MUSQUEAM TERRITORY/RICHMOND, B.C, Sept. 8, 2025 /CNW/ – Vancouver Airport Authority (VAA) announced that Morningstar DBRS has reaffirmed its Issuer Rating and Senior Debentures credit rating at AA (low), both with Stable trends. This follows the AA- rating from S&P Global Ratings on August 21, 2025.
The rating reflects Morningstar DBRS’ assessment of the Airport Authority’s competitive aeronautical fees, strategic location, resilient business model, and relatively low debt levels. The reaffirmation of the credit ratings by both Morningstar DBRS and S&P underscores the Authority’s robust financial management and strategic planning.
“We are pleased that Morningstar DBRS, in addition to S&P Global Ratings, recognizes our strong credit profile,” said Clayton Buckingham, Vice President, Finance and CFO at Vancouver Airport Authority. “The reports reinforce that the strategic investments we’ve made in service to travellers, our employees, and the economy, as well as our operations, also serve to strengthen our resiliency and financial sustainability.”
Full details of Vancouver Airport Authority’s financial performance and strategic initiatives are available in its 2024 Annual & Sustainability Report.
About Vancouver Airport Authority Vancouver Airport Authority (VAA) is the non-share capital organization that manages and operates Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in service of the community and economy that supports it.
MUSQUEAM TERRITORY/RICHMOND, BC, Aug. 21, 2025 /CNW/ – Vancouver Airport Authority (VAA) is pleased to announce that S&P Global Ratings has reaffirmed its AA- long-term issuer credit and senior unsecured debt rating, maintaining the positive outlook first issued in 2024.
This marks the sixth consecutive year that Vancouver Airport Authority has received an AA- rating from S&P, underscoring the organization’s financial strength and operational resilience. The reaffirmed AA- rating reflects the Airport Authority’s superior credit quality, supported by the strength of our economic fundamentals, relatively low debt burden, prudent fiscal management and strategy, as well as growth fostered by passengers, cargo, and diversification opportunities.
“At Vancouver International Airport, our continued success is driven by strategic investments that build operational resilience and elevate the passenger experience,” said Tamara Vrooman, President and CEO of Vancouver Airport Authority. “S&P’s reaffirmation of our AA- credit rating is a clear signal that we are delivering on our commitment to serve British Columbia with fiscal prudence, strong leadership, and responsible corporate governance.”
The Airport Authority continues to focus on innovation and sustainability, enhancing its operations to drive future economic growth in British Columbia and beyond.
“Maintaining our financial strength enables YVR to proactively invest in opportunities, adapt to shifting market conditions, and continue to focus on enhancing our operations and the experience we provide through innovation and the use of technology,” added Clayton Buckingham, Vice President, Finance and CFO, Vancouver Airport Authority.
Full details of Vancouver Airport Authority’s financial performance and strategic initiatives are available in its 2024 Annual & Sustainability Report.
About Vancouver Airport Authority Vancouver Airport Authority (VAA) is the non-share capital organization that manages and operates Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in service of the community and economy that supports it.
Air Canada begins relaunching flights so customers can travel again
First departures are AC009 from Toronto to Tokyo-Narita, AC556 from Vancouver to Los Angeles and AC489 from Montreal to Toronto
155 flights scheduled to depart today from Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver across North America and to Europe, Asia, South Pacific
Exceptional disruption policy to be implemented to cover transport expenses
MONTREAL, Aug. 19, 2025 /CNW/ – With the departures of AC009 from Toronto to Tokyo-Narita, AC556 from Vancouver to Los Angeles and AC489 from Montreal to Toronto, Air Canada resumed operations today to get Canadians moving again. The three flights were the first of 155 scheduled for the day as the airline gradually resumes service, beginning with a limited number of international flights this evening. This will gradually increase as the airline restores service in Canada, the U.S. and around the world over the coming days.
“We’re laser-focused on getting our customers moving again. Restoring global operations will take up to ten days, as aircraft and crew are out of position. Additionally, mandatory maintenance checks are required, as aircraft have been on the ground for more than three days. Regrettably, during this period some flights will be canceled until the schedule is stabilized, and we’ll notify customers well in advance and provide options,” said Mark Nasr, Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer, at Air Canada.
“When customers buy a ticket on Air Canada, we are making a commitment to deliver them safely and on schedule. Following this disruption, we know confidence has been shaken. We’re working hard to fully restore their trust, starting by getting customers on their way again. To do that, we will be introducing an exceptional policy tomorrow, towards covering transportation expenses which customers may have incurred to get to their destination during this disruption. As well, we’ve created a dashboard on our website so anyone can transparently track our progress as our operations return to normal. We look forward to welcoming our customers and flight attendants back onboard,” concluded Mr. Nasr.
Air Canada’s recovery dashboard is available now at www.aircanada.com/action. The airline’s exceptional disruption policy will be available beginning August 20, 2025 at www.aircanada.com/action.
As Air Canada ramps up, customers should only go to the airport if they hold a confirmed booking, and their flights show as operating. Flight status can be checked on aircanada.com or on the Air Canada app. Those with cancelled flights can obtain a full refund, a travel credit, or, ask to be rebooked on our Star Alliance partners or other airlines, although capacity is limited due to peak summer travel. To assist in the rebooking process, Air Canada has designated 5,000 agents to assist customers in finding alternative travel. More information for customers about travel options including an FAQ is at: www.aircanada.com/action.
Air Canada Express flights operated by Jazz or PAL continue to operate as normal.
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.
The North Runway is a critical piece of YVR’s infrastructure and supports nearly 400 aircraft movements a day. Now, 30 years after its original opening, it’s in need of upgrades to ensure its longevity and resilience for decades to come.
In this first episode of our North Runway video series, we take you behind the scenes of one of YVR’s major infrastructure projects. The video introduces our overall approach to the program, the complexities of working within an airport environment and what this all means to YVR and our community from the people who are delivery the work every day, including our Musqueam partners.
Watch the video to learn how early works have been delivered, what it takes to prepare for paving and construction on an active runway, and how we’re working to minimize impacts on the travelling public, neighbours, and operations.
Our North Runway Program goes beyond paving. It’s about investing in the long-term reliability of our operations, so we can keep connecting people and goods to where they need to go, for years to come.
Stay tuned for future videos in the series as we continue this important work to support the safe, efficient movement of people and goods across our region. Be sure to visit the Major Projects page of our Newsroom to subscribe to our bi-monthly newsletter and view other videos about how we’re delivering this important program: news.yvr.ca/north-runway-modernization-program.
Whitehorse, Yukon — August 7, 2025 – Air North, Yukon’s Airline, is pleased to announce the return of its seasonal non-stop service between Vancouver and Yellowknife, beginning Monday, November 24, 2025, which will depart twice weekly until March 27, 2026. This reinstated route enhances direct air travel between British Columbia and the Northwest Territories. Excitingly, it also enables near year-round air service between Whitehorse and Yellowknife: via Vancouver in the winter and through Air North’s eastern gateway in Ontario during the summer. The service will play a key role in enhancing northern transportation links and fostering economic and cultural connections across the region.
“This route aligns with our mission to deliver Canada’s best regional air network,” said Benjamin Ryan, Chief Commercial Officer at Air North. “As a Yukon-owned and operated airline, we are deeply committed to supporting the prosperity of Canada’s Arctic. We see this route as a meaningful step toward strengthening connections between the Yukon and the Northwest Territories. Our track record of delivering safe, reliable, and affordable air access in the North continues to contribute to community well-being and long-term economic development.”
“We are pleased that Air North – which has been serving northern communities out of YVR for over 20 years – is reintroducing service to Yellowknife,” said Mike McNaney, Vice President and Chief External Affairs Officer at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). “Those travelling from British Columbia now have more choice and opportunity to experience all that a Northwest Territories winter has to offer, while flights from Yellowknife are timed for seamless onwards connections through YVR.”
The service reflects Air North’s northern-first strategy, marking a significant milestone in connecting the Yukon and Northwest Territories by prioritizing community needs, fostering economic integration, and strengthening long-term regional resilience. It enhances tourism and travel trade by increasing two-way visitor flows between Yellowknife and Vancouver, with seamless connections for international travellers eager to experience Aurora season. It also supports cargo transport, business travel, scientific collaboration, and ongoing investment in northern innovation and Indigenous partnerships.
“NWT Tourism is very excited to welcome back Air North’s seasonal non‑stop service between Vancouver and Yellowknife. The reinstated route highlights Air North’s continued commitment to supporting the Northwest Territories and our businesses,” says Donna Lee Demarcke, Chief Executive Officer of Northwest Territories Tourism. “Whether travelling to visit family and friends, for business, or to experience the magic of the midnight sun or the Northern Lights, this route fosters meaningful opportunities for tourism, business, and cultural connection. We thank Air North for their continued support as we work together to showcase the Spectacular NWT to the world.”
The inaugural flight, operated by Air North’s Boeing 737 aircraft, departs Vancouver International Airport (YVR) at 1:25 p.m. PT on Monday, November 24, and arrives at Yellowknife Airport (YZF) at 4:55 p.m. MT. Flights are available for purchase starting today, with one-way fares from just $139 CAD, including complimentary meals, checked and carry-on baggage, and Air North’s famous warm chocolate chip cookie and friendly service.
About Air North: Air North, Yukon’s Airline was founded in 1977 and is 49% owned by the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation. Almost one in fifteen Yukoners have an equity or employment stake in the airline, making Air North a key employer in the Yukon. Air North operates a fleet of Boeing 737-800, 737-500 and 737-400 jet aircraft, and ATR 42 turboprops on routes throughout the Yukon and to the Northwest Territories, British Columbia, Alberta, and seasonally to Ontario. In 2020 it was the recipient of TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award for Best Airline in Canada and Best Airline (Specialty and Leisure) in North America based upon glowing reviews from its passengers.
Next time you’re flying domestically through YVR, make sure to leave time to explore our newest retail store: Cascadia Collection. Located post security in our Domestic departures area, this open-concept walkthrough store offers a fresh take on airport shopping by blending travel convenience with elevated and locally inspired retail.
Designed to reflect the beauty of British Columbia, the space features warm wood finishes and touches of green that bring our unique West Coast sense of place right to your gate.
Whether you’re picking up a meaningful gift, treating yourself, or grabbing something you forgot to pack, Cascadia Collection has something for every traveller.
One of Cascadia Collection standout features is North America’s first airport listening room, where you can test premium headphones in a cozy, immersive lounge environment, bringing a unique experience.
For fashion lovers, the store brings sustainable luxury to the airport with a selection of pre-loved designer bags from iconic brands like Louis Vuitton, Channel, Dior and Gucci.
Beyond luxury, Cascadia Collection showcases a thoughtful mix of travel essentials, locally crafted goods, and Indigenous-made products that reflect the spirit and culture of British Columbia.
YVR is proud to partner with WHSmith North America on this innovative retail concept. This opening is part of our ongoing commitment to enhance passengers’ journey and partner with best-in-class local and global brands to showcase the best of our community to the world.
So next time you fly through YVR, take a moment to browse, discover, and enjoy Cascadia Collection.
Canada’s most reliable and affordable airline begins nonstop service to Mexico City this October
Vancouver, B.C. July 29, 2025 — Flair Airlines is proud to announce the launch of nonstop service to Mexico City International Airport Benito Juárez (MEX) from both Vancouver (YVR) and Toronto (YYZ), beginning October 2025. With three flights per week on each route and one-way fares starting from $160 CAD from YYZ-MEX and $141 CAD from YVR-MEX, Flair is the first Canadian value carrier to offer direct, affordable access to Mexico’s capital.
“For too long, flights to Mexico City have been out of reach for too many,” said Maciej Wilk, CEO of Flair Airlines. “We’re changing that. Flair is the only value airline in Canada, making it possible for customers to explore the capital of Mexico, and for Mexicans to discover all that Toronto and Vancouver have to offer.”
As Canada’s most reliable airline, Flair continues to expand its Mexico network, building on popular service to Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Guadalajara. The addition of Mexico City, the country’s cultural, political, and culinary hub, opens new opportunities for travel, tourism, business, and connection.
“Mexico and Canada have long enjoyed a close and dynamic relationship, connecting families, businesses, and curious travellers who explore each other’s rich cultures,” said Acting Consul General Luis Hernandez. “On behalf of the Consulate General of Mexico in Vancouver, I am delighted to welcome Flair’s new direct flights to Mexico City from Vancouver and Toronto. Expanding reliable and affordable air service strengthens the vital links between our two nations and opens new opportunities for travel, tourism, and economic exchange.”
“Whether it’s a long-awaited visit with loved ones or a chance to explore one of the world’s great cities, Flair is committed to making air travel more accessible, seamless, and affordable for Canadians, Mexicans, and everyone in between,” added Wilk.
Vancouver (YVR) to Mexico City (MEX): Starts October 27, 2025, Monday, Friday, Sunday (Departs 07:10, Arrives 23:45), starting at $140
Mexico City (MEX) to Vancouver (YVR): Starts October 28, 2025, Monday, Tuesday, Saturday (Departs 00:45, Arrives 05:55), starting at $120
Toronto (YYZ) to Mexico City (MEX): Starts October 28, 2025, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday (Departs 20:15, Arrives 23:45), starting at $160
Mexico City (MEX) to Toronto (YYZ): Starts October 29, 2025, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday (Departs 00:45, Arrives 07:25), starting at $120
*Flights are subject to government approval. Fares are subject to change.
With this coveted new route, Flair continues to democratize air travel, giving more travellers the freedom to explore, reconnect, and experience the world on their terms. These new flights offer unbeatable value for both leisure and VFR (visiting friends and relatives) travellers, while maintaining Flair’s trademark reliability and simplicity. Visit Flair’s website now to see the full schedule.
About Flair Airlines
Flair Airlines is Canada’s most reliable and greenest airline, on a mission to make air travel affordable, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone. With a growing fleet of fuel-efficient Boeing 737 aircraft, Flair connects 25 cities across Canada, the U.S., Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. Flair FWD is our ongoing commitment to better travel—delivering smarter service, low fares, and customer experiences that go beyond expectations.
New carrier strengthens YVR’s position as a global gateway, key driver of trade and economic impact
MUSQUEAM TERRITORY and RICHMOND, BC, July 12, 2025 /CNW/ – Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is proud to be the first airport in North America to welcome regular service from South Korean airline, T’way Air. Today’s inaugural flight kicks off four-times weekly, year-round service between Incheon International Airport (ICN) in Seoul and YVR, further positioning YVR as the preferred North American gateway to Asia-Pacific.
The new T’way service provides the community with even more flexibility and convenience when travelling to South Korea and connections across Asia, but the benefits of this new service go beyond passengers alone. An additional air connection provides increased cargo capacity to further diversify trading markets and get British Columbian and Canadian products to consumers in Asia and around the world. 2024 was a record-breaking year for cargo out of YVR with more than 339,000 tonnes of goods shipped through the airport and South Korea is YVR’s number two air export destination.
“British Columbia has long had strong ties with South Korea and is home to a large Korean community that continues to make significant contributions to the cultural diversity and prosperity of our province,” said B.C. Premier David Eby. “This affordable direct flight will allow people to stay connected with friends and family across the Pacific and also means that it will be faster and easier to do business with our fourth largest trading partner, strengthening the economic ties between us during a time of global uncertainty.”
“This new service to South Korea is about more than travel convenience—it represents a strategic investment in connectivity, trade, and Canada’s place in the global economy,” said Tamara Vrooman, President and CEO at YVR. “YVR is excited to further expand our ability to connect Canada with the world, to support industry and families, attract investment, and to further build resilience in supply chains.”
Each new international route from YVR results in direct economic benefit, with the flight to Seoul estimated to generate $39.8 million in economic output, $20.8 million in GDP, and 237 full time jobs in the province.
“The launch of our Vancouver–Incheon route represents more than just a new destination—it’s a meaningful bridge connecting people, cultures, and economic opportunity,” said Mr. Sang Yoon Lee, CEO of T’way Air. “As the first Korean low-cost carrier to serve Canada, we’re excited to welcome onboard travellers to Korea while continuing to deliver reliable service.”
Prior to the flight departing for its inaugural 11-hour journey, Elders from Musqueam, joined by Musqueam Councillor Morgan Guerin, helped send passengers on their journey in a good way with traditional songs and hands raised. Since 2017, this relationship has been guided by the Musqueam-YVR Sustainability & Friendship Agreement, a 30-year commitment built on respect, reconciliation, and shared prosperity.
Flights with T’way from Vancouver to Seoul are scheduled to depart YVR at 5:25 p.m. local time arriving at ICN the next day at 9:35 p.m. local time. T’way is operating this route using an Airbus 330-300 aircraft, offering 347 seats, including lie-flat options in its Business Saver class, moving approximately 2,700 passengers weekly.
Established in 2010, T’way Air is a low-cost carrier serving more than 40 destinations domestically in South Korea and around the globe including Europe, Asia, Australia, and now North America with the introduction of service to YVR.
For further details on this new service and to book, please visit www.twayair.com.
ABOUT YVR
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is a diverse global hub that connects people, cargo, data, and ideas and serves as a platform for our community to come together and thrive. We are motivated by supporting regional economic development and making a positive difference in the lives of British Columbians. We do this with a focus on serving our passengers, partners, workers, and community through digital modernization, climate leadership, reconciliation, and financial sustainability.
Four non-stop flights weekly to Lima, two each from Montreal and Toronto
First Canadian carrier offering non-stop service- to Mexico’s buzzworthy Puerto Escondido from Toronto and a new route to Tepic, Riviera Nayarit from Vancouver
Weekly non-stop flights from Montreal to Belize
MONTREAL, July 9, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Canada today announced it is further expanding its winter 2025-26 network by resuming non-stop service to Lima, Peru with twice weekly flights from both Montreal and Toronto. The airline is also adding three new routes to Central America and Mexico including, Montreal-Belize, Toronto-Puerto Escondido*, and Vancouver-Tepic, Riviera Nayarit*, building on its recent Latin America expansion announcement. Flights are now available for sale at aircanada.com, through Air Canada Contact Centres, and via travel agents.
Air Canada today announced it is further expanding its winter 2025-26 network by resuming non-stop service to Lima, Peru with twice weekly flights from both Montreal and Toronto. (CNW Group/Air Canada)
“Air Canada is further diversifying its global network this winter under its New Frontiers Strategy by capitalizing on strong leisure demand to sought-after vacation destinations in South and Central America and in Mexico’s Oaxaca and Pacific coast areas. Our new flights are designed to provide easy connections for both Canadian and European travellers, as well as to take advantage of cargo opportunities in the region,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer, and President, Cargo at Air Canada.
“Customers will have even more compelling choices when planning vacation travel this winter. From Peru’s rich history and archaeological ruins, the legendary Belize Barrier Reef, or Mexico’s vibrant and rapidly emerging hidden gem vacation spots, Air Canada is proud to bring new and exciting destinations for our customers to explore. We look forward to welcoming you onboard our award-winning airline soon,” concluded Mr. Galardo.
Air Canada’s newest Mexico routes are opening doors to some of the country’s buzzworthy and under the radar vacation destinations. Puerto Escondido, nestled along Oaxaca’s stunning Pacific coast, is a laid-back surf haven renowned for its golden beaches and extraordinary waves. With new direct flights from Toronto, this bohemian paradise will now be within easy reach for Canadian travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path charm.
On Mexico’s western coast, Air Canada’s new Vancouver-Tepic, Riviera Nayarit service opens a fresh gateway to the Riviera Nayarit—timed perfectly with the completion of a new highway linking Tepic to Puerto Vallarta in October 2025. Oceanfront gems such as artistic San Pancho, surf-friendly Sayulita, and upscale Punta Mita will be within a convenient 30-minute to one-hour drive from Tepic’s airport. This new route offers travellers an alternative point of access to explore the vibrant landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural tapestry that make Nayarit one of Mexico’s most captivating regions.
This winter, Air Canada will offer over 80,000 weekly seats on more than 55 daily flights to 52 destinations in Latin America and the Caribbean, representing the greatest number of sun destinations the airline has served.
Air Canada’s flights to Peru:
Flight
From
To
Depart
Arrive
Days of Operation
Season
AC 88
Montreal (YUL)
Lima (LIM)
18:00
02:15 (+1 day)
Wed, Sat
Dec. 6, 2025 – Mar. 25, 2026
AC 89
Lima (LIM)
Montreal (YUL)
08:00
16:20
Wed, Sat
Dec. 6, 2025 – Mar. 28, 2026
AC 86
Toronto (YYZ)
Lima (LIM)
22:10
06:10 (+1 day)
Tue, Fri
Dec. 5, 2025 – Mar. 27, 2026
AC 87
Lima (LIM)
Toronto (YYZ)
08:00
15:55
Thu, Sun
Dec. 7, 2025 – Mar. 26, 2026
Air Canada’s new Central America and Mexico winter routes:
Flight
From
To
Depart
Arrive
Days of Operation
Season
AC1876
Montreal (YUL)
Belize (BZE)
17:45
22:05
Mon
Dec. 8, 2025-Apr. 6, 2026
AC1877
Belize (BZE)
Montreal (YUL)
11:00
16:40
Tue
Dec. 9, 2025-Apr. 7, 2026
AC1895
Toronto (YYZ)
Puerto Escondido (PXM)*
10:10
13:43
Wed
Dec.17, 2025 -Apr. 8, 2026
AC1894
Puerto Escondido (PXM)
Toronto (YYZ)
14:45
21:24
Wed
Dec.17, 2025 -Apr. 8, 2026
AC1350
Vancouver (YVR)
Tepic, Riviera Nayarit (TPQ)*
09:45
15:45
Wed
Dec.17, 2025 -Apr. 8, 2026
AC1351
Tepic, Riviera Nayarit (TPQ)
Vancouver (YVR)
16:45
20:55
Wed
Dec.17, 2025 -Apr. 8, 2026
*The sale of air tickets in these routes is subject and condition to the prior authorization of the government of Mexico.
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. For additional information, please see Air Canada’s TCFD disclosure. Air Canada shares are publicly traded on the TSX in Canada and the OTCQX in the US.
Increased service to Latin America, the Caribbean and Asia complements added capacity for key Canadian cities
CALGARY, AB, July 7, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet revealed its 2025/2026 winter schedule, featuring five new destinations. While departures will increase by three per cent year-over-year, capacity will be consistent with last winter, as seats will be removed from former Sunwing/Swoop aircraft, which will be updated to WestJet’s standard configuration before the start of winter.
This winter, WestJet will operate 305 total routes and serve 62 Latin American, Caribbean, and US sun destinations, delivering more affordable opportunities for Canadians to escape the cold and enjoy sun-filled getaways. With both flight-only options through WestJet, and vacation packages through Sunwing Vacations Group, WestJet leads sun travel from Canada.
“Canadians want value while escaping the cold, and WestJet’s 2025/2026 winter schedule delivers on both affordability and choice,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. “By expanding our sun network, strengthening key routes and growing strategically across Canada and internationally, WestJet is coming through for Canadians by connecting them to the destinations they love at prices they can afford. In fact, 71 per cent of WestJet’s non-stop services are currently priced lower than they were in 2024.”
New destinations and routes
The schedule adds new destinations Panama City, Panama; Guadalajara, Mexico; Tepic (Nayarit), Mexico; Havana, Cuba; and Managua, Nicaragua. The schedule also marks Mexico City’s first winter season of operation since becoming a year-round service.
Seat capacity across the Latin America and Caribbean region is scheduled to grow by six per cent, with popular vacation hotspots like Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic and Mexico in focus for new route growth.
New destinations
Peak frequency
Start date
End date
Calgary – Panama City
4x weekly
December 13, 2025
April 25, 2026
Calgary – Guadalajara
2x weekly
December 7, 2025
April 12, 2026
Calgary – Tepic (Nayarit)
1x weekly
December 13, 2025
April 25, 2026
Montréal – Managua
1x weekly
December 18, 2025
April 2, 2026
Toronto – Havana
2x weekly
December 18, 2025
April 23, 2026
New routes
Peak frequency
Start date
End date
Calgary – Cozumel
1x weekly
December 20, 2025
April 11, 2026
Calgary – Puerto Plata
1x weekly
December 14, 2025
April 12, 2026
Vancouver – Liberia
1x weekly
December 12, 2025
April 24, 2026
Montréal – Samaná
2x weekly
December 11, 2025
April 12, 2026
Québec City – Montego Bay
1x weekly
December 6, 2025
April 11, 2026
Thunder Bay – Punta Cana
1x weekly
December 16, 2025
April 7, 2026
Winnipeg – Liberia
1x weekly
December 19, 2025
April 25, 2026
Returning routes for Winter 2025/26
Samaná, Dominican Republic, previously offered only through Sunwing Airlines, will now be offered by WestJet, connecting guests to one of the Caribbean’s fastest-growing eco-tourism regions, known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. WestJet also returns service to four additional routes, while restarting seasonal service to dozens of Canada’s favourite winter destinations.
Route
Peak frequency
Start date
End date
Calgary – Mexico City
4x weekly
Year-round service extension
Edmonton – Montego Bay
1x weekly
November 2, 2025
April 12, 2026
Québec City – San Andrés
1x weekly
December 8, 2025
April 6, 2026
Toronto – Samaná
1x weekly
December 11, 2025
April 23, 2026
Strengthening Asia connectivity
In addition to sun expansion, WestJet is continuing its growth in international markets. Service between the airline’s global hub in Calgary and Tokyo (Narita) will increase from three to seven flights per week, enabling daily connectivity to Asia and contributing to 18 per cent year-over-year in intercontinental growth.
“We’re prioritizing flexibility, optionality and value to meet Canadians’ demand to visit warm weather destinations. With a peak of over 4,300 weekly departures to 106 destinations planned this winter, there’s something for everyone!” added Weatherill.
WestJet’s full winter 2025/26 schedule is available for booking from July 14, 2025.
Additional quotes
Panama City (PTY) – Gloria De León Zubieta, Minister of Tourism of Panama.
“We are pleased to welcome WestJet’s upcoming service between Calgary and Panama City, which represents more than a new route, it is an opportunity for Panama to further connect with a high value market like Canada and continue positioning itself as a strategic hub in the region. This connection supports our national goal of attracting more international visitors, and showcasing Panama as a destination that bridges continents, cultures, and opportunities,” stated Gloria De León Zubieta, Minister of Tourism of Panama.
Tepic/Nayarit (TPQ) – Javier García Bejos, CEO of AME (Aeropuertos Mexicanos)
“This new direct service from Calgary represents much more than just an air connection: This is the result of years of work in conjunction with WestJet, a strategic airline in the Canadian market and a key player in the international expansion of the Riviera Nayarit. Thanks to the new Riviera Nayarit International Airport and historic levels of investment in the regional infrastructure, we can now offer a modern, efficient gateway that is perfectly connected to Mexico’s top destinations such as Sayulita, Tequila, Punta Mita, and San Blas, with travel times shorter than ever before.
The region is undergoing an unprecedented transformation: tourism is growing, investment is flowing, and we are laying the foundations for sustainable, inclusive, and high-value development in Nayarit.”
Tepic/Nayarit (TPQ) – Miguel Ángel Navarro Quintero, Governor of Nayarit
“We are pleased to announce the launch of a new direct route between Calgary and the Tepic–Riviera Nayarit International Airport, operated by WestJet. This historic flight marks the first direct connection between Canada and the state of Nayarit, representing a major milestone in the expansion of international tourism to the region. This new route makes it easier for Canadian travelers to explore the rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and sunny beaches of the Riviera Nayarit and the entire state. We look forward to welcoming more visitors to experience the warmth, beauty, and vibrant traditions that make Nayarit a truly unique destination.”
Guadalajara (GDL) – Raúl Revuelta Musalem, CEO of Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico
“The launch of this new route to Calgary, operated by a renowned airline like WestJet, not only expands travel options but also drives an increase in tourist arrivals to the state of Jalisco. In line with our expansion plans, we continue to create optimal conditions for Guadalajara Airport to position itself as a strategic hub for operations targeting the Canadian market,” said Raúl Revuelta Musalem, CEO of Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico.
Havana (HAV) – Cuban Aviation Corporation
“The Cuban Aviation Corporation enthusiastically welcomes the announcement of WestJet’s operations to Havana this winter. This new service represents a significant step in strengthening ties between Canada and Cuba, and will facilitate the access of more Canadian visitors to the Cuban capital, contributing to the recovery and revitalization of the national tourism sector.
We warmly welcome WestJet and wish it every success in this new era, convinced that its presence will contribute to the sustainable growth of tourism and aviation in Cuba.”
“WestJet’s 2025/2026 winter schedule marks a pivotal moment for our growing belly cargo operations,” said Amanda Ierfino, WestJet Vice-President, Sales and Cargo. ” With expanded capacity and increasing momentum, we expect strong cargo demand across new routes to Guadalajara, Managua, Samaná and Havana. The launch of daily service to Tokyo is particularly exciting, as it presents robust two-way trade potential in high-value sectors such as electronics, automotive components, machinery and premium perishables like seafood and fresh fruit.”
About WestJet
WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia.
As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians.
Learn more about WestJet at westjet.com/en-ca/who-we-are (also available in French)
