VANCOUVER, BC, July 7, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced its winter 2025/2026 schedule, strengthening its commitment to British Columbia through the launch of all-new, non-stop seasonal service between Vancouver and Liberia, Costa Rica and enhanced frequency on seven domestic routes. Victoria International Airport will see an overall seat capacity increase of 10 per cent, while Kelowna International Airport will see an overall increase of 11 per cent.
“WestJet’s 2025/2026 B.C. winter schedule reflects our commitment to making air travel more accessible and affordable for Western Canadians,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “By increasing domestic frequencies across British Columbia and introducing new sun service to Costa Rica, we’re giving our guests more choice and flexibility so they can connect with loved ones, explore new destinations or escape the cold, all with the convenience and value they expect from WestJet.”
Route
Peak weekly frequency
Start date
Increase over winter 2024
Vancouver – Liberia
1x weekly
December 12
New service
Vancouver – Kelowna*
55x weekly
Year-round
53 per cent
Vancouver – Victoria*
35x weekly
Year-round
25 per cent
Vancouver – Nanaimo*
6x weekly
Year-round
50 per cent
Vancouver – Cranbrook*
5x weekly
Year-round
67 per cent
Kelowna – Puerto Vallarta*
4x weekly
October 26
33 per cent
Kelowna – Calgary*
66x weekly
Year-round
27 per cent
Kelowna – Edmonton*
27x weekly
Year-round
42 per cent
Kelowna – Toronto*
5x weekly
Year-round
67 per cent
Victoria – Kelowna*
5x weekly
Year-round
67 per cent
Victoria – Edmonton*
13x weekly
Year-round
44 per cent
*New frequency available July 14
Sunwing Vacations expands package options
The WestJet Group continues to offer enhanced vacation packages through Sunwing Vacations Group’s tour operating and retail brands, including WestJet Vacations. Vacation seekers can enjoy seamless, affordable holiday travel with the added benefit of WestJet’s industry-leading hospitality by booking on WestJet.com, Sunwing.ca or WestJet.com/en-ca/vacations.
Additional quotes
“We are seeing strong demand for service to Costa Rica from YVR and are delighted that WestJet will be providing important connectivity for our region with the launch of its new service from Vancouver to Liberia,” said Mike McNaney, Vice President and Chief External Affairs Officer at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). “WestJet’s Liberia route will mark the only non-stop scheduled service to Central America from Vancouver, which is a key addition to WestJet’s network at YVR and offers new opportunities for trade and tourism that benefit our community and the economy that supports it.”
“This increase in WestJet flights for the winter schedule to key destinations of Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto and Vancouver, demonstrates WestJet’s continued dedication to Okanagan region. The increase in domestic frequency not only offers greater convenience and flexible travel options, but also strengthens Kelowna’s connectivity to international destinations,” says Sam Samaddar, CEO, Kelowna International Airport. “The significant increase to the winter schedule will benefit our local community by attracting more visitors to enjoy everything our region has to offer, spurring local tourism and business.”
“We are pleased to see WestJet’s continued confidence in our market, as reflected in this expanded winter schedule. Increased frequency on key domestic routes will significantly enhance regional connectivity for Vancouver Island residents, making it easier to access more destinations and opportunities. We greatly value our strong partnership with WestJet and look forward to welcoming even more travellers through Victoria International Airport,” said Elizabeth Brown, President and CEO, Victoria Airport Authority.
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)
May 10, 2025, marks a proud milestone—25 years of connecting travelers to the very heart of our beautiful province, Victoria, British Columbia.
Since launching in 2000 with our inaugural flights to Vancouver, our Victoria base has grown into our second-largest hub in the Pacific Coastal Airlines network. Over the years, we’ve continued to expand our services to meet the evolving needs of Victoria’s residents and surrounding communities. In 2015, we added routes to Kelowna and Prince George—introducing Prince George as a brand-new destination on our map. By 2023, we further enhanced connectivity with a non-stop service to Kamloops. Today, Victoria stands as a central meeting point linking four major cities across British Columbia.
But to us, Victoria is far more than a destination. It’s a city of rich heritage, charming Victorian architecture, lush green spaces, and boundless outdoor adventures. We are honoured to connect travelers to a place that sits atop so many travel wish lists.
This 25-year milestone is a testament to our unwavering commitment to customer loyalty, exceptional service, and a seamless travel experience. We are deeply grateful to our passengers for their continued trust and support. Thanks to you, we are proud to have served Victoria—on land and in the skies—for a quarter of a century.
New service is the only route connecting the two capital cities
May 15, 2025 – TORONTO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Porter Airlines is further enhancing its cross-Canada service with the launch of new non-stop service between Ottawa International Airport (YOW) and Victoria International Airport (YYJ). The new service is the only route connecting the two capitals.
Flights begin with four weekly roundtrips, increasing to daily roundtrips on June 16. Operated by Porter’s 132-seat Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, all flights feature a two-by-two seat configuration, meaning no middle seats for any passenger.
The scheduled flight times are as follows:
Route
Departure
Arrival
Ottawa to Victoria
8:40 a.m.
11:00 a.m.
Victoria to Ottawa
11:55 a.m.
7:40 p.m.
All times local
Porter is the only airline offering non-stop flights between these two cities and uniquely provides travellers an elevated economy experience. The launch is marked with special promotions at both Ottawa and Victoria airports, in collaboration with Victoria’s Fairmont Empress and Ottawa’s Fairmont Château Laurier. These iconic hotels reflect the elegance and heritage of each capital city, making them fitting ambassadors for this new connection. Passengers travelling on these inaugural flights have an opportunity to win a future getaway, including two roundtrip flights on Porter and a two-night stay at the Fairmont in their arrival city.
Porter’s elevated economy experience includes complimentary beer and wine served in glassware, premium Canadian snacks, and fast, free WiFi on board. PorterReserve fares offer added benefits such as fresh meals, two checked bags, extra legroom, and priority services. Travellers can also choose their preferred enhancements à la carte through PorterClassic.
Connections to Porter’s Eastern Canada network via Ottawa include Halifax, Charlottetown, Fredericton, and St. John’s. Flights are available for booking at flyporter.com.
Quotes “This route is a natural connection between two cities that share deep national significance and tourism appeal. We’re proud to be the only airline offering non-stop service between Ottawa and Victoria, providing travellers with a more efficient and enjoyable way to move across the country.”
– Andrew Pierce, vice president, network planning and reporting, Porter Airlines
“We are excited to welcome Porter’s non-stop service to Victoria, British Columbia, and another opportunity to connect Ottawa-Gatineau travellers with iconic Canadian destinations. Porter’s continued growth and investment at YOW confirms the importance of the Ottawa-Gatineau market but also opens Canada’s west coast to passengers from the east with easy connections.”
– Susan Margles, President and CEO, Ottawa International Airport Authority
“Direct service between Victoria and Ottawa is a welcome new connection between two of Canada’s capital cities. From federal engagement to tourism and exploration, Porter Airlines’ new service offers convenience, efficiency, and a uniquely Canadian travel experience. We’re excited to welcome more visitors to Vancouver Island, and equally excited to make it easier for our community to explore the heart of our nation.”
– Elizabeth Brown, President and CEO, Victoria Airport Authority
“Destination Greater Victoria was delighted to partner and invest in the efforts to launch this service through its Air Route Development program. This connection will be fantastic to connect two great capital cities and very helpful in our efforts to continue to boost the meetings and conferences business along with tourism on the South Island as a whole.”
– Paul Nursey, CEO, Destination Greater Victoria
About Porter Since 2006, Porter Airlines has been elevating the experience of economy air travel for every passenger, providing genuine hospitality with style, care and charm. Porter’s fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft serves a North American network from Eastern Canada. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®. Visit www.flyporter.com
TORONTO / March 31, 2025 – Porter Airlines is updating its 2025 summer schedule. Increases in capacity are spread across new destinations, the continuation of winter routes into summer, and added frequencies. Domestic flying during this period is now 80% of total network capacity, up from 75% in its original summer plan. This is balanced by targeted frequency reductions in select U.S. markets. Despite the changes, Porter’s presence in the Canada-U.S. market will be 25% larger than last summer.
The summer schedule is supported by 10 additional Embraer E195-E2 aircraft compared to 2024, growing the number of jets in the airline’s fleet to 44 (of an order up to 100). These operate in conjunction with the airline’s regional fleet of 29 De Havilland Dash 8-400s.
“Our goal is to fly where our customers want to travel, and this is a moment Canada is at the top of many people’s list,” said Kevin Jackson, president, Porter Airlines. “We are adding routes and increasing flights in regions across the country to meet this demand.”
The updated domestic schedule includes the following details over peak summer operations:
Route Changes
New Peak Summer Schedule
NEW Moncton – Toronto Pearson
5x weekly
Vancouver – Toronto Pearson
6x daily
Victoria – Toronto Pearson
12x weekly
Charlottetown – Toronto Pearson
7x weekly
St. John’s – Toronto Pearson
14x weekly
Kelowna – Toronto Pearson
7x weekly
Deer Lake – Toronto Pearson
3x weekly
Thunder Bay – Toronto Pearson
7x weekly
Calgary – Toronto Pearson
4x daily
Montre´al – Vancouver
14x weekly
Hamilton – Vancouver
14x weekly
Hamilton – Calgary
6x weekly
Hamilton – Edmonton
7x weekly
Hamilton – Halifax
7x weekly
Victoria – Ottawa
7x weekly
Halifax – Deer Lake
7x weekly
Highlights:
Toronto Pearson-Moncton is a new route, which complements existing flights between Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport-Moncton and Ottawa-Moncton.
Hamilton-Vancouver service doubles to 14 weekly flights, representative of strong pre-booking demand for this new route taking off in June.
Montre´al-Vancouver and Toronto-St. John’s both double planned service to 14 weekly flights.
“These routes complement existing schedules by creating more non-stop flight options and greater connectivity for travelling beyond hubs in Toronto, Ottawa, Montre´al and Halifax,” added Jackson.
Porter is also launching new service between Toronto Pearson – New York-LaGuardia and Montre´al – New York-Newark this spring. This is supported by expanding winter seasonal service through the summer to destinations such as Phoenix and San Diego, and increasing year-over-year capacity for Las Vegas and San Francisco.
“Porter has increased capacity in the U.S. by 25% year-over-year. Based on our current spring bookings, the number of passengers travelling on Porter across our transborder routes is up more than our capacity, demonstrating strong traveller demand for Porter’s elevated experience. As we shift some capacity to domestic routes in the near term to account for consumer travel interest, we are still seeing an overall increase in U.S. travel on Porter flights,” said Jackson.
On every flight, passengers enjoy Porter’s signature service, including no middle seats, complimentary wine and beer served in glassware and premium snacks. Routes operated with the new Embraer E195-E2 also have free, fast WiFi available for everyone.
About Porter Airlines Since 2006, Porter Airlines has been elevating the experience of economy air travel for every passenger, providing genuine hospitality with style, care and charm. Porter’s fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft serves a North American network from Eastern Canada. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®. Visit www.flyporter.com
Porter Expands in Ottawa With New Victoria Service
January 28, 2025 10:52 AM Eastern Standard Time
TORONTO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Porter Airlines’ Ottawa network continues to grow with the addition of a new nonstop route to Western Canada. Starting May 15, 2025, service between Ottawa International Airport (YOW) and Victoria International Airport (YYJ) will operate for the summer season with up to four weekly roundtrip flights.
The British Columbia capital is the second destination in the province, joining Vancouver, with direct routes to Ottawa. The initial schedule is as follows:
Route
Departure
Arrival
Days of Operation
Ottawa (YOW) to Victoria (YYJ)
8:35 a.m.
10:55 a.m.
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Victoria (YYJ) to Ottawa (YOW)
11:50 a.m.
7:35 p.m.
All times are local
Flights will be operated on Porter’s 132-seat Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, providing an elevated economy experience for all passengers, with no middle seats, free, fast WiFi, and complimentary beer, wine, and snacks for everyone. For travellers looking for an all-inclusive experience, the PorterReserve fare includes fresh, healthy meals, enhanced legroom, dedicated check-in, and two checked bags, amongst other perks. The same options are available for purchase à la carte under the PorterClassic fare.
This is the 20th nonstop route available from Ottawa. Connections for Victoria are available through Ottawa to Porter’s Eastern Canada network, including Halifax, Charlottetown, Fredericton, and St. John’s.
The service complements Porter’s existing Toronto-Victoria route. Currently operating one daily roundtrip, the route increases to 10 weekly roundtrips in May.
For more information and detailed schedules, visit www.flyporter.com.
Quotes “Ottawa continues to be a growing market for us. This route provides more passengers the opportunity to discover Porter’s award-winning elevated economy experience. With Victoria as our latest addition, travellers now have more options to fly across the country with us.” — Andrew Pierce, vice president network planning and reporting, Porter Airlines
“We are excited to welcome another route connecting Ottawa non-stop to British Columbia. Porter’s new service to Victoria will provide ‘capital’ coverage from coast-to-coast through YOW. This service is ideal for both origin and destination travellers, as well as those making connections at YOW for places beyond.” — Joel Tkach, Vice President, Business Development, Marketing and Customer Transportation
About Porter Since 2006, Porter Airlines has been elevating the experience of economy air travel for every passenger, providing genuine hospitality with style, care and charm. Porter’s fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft serves a North American network from Eastern Canada. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®. Visit www.flyporter.com
Enhanced domestic, transborder and intercontinental connections pave the way for cross-country economic growth and expanded opportunities for business and leisure travel
CALGARY, AB, Nov. 18, 2024 /CNW/ – Today WestJet announced its complete summer schedule for 2025, featuring 10 per cent growth network wide and domestic growth of 12 per cent. As the airline introduces two new domestic and three new transborder destinations, along with 11 new routes across its network, WestJet is actively pursuing its strategy to improve air travel accessibility and affordability across Canada.
“WestJet’s expanded summer schedule reflects our continued commitment to connecting Canadians by increasing our domestic and international capacity. In Canada alone we are growing capacity by 12 percent, operating to 41 airports with over 3,000 weekly departures,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Group, Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “Offering more options for business and leisure travel, we’re excited to see our guests’ stories take off this summer as we ensure Canadians have affordable and reliable access to visit the people and destinations they love.”
This summer, WestJet will deliver double-digit increases in total seat capacity across 10 major Canadian airports:
Canadian destination
Capacity increase over summer 2024
Calgary
11 per cent
Edmonton
23 per cent
Kelowna
15 per cent
Montreal
31 per cent
Ottawa
36 per cent
Regina
23 per cent
Saskatoon
19 per cent
Vancouver
12 per cent
Victoria
18 per cent
Winnipeg
19 per cent
Providing greater air access to Canadians
WestJet will welcome two new domestic destinations to its network this summer with direct and exclusive service to Calgary. These new domestic routes enhance opportunities for Canadians to explore the country along with increased access to connect onwards to WestJet’s vast network of global destinations, through its global hub in Calgary.
New destinations
Sudbury, Ontario: Bringing two-times weekly service to the largest metropolitan area in Canada currently without WestJet operations, the airline is opening a highly-anticipated gateway for Northern Ontario communities to connect to Western Canada for business and leisure getaways this summer;
Sydney, Nova Scotia: In alignment with WestJet’s strategy, the airline continues to strengthen its seamless connectivity between Atlantic and Western Canada, with the addition of two-times weekly service between Sydney and Calgary.
Domestic summer schedule highlights
Route
Peak weekly frequency
Start date
End date
Summer service change
Calgary-Sudbury
2x weekly
June 12
October 19
Returning destination
Calgary-Sydney
2x weekly
June 10
October 18
Returning destination
Significant expansion of service to the United States
Introducing three new U.S. destinations to its Alberta network this summer, WestJet continues to enhance its transborder service, providing convenient opportunities for Canadians to access their favourite leisure and business destinations north and south of the border.
New destinations
Anchorage, Alaska: Launching two-times weekly service between Calgary and Anchorage, Canadians connecting via the airline’s hub, will gain coveted seasonal access to Alaska’s incredible recreational landscapes and popular cruise opportunities;
Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina: Providing three-times weekly access between Calgary and one of the fastest-growing U.S. cities, WestJet will give Western Canadians seamless access to a thriving business hub, home to leading companies in healthcare, education and technology;
Salt Lake City, Utah: In addition to providing non-stop access to Utah’s scenic landscapes, WestJet’s new five-times weekly service between Edmonton and Salt Lake City will be monumental for business and leisure travellers.
In addition, WestJet will significantly grow Western Canada’s summer connectivity to Florida, introducing four new routes to the sunshine state.
Transborder summer schedule highlights
Route
Frequency
Start date
End date
Summer service change
Calgary-Raleigh- Durham
3x weekly
June 9
October 13
New destination
Calgary- Anchorage
2x weekly
June 29
September 7
New destination
Calgary- Minneapolis
4x weekly
May 16
September 3
New route
Calgary-Fort Lauderdale
1x weekly
Year-round service
Winter service extension
Calgary-Tampa
1x weekly
Year-round service
Winter service extension
Edmonton-Salt Lake City
5x weekly
May 15
October 24
New destination
Edmonton- Chicago
3x weekly
June 4
October 22
New route
Vancouver- Boston
Daily
June 9
October 13
New route
Vancouver – Tampa
1x weekly
June 14
October 25
New route
Winnipeg- Orlando
1x weekly
Year-round service
Winter extension
Kelowna-Seattle
7x weekly
Year-round service
Winter extension
WestJet builds trade and tourism potential with enhanced access to Delta hubs
WestJet is growing transborder service by 11 per cent this summer, operating to 29 airports with over 900 weekly departures, and continuing to enhance its connectivity from across Canada to Delta Air Line’s major U.S. hubs. Through WestJet’s longstanding partnership with Delta, guests connecting through Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New York City, Salt Lake City and Seattle will gain access to a vast network of U.S. destinations on a single purchased ticket with check-in for all flights at first departure, baggage tagged to their final destination and lounge access for select guests.
Continued expansion to Europe and Asia
Growing its transatlantic service from Eastern Canada, WestJet will introduce non-stop connectivity between St. John’s and Paris and welcome back service between Halifax and Paris and St. John’s and Dublin, this summer. Additionally, WestJet will enhance its existing transatlantic connectivity, beginning its service between Halifax and Edinburgh and Dublin one month earlier than 2024, while increasing St. John’s previous service to London (Gatwick) from three-times weekly to four-times weekly.
Growing its global hub’s transpacific service, WestJet will maintain its daily service to Tokyo this summer, while increasing Calgary’s capacity serving Incheon.
Route
Frequency
Start date
End date
Summer service change
Transatlantic
St. John’s – Paris
1x weekly
May 18
October 19
New route
St. John’s – Dublin
2x weekly
May 22
October 23
Returning route
St. John’s – London (Gatwick)
4x weekly
April 28
October 25
Increase frequency
Halifax – Paris
4x weekly
May 16
October 25
Returning route
Halifax – Edinburgh
3x weekly
May 15
October 14
Service extension
Halifax – Dublin
4x weekly
May 20
October 13
Service extension
Transpacific
Calgary – Incheon
4x weekly
March 31
October 19
Increase frequency
Planning for growth
The acquisition of nine leased Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, along with Swoop and Sunwing planes, allows the airline to bolster its strategic fleet growth, while managing delays for direct-from-factory aircraft. Updating and refreshing the interior cabins of all of these aircraft will be prioritized as part of the airline’s existing fleet reconfiguration plans, to ensure a consistent experience for guests across its operation as soon as possible.
To support the ongoing schedule enhancements across its growing network, WestJet has recently reaffirmed its commitment to providing world-class reliable air travel all year long. To learn more about the enhancements being made to fortify WestJet’s operational resiliency, visit the WestJet Newsroom.
Additional quotes
“We are thrilled to continue enhancing connectivity for guests travelling through YYC Calgary International Airport with WestJet’s new routes and increased service to a number of exciting destinations,” said Balázs Bogats, Chief Commercial Officer for The Calgary Airport Authority. “These additions create more opportunities for travellers to explore new sights and experiences, while bringing greater access to Calgary, the Rocky Mountains and Western Canada. Our close partnership with WestJet enables us to deliver exceptional travel experiences and support future growth for our community and region.”
“We are thrilled to welcome WestJet’s new service between Anchorage and Calgary. This route strengthens our connection to Canada, offering travelers more convenience and opportunities to explore everything both Anchorage and Calgary have to offer. WestJet’s commitment to this market reflects the growing demand for seamless travel options, and we are proud to support this expansion. Anchorage International Airport is dedicated to fostering connections that benefit our community, our economy, and the region as a whole. We look forward to a successful partnership with WestJet and encourage travelers to take advantage of this exciting new service,” said Angie Spear, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Director.
“We’re excited to welcome RDU’s first nonstop route to Calgary on Canadian airline WestJet,” said Michael Landguth, president and CEO of the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority. “This new seasonal service offers Triangle travelers convenient opportunities to visit the Rockies in Western Canada and easily connect to WestJet’s comprehensive network of Canadian and international destinations.”
About WestJet In 28 years of serving Canadians, WestJet has cut airfares in half and increased the flying population in Canada to more than 50 per cent. WestJet launched in 1996 with three aircraft, 250 employees and five destinations, growing over the years to more than 14,000 employees, 200 aircraft, and more than 100 destinations in 25 countries.
For more information about everything WestJet, please visit westjet.com.
North America’s largest seaplane airline launched their first-ever wheeled flight between Vancouver International Airport’s (YVR) South Terminal and YYJ Victoria International Airport, providing local commuters with new convenient early morning and late evening travel options.
VANCOUVER, B.C., November 4, 2024 – Harbour Air, North America’s largest seaplane airline, today debuted their first-ever wheeled flight between Vancouver International Airport’s (YVR) South Terminal and YYJ Victoria International Airport. The seaplane airline’s new wheeled flight service provides travelers with an additional 3 daily round-trip flights Monday-Friday, and new convenient early morning and late evening flights between Vancouver and Victoria airports starting from just $99 one-way.
With the addition of wheeled aircraft, Harbour Air is responding to increased market demand from local and business travelers for early morning and late evening flights outside of daylight hours. The airline has converted two 19-seat Twin Otter aircraft to have wheels and de-icing equipment installed, which will enable flying during inclement weather conditions thereby improving reliability.
The first wheeled flight departed early Monday morning from Vancouver International Airport’s (YVR) South Terminal en route to YYJ Victoria International Airport. Prior to departure, a cedar brushing ceremony was performed for the aircraft by Musqueam Nation elders, followed by a Musqueam Nation traditional land acknowledgement, Harbour Air speech and ribbon cutting ceremony at the departure gate to welcome the first passengers.
Upon arrival at YYJ Victoria International Airport, the first wheeled flight was greeted by a traditional water cannon salute before it deplaned the flight’s first passengers. Following this, a W̱SÁNEĆ Nations traditional land acknowledgement, Harbour Air speech and ribbon cutting ceremony were held at YYJ Victoria International Airport’s departure gate to welcome the first passengers flying from Victoria to Vancouver.
“Today was a momentous occasion for Harbour Air as we celebrated the launch of our new wheeled flight service,” states Chris Fordyce, VP Commercial at Harbour Air. “With the combination of both wheeled and seaplane flights, Harbour Air will offer more daily frequencies than any other airline along this route. We look forward to welcoming guests aboard our wheeled flights throughout the winter months and beyond.”
Harbour Air is North America’s largest seaplane airline and the world’s first commercial airline flying a prototype electric aircraft. The company’s international seaplane service is a quintessential west coast experience, expanded by two 19-seater Twin Otter aircraft operating wheeled service between Vancouver (YVR) and Victoria (YYJ). With a fleet of 45 aircraft, Harbour Air offers up to 300 daily scheduled flights, scenic tours, adventure packages, and private flights. With 12 scheduled destinations connecting downtown Vancouver, Richmond/YVR, Victoria Harbour Airport, Seattle (WA), Nanaimo, Tofino, Whistler, Sechelt, Salt Spring Island, Powell River, Comox, and Victoria International Airport (YYJ), Harbour Air transports around 500,000 passengers every year. For more information, visit www.harbourair.com
Discover new destinations with Harbour Air! Now flying to Salt Spring Island, Patricia Bay, Whistler, Comox, and the iconic Butchart Gardens “Flights ‘N’ Flowers” Tour (all-inclusive tour with 2hr admission).
Our summer seat sale is here! Get 20% off all base fares using promo code “Summer24” starting at 11:00 am PST, May 29th – June 2nd for all scheduled flights June 3rd – 27th.
Experience the convenience and flexibility of increased availability on our many routes, with fares starting from as low as $79.
Travelers can plan their summer adventure by booking tickets directly at www.harbourair.com
VANCOUVER, BC, May 29, 2024– Harbour Air, North America’s leading seaplane airline, is excited to announce the launch of new flight routes and destinations, a summer seat sale, expanded flight availability, and a new tour package, which will provide guests with additional travel options and tourism experiences throughout the summer season. Tickets can be booked directly at www.harbourair.com.
The new routes include direct flights from Vancouver, Victoria, and Richmond (YVR South) to Salt Spring Island and Whistler, along with direct flights from Vancouver to Patricia Bay (Victoria International Airport), and an exclusive tour package featuring round-trip flights from Vancouver to the world-famous Butchart Gardens, including admission. In addition, Harbour Air is also increasing flight capacity on existing routes to support customer demand throughout the summer.
“As we approach the busy summer season, we’re ramping up our flight availability and destinations to provide guests with more travel options and tour packages that meet their commuting and tourism needs,” said Chris Fordyce, VP of Commercial at Harbour Air. “To celebrate the expansion, we are offering 20% off so our customers have another reason to experience this new and improved network. We look forward to welcoming guests aboard to experience one of our quick and convenient flights to their preferred travel destinations throughout B.C.”
Harbour Air’s summer seat sale provides travelers with 20% off base fares as follows:
Using promo code “Summer24” when booking tickets from May 29th to June 2nd
Discount valid for all scheduled flights & tiers (Flex/Comfort/Value/Light) on travel dates between June 3rd to June 27th.
Harbour Air’s new routes for the summer season include direct flights for:
Vancouver, Victoria and Richmond to Salt Spring Island (Ganges Harbour)
Vancouver to Patricia Bay / Victoria International Airport
Victoria and Richmond (YVR South) to Whistler
Vancouver to Comox
Victoria to Tofino
Vancouver to the Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island, an exclusive tour package including a round-trip flight and 2-hour admission to explore the garden grounds
Harbour Air is also increasing flight availability across the following existing routes:
Vancouver to Victoria, Tofino, Whistler, Nanaimo, Maple Bay, Powell River, Seattle, and Sechelt
Richmond (YVR South) to Victoria, Tofino, Whistler, Nanaimo, Powell River, and Sechelt
Salt Spring Island to Maple Bay
Sechelt to Nanaimo
“Harbour Air’s new routes, Butchart Garden tour package, and expanded flight availability across existing routes provides travelers with numerous ways to quickly and easily explore B.C.,” adds Richard Porges, CEO at Destination BC. “This expanded service helps to promote these exciting destinations to more travelers, through stunning scenic flights and exceptional tourism experiences that Harbour Air is known for.”
For more information about Harbour Air’s routes and schedules, tourism packages, or to book tickets, visit www.harbourair.com. Experience the exceptional service and convenience of Harbour Air and book your flight today.
About Harbour Air
Harbour Air is North America’s largest Seaplane airline. The company’s international seaplane service is a quintessential west coast experience. With a fleet of 45 aircraft, Harbour Air offers up to 300 daily scheduled flights, scenic tours, adventure packages, and private flights. With over 12 scheduled destinations connecting downtown Vancouver, Victoria, Seattle (WA), Nanaimo, Tofino, Whistler, Vancouver Airport/Richmond, Sechelt, Salt Spring Island, Powell River and Comox, B.C. Harbour Air transports around 500,000 passengers every year. For more information, visit www.harbourair.com
The event took place at the new construction site, located near the Airside Operations Centre, with representatives from NAV CANADA, the Airport Authority, as well as from municipal government and industry, following the fall 2022 announcement for the construction of the new Tower.
“NAV CANADA is consistently working to update its essential infrastructure. The new tower will enhance service delivery with improved control tower sight lines over the airfield,” says Raymond Bohn, President and CEO, NAV CANADA. “Additionally, to support our net-zero goals by 2050, we are adopting comprehensive strategies to ensure the sustainability of our new facilities”.
Designed in collaboration with the Victoria Airport Authority, NAV CANADA’s first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified Tower will be powered by green power from BC Hydro to operate with zero GHG emissions, aside from its emergency power generator.
The focus on sustainability doesn’t end with the building itself. NAV CANADA is taking a step further by incorporating indigenous bushes, natural grasses, and wildflowers to restore Garry Oak Meadow in the tower’s landscaping, which is one of the most endangered ecosystems in Canada. To minimize the attraction of birds for aviation safety reasons, only plants that do not yield fruits or berries have been selected as part of the landscaping project. The control tower property will also feature permeable pavers in the parking area, which allow water to soak through them to minimize ground water run-off and reduce the risk of flooding.
“The services that NAV CANADA provides for the complex airspace in our region is essential for the safe operation of the Victoria International Airport (YYJ) and this investment will enhance air navigational services for years to come,” says Elizabeth M. Brown, VAA President and CEO. “This new state-of-the-art facility will not only improve aviation safety and efficiency but will also highlight the many ways thoughtful and sustainable design can be employed in non-traditional developments and facilities that serve unique functions. The various design elements that have been incorporated align with many of the goals in YYJ’s Sustainability Plan and we look forward to seeing the building in operation.”
The Construction of the new Victoria Tower begins in spring 2024 and it is expected to be completed by 2027. The tower will have a total height of 27.7m and a total gross floor area of 791.4 square meters.
About NAV CANADA
NAV CANADA is a private, not-for-profit company, established in 1996, providing air traffic control, airport advisory services, weather briefings and aeronautical information services for more than 18 million square kilometres of Canadian domestic and international airspace. The Company is internationally recognized for its safety record, and technology innovation.
About VAA
Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is the 11th busiest airport in Canada and has been rated one of the top ten most-loved airports in the world by CNN Travel. Winner of the Best Regional Airport in North America award by Airports Council International in 2012, 2014, and 2020, YYJ provides a safe, secure, sustainable, and efficient airport that creates prosperity for our region by connecting Greater Victoria with the world. Victoria Airport Authority has managed the operations at YYJ on behalf of the surrounding communities since April 1, 1997.
As Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) prepares for growth, it will be increasing its Airport Improvement Fee (AIF) from the current $15.00 per departing passenger to $25.00, for all tickets sold on or after April 1, 2024, for travel from the airport after May 1, 2024.
Last adjusted in 2015, AIF funds have supported significant investments and improvements to passenger and airline related infrastructure in the terminal building and airfield. However, since 2015 over $15 million more has been invested in AIF-eligible capital projects than has been collected with the fee.
“Victoria International Airport is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels of passenger travel in 2025, and revenue generated by other sources will not be enough for VAA to keep up with the ongoing infrastructure and facility improvements needed to ensure a high-quality passenger experience,” said Cathie Ounsted, Victoria Airport Authority Board Chair. “Increasing the AIF will ensure that other revenue sources are available for sustainable and environmentally responsible initiatives that support commerce, tourism and community well-being across Vancouver Island.”
VAA’s Masterplan, which was released in early 2023, provides a long-term strategy for the development of the airport to meet the growth that is predicted for the region and all of Vancouver Island. The plan identified almost $600 million in capital investments that could be required, equating to an average of $30 million a year over the next 20 years.
“The increase in AIF will enable us to prepare for the anticipated growth and fiscally manage the capital investments necessary to meet the future demand and expectations of our passengers and airport service partners,” said Elizabeth M. Brown, Victoria Airport Authority President and CEO. “This increase will allow us to be both strategic and intentional with our investments in infrastructure improvements. It is important that we continue to provide an outstanding passenger experience for travellers and a welcoming airport for the community.”
As Vancouver Island’s largest airport, it is forecasted that the Victoria International Airport will reach over three million total passengers by 2042, representing 50 percent more than its peak period pre-pandemic level. The investments planned will be guided by responsible stewardship that meet future growth with exceptional facilities.
The $10.00 increase only impacts departing passengers and is administrated by the air carriers at the time of ticketing.
About Victoria Airport Authority
Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is the 11th busiest airport in Canada and has been rated one of the top ten most-loved airports in the world by CNN Travel. Winner of the Best Regional Airport in North America award by Airports Council International in 2012, 2014, and 2020, YYJ provides a safe, secure, sustainable, and efficient airport that creates prosperity for our region by connecting Greater Victoria with the world. Victoria Airport Authority has managed the operations at YYJ on behalf of the surrounding communities since April 1, 1997.
