financial results are discussed in more detail in the GTAA’s Condensed Interim Consolidated Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis, each for the three and nine-months ended September 30, 2025, which are available at www.torontopearson.com 

  • Porter Airlines Celebrates the Sun With First Toronto-Cancun Flight

    First flight operated by the airline to southern vacation market

    original Porter Airlines is launching roundtrip service today between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Cancun, Mexico (CUN). This is the first flight operated by the airline outside of Canada and the U.S., and part of a significant expansion into southern markets that also includes the Caribbean and Central America.

    Porter Airlines is launching roundtrip service today between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Cancun, Mexico (CUN). This is the first flight operated by the airline outside of Canada and the U.S., and part of a significant expansion into southern markets that also includes the Caribbean and Central America.

    5 November 2025–TORONTO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Porter Airlines is launching roundtrip service today between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Cancun, Mexico (CUN). This is the first flight operated by the airline outside of Canada and the U.S., and part of a significant expansion into southern markets that also includes the Caribbean and Central America.

    Porter provides all of its passengers with a distinct elevated economy experience, including free beer and wine served in glassware, as well as premium Canadian snacks, that have been part of its renowned passenger service for 19 years. The route is served with the 132-seat Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, featuring a two-by-two configuration, which means no middle seat on any Porter flight. Free, fast WiFi also comes standard – for all passengers. Priority check-in, extra legroom seats, premium pre-mixed cocktails, and fresh, healthy meals are also available with the all-inclusive PorterReserve fares, or for purchase à la carte with PorterClassic fares.

    The flight schedule improves to daily service beginning in December, and is increasing up to twice daily by January. Non-stop flights to Cancun will also operate from Hamilton and Ottawa, beginning Dec. 17.

    This inaugural flight kicks off Porter’s extensive winter season to sun destinations, including Mexico, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Florida, Arizona and California.

    The schedule complements Air Transat’s network in the region – as Porter’s joint venture partner, this provides travellers additional choice for destinations, travel dates and flight frequency. VIPorter loyalty program members can redeem their VIPorter points for travel on Porter and Air Transat flights to sun markets for as low as 10,000 points one way.

    Full schedule details can be found at www.flyporter.com.

    Quotes

    “Today’s inaugural Cancun flight is the start of establishing a significant presence for Porter in southern vacation markets this winter. Travellers who have long wanted the ability to fly with us to this region will now have multiple options across Mexico, the Caribbean and Costa Rica.

    For 19 years, we have challenged what it means to fly economy and reset expectations in this category. Our award-winning service goes beyond offering free beer and wine; it’s about care and genuine hospitality. With Porter, your vacation begins the minute you decide to fly with us.”

    – Kevin Jackson, president, Porter Airlines

    “Porter Airlines’ expansion into Cancun, its first international destination, marks a major milestone for the carrier. Not only does it serve one of our most popular sun destinations, but it also increases capacity, offering travellers more choice and flexibility. As Canada’s largest airport, we recognize the importance of supporting our airline partners as they continue to grow. We are pleased to see Porter’s continued investment in Toronto Pearson, which strengthens overall connectivity and expands the range of travel options available to our passengers.”

    – Kurush Minocher, Interim Chief Commercial Officer, Toronto Pearson

    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 North America, including a coast-to-coast domestic Canadian network, the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®. Visit www.flyporter.com

  • Air Transat Adds Agadir to its Destinations from Montreal

    MONTREAL, Oct. 30, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Transat, named the World’s Best Leisure Airline in 2025 by Skytrax, is enhancing its summer 2026 program with a new non-stop service between Montreal (YUL) and Agadir (AGA). This addition strengthens Air Transat’s presence in Morocco and responds to the strong demand from leisure travellers and the Moroccan community in Quebec.

    “Morocco is more popular than ever, both for its landscapes and rich culture, as well as for the diaspora ties that unite our two regions,” said Sebastian Ponce, Transat’s Chief Revenue Officer. “With this non-stop service to Agadir, we are offering a simple, fast and friendly connection, true to Air Transat’s promise to make travel inspiring and enjoyable every step of the way.”

    Located on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, Agadir is a seaside destination renowned for its long beaches and warm hospitality. This new service naturally complements Air Transat’s existing route to Marrakech, making the airline the only North American carrier offering non-stop flights to Agadir.

    The flight will operate every Friday from June 12 to October 23, 2026, aboard an Airbus A321LR. It is designed to meet the needs of vacationers seeking sunshine, as well as members of the Moroccan community travelling to visit family and friends.

    Increased Frequency on Key Transatlantic Routes
    To meet growing demand, Air Transat is also increasing the frequency of several transatlantic routes in its network. These additions will improve connections with Porter Airlines’ expanding network, further strengthening connectivity via Toronto.

    RouteUpdated frequency*
    Toronto (YYZ) – Berlin (BER)3 flights/week (+1)
    Toronto (YYZ) – Lima (LIM)3 flights/week (+1)
    Toronto (YYZ) – Istanbul (IST)3 flights/week (+1)

    * Number of flights shown represents peak-season service and year-over-year variations. 

    Flights are available for booking now. More exciting updates for summer 2026 will be announced soon.

    About Air Transat
    Founded in Montreal 37 years ago, Air Transat is a leading travel brand voted 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by passengers at the Skytrax World Airline Awards. Its program offers access to international destinations, mainly in Europe, the Caribbean, the east coast of the United States, South America and North Africa. Air Transat is recognized for its excellent customer service. Its fleet includes some of the most energy-efficient aircraft in their category. Based in Montreal with major hubs in YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ), it has 5,000 employees with a common purpose to bring people closer together. Air Transat is a business unit of Transat A.T. Inc. www.airtransat.com

  • Toronto Pearson announces innovation pilots with DMZ, Creative Destruction Lab

    TORONTO, Oct. 27, 2025 /CNW/ – Toronto Pearson is announcing new innovation pilot programs with technology incubator DMZ and global startup program Creative Destruction Lab. 

    The two pilot programs, both set to run for six months, are meant to broaden the airport’s pool of suppliers beyond traditional aviation technology companies, said Brian Tossan, Toronto Pearson’s chief technology officer and interim chief infrastructure officer.

    “Canada and Toronto are hotbeds for startup talent and artificial intelligence, and many of these companies are right in our back yard. We want to expand our roster of suppliers to bring in cutting-edge technologies and foster cross-sectoral innovation. This will accelerate digitalization at Canada’s busiest airport,” Tossan said.

    The DMZ pilot initiative aims to support Toronto Pearson in engaging with emerging startups. The airport seeks to leverage advanced technologies not conventionally used in the aviation sector to support capacity growth, drive operational efficiencies, elevate passenger experience, gather real-time information, support non-aeronautical revenue and better manage how travelers and employees engage with GTAA amenities. Sherif El Tawil, DMZ’s senior director of programs and global operations, will work on site as an expert in residence, learning about the airport’s business and connecting it to growing companies with innovative companies with ideas and products.

    “Toronto Pearson is setting the bar for how major operators can tap into startup innovation to solve real challenges. The mobility and aviation sector needs fresh thinking and there’s no better place to find breakthrough solutions than with the entrepreneurs building them in our own backyard,” said Abdullah Snobar, executive director of DMZ and CEO of DMZ Ventures. “We’re excited to help Toronto Pearson discover solutions that can make a tangible difference for millions of passengers while showing what’s possible when you give startups a seat at the table.”

    The Creative Destruction Lab pilot is focused on artificial intelligence products that can improve Toronto Pearson’s efficiency and resiliency in areas such as baggage handling, gate management and integrated command centers. The airport will participate in CDL’s Putting AI to Work program, which is designed to accelerate implementation and create measurable business impact. The program supports large organizations in selecting, deploying and scaling AI solutions that aim to deliver a 20-percent productivity lift through cost savings, output improvements or enhanced service quality within two years.

    “Airports are complex systems where every decision affects capacity, efficiency and the overall experience,” said Sonia Sennik, CEO of Creative Destruction Lab. “Through CDL’s Putting AI to Work program, we’re helping Toronto Pearson apply artificial intelligence to enhance operational resiliency and accelerate digital transformation. Our structured approach supports leadership teams in selecting and scaling AI solutions that deliver measurable productivity gains within two years.”    

    Toronto Pearson will formally announce the pilot programs Monday evening at an AI event at MaRS Discovery District, held during the 2025 ACI-NA & ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition, the most important global gathering of airport leaders.

    Canadian startups can find more information about the DMZ pilot initiative and application process at dmz.to/Toronto-Pearson.

    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” seven times in the last eight years by Airports Council International, the global trade representative of the world’s airports. Toronto Pearson was also recognized in 2025 as one of “Canada’s Best Employers” by Forbes. 

    About DMZ

    DMZ is a tech incubator and startup ecosystem that fuels entrepreneurship in Canada and beyond. DMZ programming empowers founders to scale high-impact ventures, helps students develop entrepreneurial mindsets and equips professionals to thrive in today’s fast-moving economy. To date, DMZ has supported 2,600+ startups in raising $2.95-billion in capital and has created over 25,350 jobs. Headquartered in Toronto, DMZ operates a global network of hubs spanning 15+ countries, enabling entrepreneurs to access diverse markets, collaborate internationally and drive global innovation.

    About CDL

    Creative Destruction Lab (CDL) is a nonprofit organization that delivers an objectives-based program for massively scalable, seed-stage, science- and technology-based companies. Its nine-month program allows founders to learn from experienced entrepreneurs, increasing their likelihood of success. CDL  has 15 sites across nine countries: Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, Halifax, Paris, Madison, Seattle, Estonia, Berlin, Melbourne, College Station, Milan, London and San Sebastian. CDL’s Putting AI to Work is a 12-month, cohort-based program to help organizations translate artificial intelligence into measurable business impact by supporting teams in selecting, deploying, and scaling AI solutions that aim to deliver a 20% productivity lift. Learn more here at creativedestructionlab.com.

  • Air Canada to Double Frequency of Landline Service between Kitchener-Waterloo Airport and Toronto Pearson

    • Increase to 10 daily return trips will improve connection times for customers

    MONTRÉAL, October 14, 2025 – Air Canada today said that beginning December 1 it will double the frequency of The Landline Company’s luxury coach service between the Region of Waterloo International Airport and Toronto Pearson. The number of daily return trips will increase to 10 from five, giving customers more convenient options for travelling and better connection times with their onward flights from Air Canada’s global hub.

    “We have been very satisfied with the response from the Kitchener-Waterloo Region to Air Canada’s innovative, multi-modal service. Customers are finding the comfort, convenience and reliability of Landline and its luxury motor coaches very compelling. With the service growing in popularity, we are doubling the frequencies to 10 daily, which will give customers even better, one-stop connectivity between the Region of Waterloo International Airport and key destinations we serve from Toronto Pearson, such as Vancouver, Tokyo, Halifax, San Francisco, and hundreds more,” said Ranbir Singh, Director, Regional Airlines and Markets at Air Canada.

    “Since launching the service, we’ve heard from hundreds of customers who love the Air Canada Landline connection experience but needed more options to match their connecting flights at Pearson,” said Rizwan Qadir, Landline spokesperson. “By doubling frequency to 10 trips per day, travelers can now mix and match schedules to fit their outbound and return Air Canada flights more conveniently.”

    “This increased service is a welcome investment in our community’s future and reflects the confidence Air Canada has in our region’s growth and potential,” said Karen Redman, Chair of the Region of Waterloo. “Doubling the frequency strengthens Waterloo Region’s global reach and opens new doors for our residents, businesses, and visitors alike. We are committed to providing travellers with more accessible options. This expansion gives residents more choice and reason to choose YKF.”

    FromToDay of WeekDeparture TimeArrival Time
    Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF)Toronto (YYZ)Daily5:30am6:35am
    6:30am7:35am
    9:25am10:30am
    11:15am12:25pm
    1:15pm2:20pm
    2:10pm3:20pm
    4:00pm5:05pm
    5:35pm6:45pm
    6:55pm8:00pm
    8:25pm9:25pm
    Toronto (YYZ)Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF)Daily7:00am8:10am
    8:00am9:10am
    11:40am12:45pm
    12:45pm1:50pm
    2:40pm3:45pm
    3:40pm4:55pm
    5:20pm6:35pm
    7:05pm8:10pm
    8:35pm9:40pm
    10:15pm11:20pm

    Premium motorcoaches

    The motorcoaches used by Landline for Air Canada are made in Canada by Prevost, a manufacturer of touring coaches based in Sainte-Claire, Quebec. Each Landline motorcoach provides a premium experience, with 36 spacious, leather seats in a two-by-one configuration. The coaches are equipped with free Wi-Fi, power and a table tray available at each seat, generous overhead storage for carry-on baggage, and an onboard lavatory. Announcements will be made in both Official Languages and the coaches are fully accessible, including a power lift for customers requiring mobility aids. Customers travelling on Landline can earn and redeem Aeroplan miles and customers are protected in the event of trip disruption.

    Air Canada regional services 

    Air Canada operates to 40 communities across Canada, including in partnership with regional carriers Jazz Aviation LP and PAL Airlines. Through its innovative partnership with Landline, Air Canada is extending its regional network to conveniently connect local airports directly to its global network. In addition to the Region of Waterloo International Airport, Air Canada and Landline have partnered to serve the John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport and Kingston Norman Rogers Airport. There is potential to further expand the partnership with Landline to connect with other regional airports in Canada at a future date.

    About The Landline Company

    The biggest airlines in the world trust Landline to power their first and last mile connectivity. Landline’s industry-first platform allows airlines to leverage the seamlessness and affordability of ground transportation to add dynamic new routes to their network without sacrificing on quality or customer experience. Landline operates seamless multi-modal networks on behalf of Air Canada, American Airlines, and Sun Country Airlines. Landline is fundamentally reshaping the way every consumer thinks about the travel day by making air travel multi-modal. Visit landlineco.com for more information. 

    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.

  • Air Canada’s network set for growth with impending arrival of Airbus A321XLR

    Air Canada’s network planning team has been eagerly anticipating the arrival into its fleet of the airline’s first Airbus A321XLR, which will bring with it opportunities to open new markets.

    For years, the team has been poring over data to determine the best way to deploy this game-changing aircraft. And now, with first delivery on the horizon, it is no longer just a paper exercise, said Alexandre Lefevre, Vice President, Network Planning – North America and Scheduling at Air Canada.

    “Next year we going to finally get our hands on that new aircraft. And it’s going to open up a range of new possibilities, new routes, new markets for Air Canada. We’re really excited and it’s a big deal for us that will herald a new era of international growth for Air Canada,” he said.

    “We’re going to see them starting in 2026 and, as any new aircraft, we’re going to have some testing and certification going on in the early months of 2026. But you can expect them to be in full commercial service by next summer.”

    Last month, Air Canada announced the first new route that the A321XLR will allow it to open, marking the start of its new era of growth. Palma de Mallorca, a Spanish island in the Mediterranean, will join Air Canada’s network in June 2026. The A321XLR will also be seen on routes like Toulouse, Dublin and Edinburgh, all out of Montréal, next summer.

    There are many factors that go into determining where an airline flies and which aircraft to use. At the end of the day, it requires a delicate balancing of range, demand and economics.

    “When you look at opening new routes, you need to look at the economics. When you’ve got a tool like the A321XLR that’s completely different from the tools you’ve got in your toolbox today, that opens up new markets that today you cannot viably and profitably open,” Lefevre said.

    “The A321XLR will be used to replace some older aircraft, but our strategy is to use it for growth, especially international growth. With the size, range and the capabilities of this aircraft, we’re going to be able to, first and foremost, fly new international markets and maintain a presence year-round when demand is not sufficient to operate the route profitably with a larger aircraft.”

    While the A321XLR will be used to develop new international markets or maintain them in the shoulder season, Canadian travellers flying domestically or within North America will also be able to enjoy the modern new aircraft and its new interior.

    “For us, the A321XLR is not a single trick aircraft. It’s a very versatile machine that can go international, but it can also operate a domestic transcontinental route. So you’re going to have this experience of lie-flat seats on a narrowbody between Toronto, Montreal and the west coast of Canada, for example,” Lefevre added.

    Some of the advantages of the A321XLR are a longer range thanks to the larger fuel tank and an all-new cabin, including the larger overhead XL bins from Airbus.

    “This also allows us to be more efficient by having faster turnaround times and getting the aircraft back in the air, because it’s meant to fly, not to be on the ground. A faster, more efficient boarding process will improve the customer experience and ensure on-time departures.”

    The A321XLR will be the launch platform for many of the new features that customers will see across the Air Canada fleet. It’s going to come with a new look and feel in the cabin, and that is something that will be rolled out across the entire Air Canada fleet.

  • Air Transat Announces Three New International Routes and Boosts Year-Round Service for Summer 2026 Program

    MONTREAL, Oct. 8, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Transat, named the 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by Skytrax, unveils a series of major additions to its summer 2026 network. Central to these new developments are exclusive transatlantic routes such as Quebec City–Marseille and Ottawa–London Gatwick, as well as the annualization of several southern routes from Montreal, Quebec City and Toronto.

    These expansions are part of Air Transat’s strategy to develop its presence in Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean, while providing travellers with greater flexibility and an even wider range of options.

    New for summer 2026 (CNW Group/Transat A.T. Inc.)

    “Our summer 2026 is already shaping up to be exceptional,” said Sebastian Ponce, Chief Revenue Officer at Transat. “We’re accelerating our growth in Quebec City, launching our first transatlantic route from Ottawa, and expanding our international connections. This is just the beginning of a season full of exciting new developments.”

    New routes from Quebec City

    From May 21 to October 8, 2026, Air Transat will operate a weekly non-stop service between Quebec City and Marseille on Thursdays. This new, exclusive route offers a unique gateway to the south of France and is a complement to the popularity of the existing Quebec City–Paris route. Additionally, the new Quebec City–Fort-de-France service, which is set to launch on December 14, 2025, will be extended over the summer to include a weekly Monday flight, providing year-round access to Martinique.

    New routes from Ottawa

    For the first time, Air Transat will offer non-stop transatlantic flights from Ottawa to London-Gatwick, starting on 15 May 2026. This service will operate three times a week on Fridays, Sundays and Tuesdays. In addition, a new Ottawa–Montreal route will be available from May 5 to October 23, 2026, making it even easier for travellers from the Canadian capital to access the full Air Transat network. This development is driven by the growing network of Air Transat’s partner, Porter Airlines, which is consolidating Ottawa as a major hub in eastern Canada. Together, the two airlines are improving international access to the Canadian capital while providing travellers with a seamless and convenient connecting journey.

    Year-round South routes from Montreal and Toronto

    Beginning summer 2026, Air Transat will convert several popular seasonal routes to year-round:

    RoutesNumber of flightsOperating days
    Montreal (YUL) – Cartagena (CTG) – Medellín  (MDE)*1 flight/weekThursdays
    Montreal (YUL) – Pointe-à-Pitre (PTP)2 flights/weekTuesdays and Saturdays
    Montreal (YUL) – San José (SJO)2 flights/weekMondays and Fridays
    Toronto (YYZ) – Cartagena (CTG) – Medellín (MDE)1 flight/weekWednesdays

    *New route

    Notably, the Montreal–Cartagena (YUL–CTG) route will now operate year-round and be extended to Medellín (MDE). This service is based on the model of the future Toronto–Cartagena–Medellín route, which is set to launch on November 2 and will also operate year-round. Together, these routes offer travellers the chance to enjoy both the sunny beaches of the Caribbean coast as well as the cultural and urban vibrancy of Medellín.

    The mentioned flights are now available for booking. Further developments will be announced in the coming weeks as part of the 2026 summer program rollout.

    About Air Transat

    Founded in Montreal 37 years ago, Air Transat is a leading travel brand voted 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by passengers at the Skytrax World Airline Awards. Its program offers access to international destinations, mainly in Europe, the Caribbean, the east coast of the United States, South America and North Africa. Air Transat is recognized for its excellent customer service. Its fleet includes some of the most energy-efficient aircraft in their category. Based in Montreal with major hubs in YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ), it has 5,000 employees with a common purpose to bring people closer together. Air Transat is a business unit of Transat A.T. Inc. (TSX: TRZ). www.airtransat.com

  • Toronto Pearson, Air Transat and Autism Ontario host immersive airport familiarization tour for individuals with autism and neurodivergent needs

    TORONTO, Oct. 5, 2025 /CNW/ – Toronto Pearson, Autism Ontario and Air Transat have teamed up for the third annual “Ready, Set, Fly…with YYZ,” an immersive airport familiarization tour that supports families and individuals with autism and other neurodivergent conditions.

    About 200 participants joined Toronto Pearson on Sunday for the chance to practice every stage of the travel experience – from check-in and security screening to boarding an aircraft, clearing customs and engaging with airport staff. The event is designed to support travellers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodivergent needs by easing the stress of flying and providing hands-on experience navigating Canada’s busiest airport.

    “At Toronto Pearson, we’re committed to creating a smooth, safe, and enjoyable airport experience for all. We want every passenger to feel welcome and confident as they experience the joys of air travel,” said Christina Iacovino, Director, Customer Experience and Development, Toronto Pearson. “By working closely with our partners and listening to passengers’ experiences at events like ‘Ready, Set, Fly…with YYZ,’ we learn valuable lessons that help us reduce barriers and make air travel more inclusive.”

    “Ready, Set, Fly is a program that gives autistic individuals and their families the opportunity to prepare and gain experience before travelling,” says Marg Spoelstra, Chief Executive Officer of Autism Ontario. “Routine and predictability make a world of difference for many autistic people. Since airports and flights can be unpredictable, such as with unexpected changes and delays, programs like ‘Ready, Set, Fly’ help families build confidence, reduce stress, and make travel more accessible.”

    “Seeing this event grow year after year is a testament to how meaningful it is for neurodivergent individuals, their families, and our team,” said Andréan Gagné, Senior Director, Communications, Public Affairs and Corporate Responsibility, Transat. “Bringing people closer together is at the heart of what we do, and we are proud to contribute to making air travel more inclusive by championing initiatives like ‘Ready, Set, Fly.’”

    As part of its commitment to accessibility, Toronto Pearson also launched the Travel Rehearsal Program this year, which gives passengers with disabilities the opportunity to practice their airport journey year-round on a more personalized scale.

    To learn more about the Rehearsal Program and accessibility at Toronto Pearson, visit: torontopearson.com/accessibility

    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” seven times in the last eight years by Airports Council International, the global trade representative of the world’s airports. Toronto Pearson was also recognized in 2025 as one of “Canada’s Best Employers” by Forbes.