Canadian Aviation News

News, Fleet Information, Airport Log and more

Tag: Victoria YYJ

  • Air Canada adds Tulum and Charleston to Global Network; Boosts Capacity on Key North American Markets in Summer 2024 as Airline Continues Strategic Network Growth

    • First Canadian airline to offer service to Tulum, Mexico’s newest international airport, and to Charleston, SC
    • New Montreal to Austin and St. Louis flights
    • Increased frequencies on key Canadian domestic routes and early resumption of popular seasonal routes

    MONTREAL, Dec. 14, 2023 /CNW/ – Air Canada today announced it is boosting its North American network capacity for summer 2024 with the addition of two new destinations, five new routes, increased flight frequencies on key routes, and earlier resumption of popular seasonal routes in response to projected demand. Air Canada becomes the first Canadian airline to offer service to Tulum*, with flights from Toronto and Montreal to the newest airport in Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula, and to Charleston, SC from Toronto. Seats are now available for purchase at aircanada.com, via the Air Canada app, Air Canada’s contact centres and through travel agents. Flights to Tulum will be available for sale on December 15.

    Air Canada is the first Canadian airline to offer service to Tulum, Mexico’s newest international airport, and to Charleston, SC. (CNW Group/Air Canada)

    “We are excited to add two brand new destinations to our global network, Tulum, Mexico from our Toronto and Montreal hubs, and Charleston, South Carolina from Toronto, plus new Austin and St. Louis flights from Montreal in summer 2024. These new destinations and routes reflect Air Canada’s market leadership and network diversification strategy of adding capacity to in-demand leisure destinations such as Tulum and fast-growing, key metropolitan areas in the US,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President, Revenue and Network Planning, at Air Canada.

    “We are also very pleased to grow our North American network from coast to coast with additional frequencies in key markets including Ottawa, Calgary, Saskatoon and Regina, in regional markets, and by resuming major seasonal routes earlier. By adding scale to our Canadian hubs, we are offering more travel choices and unparalleled access to and from our worldwide network. We look forward to welcoming our customers onboard,” concluded Mr. Galardo.

    For summer 2024, Air Canada will be serving 120 destinations in Canada, the US and the Caribbean with up to 520 flights every day, translating to approximately 66,000 seats being dispatched, representing an increase of 5% percent North America and Caribbean seat capacity from 2023.

    New destination: Tulum*, Mexico

    “I celebrate this great announcement from Air Canada. Without connectivity there is no tourism, and the two new routes to the new Tulum International Airport, which is ready to receive five million passengers, will boost the arrival of tourists from our second most important source market for international tourists,” stated Lic. Miguel Torruco Marqués, Secretario de Turismo, Mexico.

    FlightFromToDepartsArrivesDays of
    Operation    		Operation
    AC1854Toronto (YYZ)Tulum (TQO)08:1511:20Fri, SunYear-round, begins May 3
    AC1855Tulum (TQO)Toronto (YYZ)12:3017:35Fri, SunYear-round, begins May 3
    AC1874Montreal (YUL)Tulum (TQO)08:1512:00SatYear-round, begins May 4
    AC1875Tulum (TQO)Montreal (YUL)13:1018:45SatYear-round, begins May 4
    *subject to government approval

    New destination: Charleston, SC

    “Charleston International Airport is delighted to welcome the addition of Toronto as an international destination, made possible by the introduction of Air Canada’s daily flights providing a seamless link between Canada’s largest metropolitan area and the Charleston Lowcountry. Not only does the new service connect two of the top cosmopolitan destinations worldwide, renowned for their extraordinary landmarks, rich culture, entertainment and leisure adventures, this route offers customers unmatched travel options and conveniences, whether travelling for leisure, visiting friends and family, or for business,” said Elliott Summey, Executive Director and CEO at Charleston International Airport.

    “Air Canada’s announcement is a major milestone for our industry, the Charleston region and beyond. International visitation is integral to a healthy and sustainable tourism economy. While Canada is consistently our top country of origin for international visitors, we know there is tremendous untapped potential in the market. Beyond increasing access for leisure travelers, the daily, nonstop service creates more opportunity to recruit group business and provides improved connectivity for Charleston area residents traveling to Canada and other international destinations served through Air Canada’s Toronto hub,” said Helen Hill, CEO of Explore Charleston and Chair of the Aviation Authority Board.  

    FlightFromToDepartsArrivesDays of
    Operation    		Operation
    AC8629Toronto (YYZ)Charleston (CHS)18:4020:58DailyYear-round, begins March 28
    AC8628Charleston (CHS)Toronto (YYZ)10:0012:21DailyYear-round, begins, March 29

    Other New Flights:

    • Air Canada is adding additional new flights to Austin and St. Louis from its Montreal hub, complementing its flights from Toronto and Vancouver to Austin, and from Toronto to St. Louis.
    FlightFromToDepartsArrivesDays of
    Operation    		Operation
    AC1051Montreal (YUL)Austin (AUS)17:1520:32Mon, Tue, Thur, SatYear-round, begins May 2
    AC1050Austin (AUS)Montreal (YUL)10:1515:13Sun, Tue, Wed, FriYear-round, begins May 3
    AC8687Montreal (YUL)St. Louis (STL)19:3021:05DailySummer, begins May 1
    AC8688St. Louis (STL)Montreal (YUL)12:0015:23DailySummer, begins May 2

    North America Summer 2024 service improvements:

    • Air Canada is boosting its North American network from coast to coast with more flights added on major routes, and by resuming seasonal routes earlier.  
    • To meet projected demand, additional flights have been added to key markets including in Ottawa, Calgary, Saskatoon and Regina, as well as to growing regional markets.
    Montreal HubPeak summer 2024 service improvements
    compared to summer 2023 and seasonal
    resumptions
    Montreal (YUL) – Boston (BOS)Increases to 4 daily flights from 3
    Montreal (YUL) – Las Vegas (LAS)Increases to 2 daily flights from 1
    Montreal (YUL) – Minneapolis/St. Paul (MSP)Increases to 2 daily flights from 1
    Montreal (YUL) – Phoenix (PHX)Increases to 5 weekly flights from 3
    Montreal (YUL) – Pittsburgh (PIT)Resumes May 1, daily flights
    Montreal (YUL) – Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Resumes May 1, daily flights
    Montreal (YUL) – San Diego (SAN)Resumes May 1, daily flights
    Montreal (YUL) – Edmonton (YEG)Increases to 3 daily flights from 2
    Montreal (YUL) – Gander (YQX)Resumes June 14, daily flights
    Montreal (YUL) – Iles de La Madeleine (YGR)Resumes May 17, daily flights
    Montreal (YUL) – Victoria (YYJ)Increases to 5 weekly flights from 3
    Toronto HubPeak summer 2024 service improvements
    compared to summer 2023 and seasonal
    resumptions
    Toronto (YYZ) – Kansas City (MCI)Resumes June 1, daily flights
    Toronto (YYZ) – Nashville (BNA)Increases to 2 daily flights from 1
    Toronto (YYZ) – Phoenix (PHX)Increases to 2 daily flights from 1
    Toronto (YYZ) – Portland (PDX)Resumes May 1, daily flights
    Toronto (YYZ) – Nassau (NAS)Increases to 6 weekly flights from 4
    Toronto (YYZ) – Sacramento (SMF)Resumes May 1, 5 weekly flights
    Toronto (YYZ) – Salt Lake City (SLC)Resumes May 1, 4 weekly flights
    Toronto (YYZ) – Gander (YQX)Resumes June 1, daily flights
    Toronto (YYZ) – Vancouver (YVR)Increases to 14 daily flights from 13
    Toronto (YYZ) – Victoria (YYJ)Increases to 3 daily flights from 2
    Vancouver HubPeak summer 2024 service improvements
    compared to summer 2023 and seasonal
    resumptions
    Vancouver (YVR) – Anchorage (ANC)Resumes May 14, daily flights
    Vancouver (YVR) – Austin (AUS)Resumes May 1, increases 4 weekly flights from 2 weekly
    Vancouver (YVR) – Portland (PDX)Increases to 4 daily flights from 3
    Vancouver (YVR) – Washington Dulles (IAD)Increases to daily from 5 weekly
    Vancouver (YVR) – San Diego (SAN)Increases to 3 daily flights from 2
    Vancouver (YVR) – Sacramento (SMF)Increases to 2 daily flights from 1
    Vancouver (YVR) – Cranbrook (YXC)Increases to 2 daily flights from 1
    Vancouver (YVR) – Fort St. John (YXJ)Increases to 4 daily flights from 3
    Vancouver (YVR) – Halifax (YHZ)Resumes May 1, 2 daily flights
    Vancouver (YVR) – Prince George (YXS)Increases to 4 daily flights from 3
    Vancouver (YVR) – Terrace (YXT)Increases to 5 daily flights from 4
    Vancouver (YVR) – Toronto (YYZ)Increases to 14 daily flights from 13
    Vancouver (YVR) – Smithers (YYD)Increases to 2 daily flights from 1
    Routes from SaskatchewanPeak summer 2024 service improvements
    compared to summer 2023 and seasonal
    resumptions
    Regina (YQR) – Toronto (YYZ)Increases to 4 daily non-stop flights from 3 daily
    Regina (YQR) – Montreal (YUL)Resumes June 1, daily non-stop standalone flights from one-stop
    Saskatoon (YXE) – Toronto (YYZ)Increases to 4 daily non-stop flights from 3 daily
    Saskatoon (YXE) – Montreal (YUL)Resumes June 2, daily non-stop standalone flights from one-stop
    Saskatoon (YXE) – Vancouver (YVR)Increases to 4 daily flights from 3 daily
    Routes from other airportsPeak summer 2024 service improvements
    compared to summer 2023 and seasonal
    resumptions
    Ottawa (YOW) – Washington-National (DCA)Resumes May 1, daily flights
    Ottawa (YOW) – Calgary (YYC)Resumes May 1, daily flights
    Ottawa (YOW) – Winnipeg (YWG)Resumes May 1, daily flights
    Ottawa (YOW) – Vancouver (YVR)Operating 3 daily flights – including 1 flight with 787 Dreamliner
    Halifax (YHZ) – St. Johns (YYT)Increases to 5 daily flights from 4 daily
    Halifax (YHZ) – Vancouver (YVR)Resumes May 1, up to 2 daily flights
    Calgary (YYC) – Winnipeg (YWG)Operating 2 daily flights with larger aircraft
    Calgary (YYC) – Edmonton (YEG)Increases to 4 daily flights from 3 daily
    Edmonton (YEG) – Montreal (YUL)Increases to 3 daily flights from 2
    Victoria (YYJ) – Montreal (YUL)Increase to 5 weekly flights from 3
    Victoria (YYJ) – Toronto (YYZ)Increases to 3 daily flights from 2

    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 rewards. 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 aims to achieve an ambitious net zero emissions goal from all global operations by 2050. 

  • WestJet announces transborder connectivity between Victoria and Las Vegas

    VICTORIA, BC, Sept. 20, 2023 /CNW/ – WestJet, today announced service between Victoria and Las Vegas, reintroducing the airline’s first transborder connection from the island, for the first time since 2017. Beginning February 1, 2024, WestJet will operate non-stop service between Victoria and Las Vegas, twice weekly, as the airline continues to strengthen its investments in Western Canada through increased sun and leisure connections.

    “WestJet is proud to add our newest route to our winter schedule, and bolster Victoria’s transborder connectivity to Las Vegas. As we continue to provide guests across Canada with even more affordable and accessible opportunities to escape the cold and find the sun this winter, Victoria is an important part of our Western Canada growth plan,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer.

    RouteFrequencyEffective
    Victoria – Las Vegas2x/week Thursday and SundayFebruary 1
    Las Vegas – Victoria2x/week Thursday and SundayFebruary 1

    “We’re very excited for the return of WestJet service to Las Vegas,” said Elizabeth M. Brown, President and CEO, Victoria Airport Authority.  “This will provide residents of Greater Victoria and Vancouver Island convenient non-stop service to this popular destination.  It also demonstrates YYJ’s continued efforts to recover post-pandemic and reflects a positive sign of confidence in the Victoria marker.  We appreciate WestJet’s continued support for our region and wish them much success with this new route.”

    About WestJet

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

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

  • Porter Airlines begins flights for Victoria-Toronto Pearson route

    TORONTO, Sept. 20, 2023 /CNW/ – Porter Airlines is stretching its coast-to-coast network further with the inauguration today of service in Victoria, BC. Daily flights between Toronto Pearson Airport represent another link in a growing network of routes the airline has introduced this year with its new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft.

    The 132-seat plane features a two-by-two configuration, offering all passengers no middle seats and greater personal space. Free, fast, streaming-quality WiFi is also available, with the ability to watch and listen to personal subscription services on multiple devices. A library of movies and TV shows provides additional in-flight entertainment options.

    Porter’s distinct service includes complimentary beer and wine served in glassware, and free premium snacks available to all travellers. Fresh, healthy meals, pre-mixed cocktails and additional snack options are also available.

    “Victoria is proving to be among our most popular new markets,” said Kevin Jackson, executive vice president and chief commercial officer, Porter Airlines. “We are now truly connecting Canada’s major cities from the west with Victoria to the east in St. John’s, with many points in between. There are numerous other destinations that we intend to serve across North America as additional aircraft are delivered to us through 2024.”

    The E195-E2 has the lowest fuel consumption per seat and per trip in its class, and is the quietest single-aisle jet flying today. Sustainability also features in catering, with a priority on reducing and eventually eliminating single-use plastics onboard, providing biodegradable cups and cutlery, and eco-friendly packaging.

    The Toronto Pearson-Victoria route is scheduled to operate with the following flight times:

    RouteDepartureArrival
    Toronto-Pearson (YYZ) to Victoria (YYJ)10:55 a.m.1:04 p.m.
    Victoria (YYJ) to Toronto-Pearson (YYZ)2:00 p.m.9:31 p.m.

    Connecting flights with Ottawa, Montreal, Halifax and St. John’s are also available.

    “We’re so pleased to welcome Porter and a new Victoria-Toronto service,” said Elizabeth M. Brown, President and CEO, Victoria Airport Authority.  “It’s always a pleasure to welcome a new airline. Porter’s exceptional service is a welcome addition to the Victoria market and signals continued economic growth and partnership for our region. We look forward to working with them to ensure the route’s success.”

    Flights and Porter Escapes vacation packages are now available for booking at www.flyporter.com and with travel agents.

    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 or follow @porterairlines on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

    About Victoria Airport Authority
    Victoria Airport Authority is a not-for-profit authority that has managed the safe and secure operations of the Victoria International Airport on behalf of the surrounding communities since April 1, 1997.

  • Porter Airlines expands presence in British Columbia with service between Victoria and Toronto Pearson

    TORONTO, June 27, 2023 /CNW/ – Porter Airlines is adding Victoria to its network, with flights between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Victoria International Airport (YYJ).

    Victoria is the second city in British Columbia that Porter serves with the new 132-seat Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. The E195-E2 has the lowest fuel consumption per seat and per trip among its class, and is the quietest single-aisle jet flying today. The two-by-two configuration means no middle seats on any Porter flight.

    Service begins on September 20, 2023, with one daily roundtrip flight. Connecting flights with Ottawa, Montreal, Halifax and St. John’s will also be available. Introductory roundtrip fares start at $476

    RouteDepartureArrival
    Toronto-Pearson (YYZ) to Victoria (YYJ)10:55 a.m.1:04 p.m.
    Victoria (YYJ) to Toronto-Pearson (YYZ)2:00 p.m.9:31 p.m.


    “Victoria is a great addition to our network and provides easy access to Vancouver Island. Travellers will appreciate Porter’s award-winning elevated economy experience, which is unmatched in the market today,” says Kevin Jackson, executive vice president and chief commercial officer, Porter Airlines. “Our emphasis is on high-quality service for every passenger – regardless of their fare class.”

    Porter’s distinct service includes complimentary beer and wine served in glassware, free premium snacks, and free, fast WiFi, with full access to web surfing or favourite streaming platforms, available to all travellers. Fresh, healthy meals, pre-mixed cocktails and additional snack options are also available on the new route.

    Sustainability is at the heart of the menu design, with a priority on reducing and eventually eliminating single-use plastics onboard, providing biodegradable cups and cutlery, and eco-friendly packaging.

    “We are truly pleased to see Porter add new Victoria-Toronto service,” said Geoff Dickson, President and CEO, Victoria Airport Authority.  “The new E195-E2 aircraft and Porter’s exceptional service offering is a welcome addition to the Victoria market. We appreciate the new service and look forward to working with them to ensure the route’s success.”

    Porter continues to expand its presence in Western Canada, now serving Vancouver, Victoria, Edmonton, Calgary and Winnipeg.

    Flights and Porter Escapes vacation packages are now available for booking at www.flyporter.com and with travel agents.

    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.

    About Victoria Airport Authority

    Victoria Airport Authority is a not-for-profit authority that has managed the safe and secure operations of the Victoria International Airport on behalf of the surrounding communities since April 1, 1997.

  • Winter 2023 heats up with release of Flair Airlines Winter Schedule

    • Winter 2023 will see an expansion in Las Vegas with the addition of service from Ottawa and Calgary
    • Existing Phoenix service will move from Phoenix-Mesa to Sky Harbor and new route from Calgary to begin in October
    • Majority of Winter 2023 capacity to be international or transborder

    EDMONTON, AB, March 7, 2023 /CNW/ – Today, Flair Airlines, Canada’s everyday low fare airline, announces the release of an exciting winter 2023 schedule. The schedule features added depth across the network to give customers more choice, particularly to sunshine, at low fares.

    Today’s announcement includes several new routes, including Toronto to Puerto Vallarta (beginning October 29, 4x weekly), Kitchener-Waterloo to Puerto Vallarta (beginning December 16, 3x weekly), Calgary to Las Vegas (beginning October 30, 7x weekly), and Calgary to Phoenix (beginning October 30, 4x weekly). Flair will also be the only carrier to serve Ottawa to Las Vegas (beginning October 13, 2x weekly).

    Existing service from Vancouver and Edmonton to Phoenix will move to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport for the season, along with the new service from Calgary to Phoenix.

    “With today’s exciting announcement, we are reaffirming our commitment to Canadians,” said Stephen Jones, President and Chief Executive Officer, Flair Airlines. “Our network offers more choice to more sun destinations than ever before. Rather than one reprieve from winter, we look forward to Canadians taking the opportunity to try all of the amazing destinations in our network.”

    “We’ve optimized our network this winter to match demand for sun. It’s clear that Canadians want more affordable options for sun, more often,” said Garth Lund, Chief Commercial Officer, Flair Airlines. “We’ve focused on adding depth to our network by increasing frequencies on popular routes. We’ll now have daily service various routes, including Vancouver to Los Angeles and Toronto to Orlando to make it easier for Canadians to plan their winter travel.”

    One-way fares at flyflair.com begin at $9 one way including taxes and fees (Thunder Bay to Toronto). Limited seats for a limited time. Flights are available for booking at flyflair.com.

    All routes, including the winter schedule, are now on sale for 20% off base fare with code: SAVE20. Sale starts on March 7 and ends on March 9, 2023, for travel from March 7, 2023, to March 14, 2024. Terms and conditions apply. Limited seats for a limited time. *

    About Flair Airlines

    Flair Airlines is Canada’s leading low-fare airline and its greenest airline, on a mission to provide affordable air travel that connects them to the people and experiences they love. With an expanding fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft, Flair is growing to serve over 35 cities across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. For more information, please visit www.flyflair.com. 

    *Use promo code: SAVE20. Limited seats for a limited time. Base fare only. Taxes and fees not included. Sale start: March 7, 2023. Sale end: March 9, 2023. Blackout dates: April 6 – April 7, 2023; April 10, 2023; May 18 – May 19, 2023; May 22 – May 23, 2023; June 30, 2023; September 1 – September 4, 2023; October 6 – October 9, 2023; November 10 – November 13, 2023; December 15, 2023 – January 7, 2024; February 15 – February 20, 2024.

    Winter 2023 Weekly Frequencies

    Transborder

    • Toronto (YYZ) – Fort Lauderdale (FLL): 14x weekly
    • Vancouver (YVR) – Los Angeles (LAX): 7x weekly
    • Toronto (YYZ) – New York (JFK): 4X weekly
    • Toronto (YYZ) – Las Vegas (LAS): 4x weekly
    • Vancouver (YVR) – San Francisco (SFO): 4x weekly
    • Ottawa (YOW) – Fort Lauderdale (FLL): 4x weekly
    • Toronto (YYZ) – Orlando (SFB): 7x weekly
    • Vancouver (YVR) – Las Vegas (LAS): 7x weekly
    • Edmonton (YEG) – Las Vegas (LAS): 4x weekly
    • Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Fort Lauderdale (FLL): 4x weekly
    • Vancouver (YVR) – Phoenix (PHX): 3x weekly
    • Calgary (YYC) – Phoenix (PHX): 4x weekly
    • Calgary (YYC) – Las Vegas (LAS): 7x weekly
    • Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Orlando (SFB): 4x weekly
    • Edmonton (YEG) – Los Angeles (LAX): 3x weekly
    • Edmonton (YEG) – Phoenix (PHX): 4x weekly
    • Ottawa (YOW) – Orlando (SFB): 4x weekly
    • Ottawa (YOW) – Las Vegas (LAS): 2x weekly

    International

    • Vancouver (YVR) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR): 9x weekly
    • Toronto (YYZ) – Cancun (CUN): 10x weekly
    • Toronto (YYZ) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR): 4x weekly
    • Edmonton (YEG) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR): 3x weekly 
    • Abbotsford (YXX) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR): 3x weekly
    • Calgary (YYC) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR): 6x weekly
    • Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Cancun (CUN) 4x weekly
    • Vancouver (YVR) – Los Cabos (SJD): 3x weekly
    • Ottawa (YOW) – Cancun (CUN): 3x weekly
    • Edmonton (YEG) – Los Cabos (SJD): 1x weekly
    • Calgary (YYC) – Los Cabos (SJD): 1x weekly
    • Abbotsford (YXX) – Los Cabos (SJD): 1x weekly
    • Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR): 3x weekly

    Domestic

    • Toronto (YYZ) – Vancouver (YVR): 15x weekly
    • Toronto (YYZ) – Calgary (YYC): 11x weekly
    • Edmonton (YEG) – Abbotsford (YXX): 14x weekly
    • Edmonton (YEG) – Vancouver (YVR): 14X weekly
    • Abbotsford (YXX) – Calgary (YYC): 14x weekly
    • Vancouver (YVR) – Calgary (YYC): 14x weekly
    • Edmonton (YEG) – Kelowna (YLW): 11x weekly
    • Winnipeg (YWG) – Toronto (YYZ): 10x weekly
    • Kelowna (YLW) – Calgary (YYC): 7x weekly
    • Kelowna (YLW) – Vancouver (YVR): 7x weekly
    • Montreal (YUL) – Vancouver (YVR): 5x weekly
    • Edmonton (YEG) – Toronto (YYZ): 7x weekly
    • Abbotsford (YXX) – Toronto (YYZ): 7x weekly
    • Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Vancouver (YVR): 4x weekly
    • Edmonton (YEG) – Winnipeg (YWG): 4x weekly
    • Winnipeg (YWG) – Calgary (YYC): 4x weekly
    • Saskatoon (YXE) – Calgary (YYC): 3x weekly
    • Vancouver (YVR) – Winnipeg (YWG): 3x weekly
    • Montreal (YUL) – Calgary (YYC): 3x weekly
    • Halifax (YHZ) – Ottawa (YOW): 4x weekly
    • Vancouver (YVR) – Saskatoon (YXE): 3x weekly
    • Saskatoon (YXE) – Toronto (YYZ): 3x weekly
    • Calgary (YYC) – Victoria (YYJ): 3x weekly
    • Edmonton (YEG) – Montreal (YUL): 4x weekly
    • Ottawa (YOW) – Vancouver (YVR): 2x weekly
    • Kitchener-Waterloo – Calgary (YYC): 3x weekly
    • Halifax (YHZ) – Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF): 2x weekly
    • Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Abbotsford (YXX): 3x weekly
    • Ottawa (YOW) – Calgary (YYC): 3x weekly
    • Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Winnipeg (YWG): 2x weekly
    • Edmonton (YEG) – Victoria (YYJ): 3x weekly

  • What Does The Future Hold For Canada’s Victoria International Airport?

    Web News • Click to view 🔗 a new window (or tab) will open to an external site reporting on Canadian aviation news

  • WestJet brings new U.S. destinations and enhanced domestic connectivity to summer schedule as airline’s new growth strategy takes flight

    CALGARY, AB, Feb. 13, 2023 /CNW/ – WestJet today unveiled 20 new routes and three new destinations to the airline’s summer schedule. Offering a comprehensive network of connectivity between Western Canada and the United States, WestJet’s summer network additions feature new non-stop service to Washington Dulles, Detroit and Minneapolis, with new routes added to Atlanta, Austin, Chicago, Nashville and Seattle. In line with the airline’s previously announced strategic direction, WestJet is also expanding domestic travel options across Canada with increased frequencies and options to travel from coast-to-coast, and everywhere in between.

    “We are thrilled to be expanding our network and giving our guests substantial opportunity to explore the U.S., and Canada from coast-to-coast this summer,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group Chief Executive Officer. “From increased domestic options to expanded regional and transborder connectivity throughout Western Canada, our summer schedule demonstrates our unwavering commitment to fulfilling the diverse needs of Canadian travellers and ensuring we are the friendly, reliable and affordable airline they love.”

    With strengthened domestic and transborder connectivity, WestJet will increase its service up to nearly 30 per cent in Calgary, 50 percent in Edmonton and 10 per cent in Vancouver when compared to 2022.

    Expanded U.S. network with more routes and increased access to Delta hubs

    This summer WestJet will introduce Minneapolis, Detroit and Washington D.C. (Dulles), to its network, in addition to investing in new routes and restoring service to an expansive list of U.S. destinations.

    Through its longstanding partnership with Delta Air Lines, guests connecting through Minneapolis and Detroit will gain access to two more of the U.S. airline’s major hubs. Building on WestJet’s current service to Delta hubs, including Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle, WestJet guests will now have access to over 150 U.S. destinations on a single purchased ticket with check-in for all flights at the first departure, baggage tagged to their final destination and lounge access for select guests. Additionally, frequent flyers of both airlines will continue to enjoy extensive reciprocal benefits any time they fly with either carrier, including earning and redeeming in their preferred program.

    Highlights of WestJet’s summer 2023 transborder and international service

    Destination Start
    Date     		Peak Season
    Frequency     		Departure
    Time    		Arrival Time
    Calgary – Austin*May 182x weekly09:4014:30
    Calgary – Chicago*May 184x weekly12:1516:40
    Calgary – Detroit1May 265x weekly12:3518:05
    Calgary – Washington D.C. (Dulles)June 23x weekly09:4516:02
    Edmonton – Minneapolis1June 25x weekly08:1511:46
    Edmonton – Seattle1May 195x weekly10:3011:30
    Vancouver – Atlanta1May 174x weekly22:2506:05
    Vancouver – NashvilleMay 192x weekly10:0016:19
    Vancouver – Orlando*May 61x weekly11:0019:52
    Winnipeg – Los Angeles3Apr 303x weekly07:0008:38
    Toronto – Bermuda3May 52x weekly07:0010:42
    *Resumption of service/ 1 Delta hub/ 3 Continuation of winter service

    Enhancing non-stop west to east connectivity

    As part of WestJet’s new strategic direction, the airline is taking strides to further provide guests with extensive opportunities to seamlessly and affordably travel across Canada. Substantially strengthening Canadian connectivity, WestJet is adding five new routes between Eastern and Western Canada, further positioning its network to support travel demands across the country.

    Destination Start
    Date     		Peak Season
    Frequency     		Departure
    Time    		Arrival Time
    Calgary – MonctonJune 143x weekly09:1516:49
    Calgary – Thunder Bay*June 293x weekly14:00/15:4518:36/20:21
    Calgary – Quebec City*May 194x weekly17:5523:55
    Edmonton – CharlottetownJune 141x weekly10:2517:58
    Edmonton – LondonMay 192x weekly10:2515:52
    Edmonton – MonctonJune 292x weekly10:2517:57
    Edmonton – Ottawa*Apr 306x weekly09:0014:43
    Edmonton – Montreal*June 302x weekly01:0007:03
    *Resumption of service

    Bringing Western Canadian communities closer through a strengthened regional network

    As Western Canada’s undisputed home-team carrier, WestJet is enhancing its aviation gateway for business and leisure travel opportunities by further strengthening regional connectivity with the resumption of non-stop flights and increased frequencies.

    Destination Start
    Date     		Peak Season
    Frequency     		Departure
    Time    		Arrival Time
    Calgary – Terrace*May 14x weekly09:40/14:1010:58/15:28
    Edmonton – Nanaimo*April 302x weekly10:3011:29
    Edmonton – Penticton*July 12x weekly11:0011:27
    Kelowna – Regina*May 212x weekly17:3020:34
    Kelowna – Saskatoon*June 22x weekly17:3520:29
    Kelowna – Winnipeg*June 23x weekly19:1523:33
    Vancouver – Regina*Jun 302x weekly20:4523:47
    Winnipeg – Victoria*April 302x weekly17:3018:28
    *Resumption of service

    Additional quotes

    “Delta is excited about WestJet’s expanded US-Canada network in summer 2023,” said Perry Cantarutti, senior vice president Alliances and International for Delta. “We already have a strong codeshare network with WestJet, and extensive reciprocal benefits for our frequent flyers. With both increased flights to Delta’s hubs in Atlanta and Seattle, as well as new WestJet flights to our hubs in Minneapolis/St. Paul and Detroit, we look forward to growing our partnership, offering new travel and connection options to more customers, and increasing competition.”

    “We’re thrilled to welcome WestJet to Minnesota and are pleased to add an important business route to Edmonton from MSP,” said Brian Ryks, CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which owns and operates MSP. “WestJet’s arrival also opens up new connections for travelers across Western Canada and the United States leveraging their codeshare with Delta Air Lines, MSP’s largest carrier.”

    “We are pleased to have WestJet begin operations at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. With the addition of WestJet, our customers will be able to fly directly from Detroit to Calgary for the first time since 2005. We’re hoping this route will also give our Canadian neighbors one more reason to visit our great region, “said Chad Newton, Wayne County Airport Authority CEO.

    “Dulles International Airport welcomes WestJet to the Washington, D.C., region with this first-ever service to Calgary,” said Chryssa Westerlund, Airports Authority executive vice president and chief revenue officer. “Calgary will become the 60th international destination from Washington Dulles, and WestJet will be our 40th air carrier. We are thrilled to welcome WestJet to Dulles and to provide customers this new link between Western Canada and Washington.”

    About WestJet

    In 26 years of serving Canadians, WestJet has cut airfares in half and increased the flying population in Canada to more than 50 per cent. WestJet launched in 1996 with three aircraft, 250 employees and five destinations, growing over the years to more than 180 aircraft, 14,000 employees and more than 110 destinations in 24 countries. 

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

    Recent recognition includes: 
    2020/2019 Number-One Ranked Canadian Airline Loyalty Program in Member Engagement (Bond Brand Loyalty)
    2019/2018/2017 Best Airline in Canada (TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards for Airlines) 
    2019 Winner Among Mid-Sized Airlines in North America (TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards for Airlines) 
    2019/2018 Number-One-Ranked Airline Credit Card in Canada (Rewards Canada)

  • New air traffic control tower planned for Victoria, B.C.

    OTTAWA, ON, Nov. 9, 2022 /CNW/ – Today NAV CANADA announced its plans to construct a new air traffic control tower at the Victoria International Airport (YYJ).

    Construction of the new tower will begin in the spring of 2023 and is expected to be completed by 2026, replacing the existing tower at the Victoria airport.

    The new energy efficient LEED certified tower will include a control cab with a 360-degree view of the airport and have the most modern air traffic management, communications, and aviation surveillance systems to ensure safety of operations.

    With a height of six stories and a total floor space of approximately 969m2, the new structure will stand several metres taller than the current tower, providing air traffic controllers with improved sight lines over the airfield.

    “While the new tower will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology to safely and efficiently manage growing air traffic demand, it will also be LEED certified, which is an investment in energy efficiency and sustainability and demonstrates NAV CANADA’s commitment to its net-zero goal by 2050,” said Raymond G. Bohn, President and CEO, NAV CANADA.

    “We congratulate NAV CANADA, and we are pleased to see this new state of the art control tower being constructed at Victoria International Airport. Aviation is a critical industry for economic prosperity and this project will help facilitate continued growth in the region,” said Geoff Dickson, President and CEO, Victoria International Airport.

    NAV CANADA’s decision to replace the existing tower, built in 1958, was based on the need for an upgraded facility to better support airport and aircraft operations and future years of continued uninterrupted service in the area.

    Employees of NAV CANADA will continue to work at the existing facility until construction is finalized, at which point air traffic control operations will transition to the new tower. 

    About LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)

    LEED certified buildings are proven to save money, improve efficiency, lower carbon emissions, and create healthier spaces for people. They are a critical part of addressing the climate crisis, meeting Environmental Social Governance goals, enhancing resilience, and supporting more equitable communities.

    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. Air traffic management systems developed by NAV CANADA are used by air navigation service providers in countries worldwide.

  • Pacific Coastal Winter Holiday Schedule is Now Available

    14 October 2022

    More flight options & flexibility to help plan your holiday season. 

    Additional flights are available to destinations like Powell River, Trail, Williams Lake, Cranbrook, Victoria, Kelowna and Prince George.  Learn more about the holiday schedule flight options at https://flights.pacificcoastal.com/en/winter-holiday-schedule

    From December 16, 2022 to January 03, 2023

    • Up to four daily flights between Kelowna and Victoria
    • Daily flights between Prince George and Victoria
    • Additional daily flight between Cranbrook and Vancouver
    • Up to four daily flights between Powell River and Vancouver
    • Additional second flight on Saturdays between Trail and Vancouver
    • New flight between Cranbrook and Kelowna (starts 14 Nov 2022)

  • Court date for man who brought bags with inert explosives to Victoria airport: RCMP

    Web News • 25 May 2022

    Click to View 🔗 a new window (or tab) will open to an external site reporting aviation news in Canada.