Air Canada’s Best and Complete Content Now Available Through Sabre NDC

Sabre Corporation, a leading software and technology provider that powers the global travel industry, and Air Canada, Canada's largest airline, today announced the launch of Air Canada's full content via NDC in Sabre's travel marketplace. This launch empowers travel agencies to consume Air Canada's expanded NDC offers and services, enabling them to provide a more personalized travel experience to the customers they serve.  

As of July 17, 2024, travel agents and other travel sellers can shop, book, and service Air Canada NDC offers alongside traditional EDIFACT content and low-cost and ancillary XML options. NDC is now available in the following markets: Canada, Australia, Brazil, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India[1], Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom and the United States. Following the launch in these countries, focus will turn to activating new markets based on demand.

"This partnership with Sabre marks a significant step forward in Air Canada’s NDC program," said Mark Nasr, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Digital, Air Canada. "From local independent agencies to large corporate travel management companies, our travel trade partners were, are, and will always be crucial to Air Canada’s commercial success. That’s why we’re committed to working collaboratively on a smooth transition, enabling the trade to connect with Air Canada using their preferred and familiar methods. Sabre's marketplace plays a vital role in the travel ecosystem, making NDC content readily available to travel agents and buyers across the world, providing a consistent and efficient booking experience across all channels.”

New Air Canada Paris 2024 Spot Celebrates How One Canadian Dream Can Inspire Another

New Air Canada Paris 2024 Spot Celebrates How One Canadian Dream Can Inspire Another Brand spot from Official Airline of Team Canada tells moving story connecting the journeys of New Canadians and Olympic and Paralympic Athletes

 

Air Canada has launched Ticket to Dream, a powerful new brand spot celebrating Team Canada's heroic journey to the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The spot will be released on Air Canada’s social platforms on July 17 and premiere on TV, cinema and online on July 26, helping stoke excitement among Team Canada and its devoted fans during the official opening ceremony for the Games.  

Ticket to Dream stands as the centrepiece of Air Canada’s wider Olympic and Paralympic campaign, which will champion Team Canada's pursuit of glory this summer and unite Canadian fans in Paris and at home, through exciting activations that proudly share the best of Canada with the world.

"We're immensely proud to honour Team Canada's athletes, whose relentless spirit and drive in pursuing their dreams is truly inspirational," says Andy Shibata, Vice President, Brand at Air Canada. "Our Ticket to Dream spot brings together the drama and emotion of that journey while paying homage to the resilience of both our athletes and many Canadians inspiring all of us ahead of the world’s most prestigious sporting event.”

Air Canada proudly sponsors The Ninety-Nines International Conference and Career Expo 2024 in Vancouver

Last week, Air Canada proudly sponsored The Ninety-Nines International Conference and Career Expo that took place in Vancouver, BC. The organization, founded in 1929 and whose first president was Amelia Earhart and currently counts close to 8,000 female pilots and student pilots, offers mentorship as well as scholarships to its members.  

“We welcome women from all over the world, whether you are a certified or licensed pilot or student pilot even. We have members from New Zealand, India, and obviously Canada and the United States. We offer mentorship and scholarships to our members,” said Captain Janet Patton, International Director of The Ninety-Nines. “We have commercial pilots, helicopter pilots, all sorts! What we all have in common is our passion for aviation and so meetings like these are a good opportunity to get together and share our experiences, challenges and passion,” continued Captain Patton, who is also a licensed hot air balloon commercial pilot.  

“Thanks to our Air Canada sponsorship, we are able to hold this event in beautiful Vancouver and gain visibility to our organization,” said Cindy Pang, Governor of the West Canada section of The Ninety-Nines, licensed pilot and Air Canada concierge at Vancouver International Airport. “We count many Air Canada pilots and employees in our group, therefore having the company’s support means a lot to us.”  

Air Canada to lease more Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets

The Canadian airline Air Canada has completed a lease deal with BOC Aviation Limited for eight Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

The airline is deliberately dropping the MAX from its publicity to obfuscate details from the flying public as to the model of aircraft they are passengers on. The eight aircraft are scheduled for delivery in 2024 and will undergo special safety-required modifications before entering service in 2025. The aircraft will initially operate with a single Economy class layout until they are reconfigured to fully match the onboard experience our customers enjoy in Air Canada's narrow-body, two-cabin standard at a later date. All eight aircraft will be powered by CFM LEAP-1B engines.

"We look forward to these aircraft entering into service next year, upon the completion of some required modifications," said Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada.   

"We are pleased that Canada's flag carrier, Air Canada, is working with us once again as it strengthens its network," said Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of BOC Aviation. 

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The Boeing 737 MAX 8 type has experienced a very troubled history, it is an aircraft that has been beset by significant flaws that led to two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019, resulting in a total of 346 fatalities. 

Air Canada to start Québec to Tulum, Mexico route

Air Canada will launch new weekly flights from Québec City to Tulum, Mexico's newest airport in the Yucatan peninsula from 13 December this year the airline advised.

The airline will also resume non-stop services from Québec City to popular sun destinations Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Punta Cana and Cancun this winter. 

"We are excited to launch new non-stop flights from Québec City to Tulum, offering convenient access to Mexico's Mayan Riviera, as well as resuming non-stop service from Québec City to popular sun destinations. Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations provide a wide range of travel choices for Québec residents, with easy and convenient flights to their favourite vacation destinations in Florida, Mexico and more. Customers can make their sun holiday travel plans now. We look forward to welcoming you onboard this winter," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President, Revenue and Network Planning.

"We are delighted with the addition of Tulum to the range of vacation destinations offered to travellers from the greater Québec City region and the return of Air Canada international flights from Québec City to destinations as popular as Cancun, Punta Cana, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale. Not only has Air Canada made the decision to quickly restore its international air service from Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB), but the carrier has also chosen to invest in our market by adding a new destination to the schedule for winter 2024-2025," said Stéphane Poirier, President and CEO of YQB. "This announcement is the result of a fruitful and beneficial collaboration between Air Canada and YQB."

Winter flying from Québec City

Quebec	Peak winter 2024 service improvements and seasonal resumptions
Québec (YQB) – Tulum (TQO)	New route, 1 weekly flight
Québec (YQB) – Orlando (MCO)	Resumed October 30, with 2 weekly flights
Québec (YQB) – Fort Lauderdale (FLL)	Resumed October 31, with 2 weekly flights
Québec (YQB) – Punta Cana (PUJ)	Resumed October 30, with 2 weekly flights
Québec (YQB) – Cancún (CUN)	Resumed October 31, with 1 weekly flights

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Air Canada updates winter schedule to offer 55 Caribbean and US Destinations.......

New Montreal-Saint Maarten*, Ottawa-Tulum*, Quebec City-Tulum* routes

Non-stop flights from Quebec City to Florida, Mexico, Caribbean

More flights from Halifax, Ottawa, Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver to popular vacation destinations

Air Canada has updated its 2024-25 winter sun network, with increased frequencies and featuring new routes from Ottawa and Quebec City to Tulum and from Montreal to Saint Maarten. In addition, more flights are scheduled from Halifax, Ottawa, Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver to popular vacation destinations in Florida and the Caribbean. This winter, Air Canada plans to operate up to 50 flights departing Canada every day, serving a total of 55 Caribbean and US Sun vacation destinations.

"Air Canada continues to expand the breadth of its winter leisure network by adding new routes to in-demand leisure destinations, including Saint Maarten and Tulum. Air Canada was the first Canadian carrier to launch service to Tulum, the newest airport in Mexico's Yucatan peninsula, and we are thrilled to expand our services to offer non-stop flights from both Ottawa and Quebec City to this exciting destination. With the addition of new services to SaintMaarten from Montreal complementing our services from Toronto, Air Canada offers the most weekly frequencies from Canada to this binational, multicultural Caribbean island," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President, Revenue and Network Planning, at Air Canada.

"Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations will offer a multitude of travel options and increased frequencies from airports across Canada so customers can conveniently reach popular winter sun destinations. These flights are already available for sale and customers can make their winter travel plans now. We look forward to welcoming you onboard."

Air Canada takes 5 categories at the 2024 Skytrax World Airline Awards

Air Canada has been recognized with five awards at the 2024 Skytrax World Airline Awards, including for having the world's Best Business Class Airline Lounge Catering and also the Best Cabin Crew in Canada. The carrier was also named the Most Family Friendly Airline in North America, Best Premium Economy Class Onboard Catering in North America, and Cleanest Airline in North America.

"We are very pleased with the results of this year's Skytrax World Airline Awards due to the number of awards we won and also because they recognize Air Canada's industry leadership in delivering superior products and service across our diverse customer base. This includes our premium customers, to whom we offer the world's Best Business Class Airline Lounge Catering at our Toronto Air Canada Signature Suite and the Best Premium Economy Class catering in North America; families travelling together, who can enjoy the Most Family Friendly Airline in North America; and all customers who are served by the Best Cabin Crew in Canada while flying on the Cleanest Airline in North America," said Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive of Air Canada.

"These awards also recognize the dedication, professionalism and hard work of our 40,000 employees worldwide who safely transport our customers to their destinations, and for truly representing what is the best of Canada. I am particularly pleased to see the work of our flight attendants and our cabin services operations teams being recognized. And to our customers, I thank them for their loyalty to Air Canada and for expressing their support by taking part in the 2024 Skytrax awards survey, which had more than 20 million submissions globally."

• World's Best Business Class Airline Lounge Catering for the Toronto Air Canada Signature Suite
• Best Cabin Crew in Canada
• Most Family Friendly Airline in North America
• Best Premium Economy Class Onboard Catering in North America
• Cleanest Airline in North America

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The World Airline Awards are wholly independent and impartial, introduced in 1999 to provide a customer satisfaction study that is truly global. Travellers across the world vote in the largest airline passenger satisfaction survey to determine the award winners. The awards are referred to by media around the world as "the Oscars of the aviation industry". All costs of the Survey and Awards event are paid by Skytrax, and airlines do not pay any entry or registration fee. There are no charges for use of the Award logos and results. The online customer survey operated from September 2023 to May 2024, together with invitations sent to previous year respondents in the survey database. Over 100 customer nationalities participated in the 2023/2024 survey with 21.42 million eligible entries counted in the results.

Children living with autism learn to fly on Autism Aviation Days

Over the last two months, employees at Air Canada and our partner, Jazz Aviation LP, the Air Canada Foundation and the Canucks Autism Network organized Autism Aviation Days in BC to introduce kids on the autism spectrum and their families to elements of air travel by learning and practicing airport processes. Following the two first events held at Victoria International Airport at the end of April, three single-day events took place on May 4, 25 and 26 at Vancouver International Airport, where 180 children experienced the security process, boarding an Air Canada Express CRJ-900 aircraft, taxiing around the tarmac and de-planing.  

 

“Helping children spread their wings is what we do at the Air Canada Foundation”, said Rebecca Smillie Nedelec, Director, Community Engagement at Air Canada. “By partnering with organizations like the Canucks Autism Network, we can provide these unique experiences that help reduce barriers and improve accessibility to air travel for children of all backgrounds.”  

 

Families with children on the spectrum of autism can face different challenges and barriers, especially when it comes to air travel. These events allowed children to rehearse the entire pre-flight process in a safe and supported environment. Autism Aviation Days aim to decrease anxiety associated with air travel and build confidence for future journeys not only for the children but also the parents.  

 

 

Children living with autism learn to fly on Autism Aviation Days from Air Canada on Vimeo.

All Air Canada customers on all flights can now enjoy a delicious free snack, featuring Canadian favourites

Starting today, Air Canada has introduced premium complimentary snacks, featuring homegrown Canadian favourites, to all customers on all flights. The airline is also expanding its complimentary beer and wine offering to customers on flights within Canada and the U.S., alongside a selection of $5 spirits, through the end of this year.

"We're thrilled to continue elevating the Economy travel experience in North America, and we're proud to spotlight Canadian brands with this thoughtfully curated lineup of complimentary snacks and beverages, in time for your summer travels," said Scott O'Leary, Vice President, Loyalty & Product at Air Canada. "This builds on our recent industry-leading food and beverage upgrade to make travel better for all customers, including 100+ new rotating seasonal recipes."

Take Snacking to Cloud Nine 

Complimentary premium snacks are now offered to Economy customers on all Air Canada flights. Whether travelling in Canada or across the globe, all customers on all flights can enjoy free sweet or savoury bites, including two Canadian favourites: buttery herb and garlic pretzels from Alberta's family-owned and female-led TWIGZ, and Quebec-based Leclerc's Célébration Cookie, a crafted sweet treat made with real milk chocolate and butter.

Raise a Glass to Summer

Air Canada is proud to extend its complimentary beer and wine offering to Economy customers flying within Canada and the U.S. just in time for summer, and through to the end of this year. This adds to the existing complimentary offering in all International Economy and Premium cabins. Beer, wine and spirits remain available for purchase from the Air Canada Bistro menu on Economy flights to and from the Caribbean and Mexico.

Customers will enjoy a curated selection of exceptional beers, French wines, and customer favourite spirits. Featured flavour-forward craft beers include Hop Valley and Creemore Springs Premium Lager, as well as crisp and refreshing Molson Canadian and Coors Light. Two French wines from Paul Mas include a robust red or a fresh, dry white.

For cocktail aficionados, $5 spirits on offer include Baileys Original Irish Cream, Canadian Club rye, Bacardi Superior rum, Bombay Sapphire gin, Smirnoff vodka, Tromba Tequila Blanco, or Campari. There's something everyone can cheers to with the largest bar offering of any airline in North America.

Alcohol will not be served to persons under the age of majority or for any safety reasons.

Continued Culinary Elevation

Customers travelling on Air Canada this summer will also enjoy its recent industry-leading food and beverage upgrade to make travel better, which includes 100+ new rotating seasonal recipes alongside craveable new snacks and beverages. Air Canada's refreshed Bistro menu also boasts the most extensive selection of fresh buy-on-board options from any North American airline, and Air Canada also remains the only North American airline to offer hot, fresh kids' meals to purchase through its North American Bistro program. With options that cater to the diverse dietary needs of customers, the airline will continue to invest in even more comfort and convenience throughout 2024.

Additional information on Air Canada's new drinks and premium snacks, and more, is available at: aircanada.com/bonappetit

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Air Canada expands service to India for Winter 2024-25

 

                                  Air Canada today announced the strategic expansion of its international network to India, adding 40 per cent more seat capacity beginning late October for the Winter 2024-25 season. Highlights of the carrier's new services include the only non-stop flights from Canada to India's financial capital, Mumbai, improved service from Western Canada to Delhi with the introduction of new seasonal daily flights over London Heathrow and daily flights from Montreal to Delhi. In total, Air Canada will operate 25 weekly flights to India, the most comprehensive offering of any carrier between Canada and India. Seats on all flights are available for purchase now at aircanada.com, via the Air Canada App and through travel agents.

Only non-stop Canada-Mumbai route launches Oct. 27, operating four-times weekly from Toronto

Increased Air Canada connectivity from Western Canada to India with new daily seasonal Calgary-Delhi flights via London Heathrow beginning Oct. 27

Vancouver-London flights connect conveniently to Delhi this winter via London Heathrow

Montreal-Delhi flights boosted to daily; route capacity increases 44 per cent

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"India is an important market for Air Canada, reflecting longstanding and growing family and trade ties between our two countries. We are thrilled to expand our network to Mumbai and Delhi by building additional scale at our hubs in time for Diwali festivities this fall. With new non-stop flights from Toronto to Mumbai, the addition of new flights to Delhi from Western Canada via London Heathrow, together with the unparalleled connectivity from our robust North American network, we are solidifying Air Canada as the leading airline offering the most travel options between Canada and India. We look forward to welcoming our customers onboard," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President – Revenue and Network Planning at Air Canada.

Air Canada will operate 25 weekly flights representing 7,400 seats each week this winter from Canada to India, comprising up to 11 weekly flights from Toronto to Delhi and Mumbai, daily flights from Montreal to Delhi and daily flights to Delhi from Western Canada via London Heathrow.

Toronto-Mumbai* schedule:

The only non-stop flight from Canada to Mumbai, linking two of the largest cities in both countries

Flights will be operated with Boeing 777-200LR aircraft featuring a choice of Air Canada Signature Class, Premium Economy and Economy class service

Schedule facilitates convenient connections from across North America to/from Air Canada's primary global hub

Air Canada to install its Astrova in-flight entertainment (IFE) solution on 80+ aircraft starting in 2025.

         Aircraft Interiors Expo - Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic Avionics), a world-leading provider of in-flight engagement and connectivity (IFEC) solutions, has signed an agreement with Air Canada to install its Astrova in-flight entertainment (IFE) solution on 80+ aircraft starting in 2025.

Per terms of the agreement, the flag carrier of Canada will see Astrova line fit on Air Canada Boeing 787-10, Airbus A220-300 and A321XLR aircraft. Additionally, it will be retrofitted on A321s.

This wide-ranging and diverse fleet commitment from Air Canada marks the first time Astrova will be installed on the Airbus A220.

Upon delivery, Astrova will create an immersive experience through industry-leading 4K OLED HDR10+ screens. Passengers can also experience high-fidelity audio on their own wireless headphones using Panasonic Avionics' Bluetooth® technology*.

For passengers that want to multitask or work on their flights, up to 100 W of DC power via USB-C will be available in all phases of flight to fast charge mobile phones, tablets, compatible laptops, and other personal electronic devices.

Astrova also features a modular design that delivers the scalability, and flexibility needed to keep pace with consumer trends in today's fast-changing market. For example, Astrova's patented removable peripheral bar can be quickly hot swapped to unlock new upgrades and features to services like USB power, Bluetooth® technology, and other standards that may change or evolve over time.

Air Canada Proudly Renews its Partnership with the Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee Until 2030

Air Canada is proud to #FlytheFlag as Team Canada's Official Airline for the next four Olympic and Paralympic Games, including Paris 2024

Airline kicks off a series of Olympic and Paralympic-themed activations with the unveiling of a special Boeing 777 livery

Air Canada has also unveiled 10 Team Air Canada athlete ambassadors representing the best of Canadian values and sporting excellence

Air Canada has renewed its partnership as the Official Airline of Team Canada. The new agreement, showcasing the airline's deep passion for sport and commitment to sharing the best of Canada with the world, extends through the 2030 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and includes Paris 2024.

Adding to the excitement, Air Canada also unveiled at an event in Toronto a Boeing 777 with a special livery to transport Team Canada Olympians and Paralympians, coaches and support staff to and from the Games.

"We're honoured to extend our partnership with the Canadian Olympic and Paralympic Committees as Team Canada's Official Airline through 2030, including for Paris 2024," said Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada. "We're looking forward to proudly sharing the very best of Canada with the world as we cheer the nation's top athletes on to Olympic and Paralympic success."

Air Canada will #FlyTheFlag as the Official Airline of Team Canada for the next four Olympic and Paralympic Games. This includes the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, to which the airline will transport more than 1,000 Team Canada athletes and delegation members, supported by its Going for Gold employee program, ensuring a seamless and easy travel experience to and from the Games.

"We are delighted to extend our long-standing relationship with Air Canada," said David Shoemaker, Chief Executive Officer and Secretary General of the Canadian Olympic Committee. "For more than 30 years, Air Canada's passion for Team Canada has been remarkable. We're grateful for the exceptional travel experience they consistently offer our athletes, helping them compete at their best on the world's biggest stage."

"Air Canada continues to be a world-class partner, committed to working collaboratively with the Paralympic community to provide the best possible services for Paralympic athletes to travel to the Games," said Karen O'Neill, Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Paralympic Committee. "We look forward to a comfortable, safe, and efficient journey to Paris with Air Canada this summer, and to strengthening our relationship even further over the next six years in support of helping athletes to reach their Paralympic goals."

Air Canada increases service to Ottawa

Air Canada is boosting its schedule serving Canada's capital, Ottawa, by almost 60 per cent with flights to Calgary and Winnipeg now operating year-round, increased flights providing additional capacity to Halifax and Quebec City, and the addition of widebody service to Vancouver. Additional schedule improvements include more flights to popular leisure destinations Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Orlando, Cancun and Punta Cana this winter.

Up to 30 additional weekly flights for winter season compared to last year

Non-stop flights to Calgary and Winnipeg extended to year-round

Additional capacity added to Quebec, Halifax and Vancouver

More flights to Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Orlando, Cancun and Punta Cana for winter 2024

"Ottawa is an important part of Air Canada's network and in response to demand, we are growing our capacity to our nation's capital city by almost 60 per cent compared to 2023. We are very excited to add more flights to the rest of the country with the extension of key non-stop routes to year-round and additional capacity to other cities. We are also adding capacity to popular sun destinations and in conjunction with our joint venture partner United Airlines, increasing options for travel to and from the U.S.," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President, Revenue and Network Planning, at Air Canada.

"I'm delighted to see Air Canada significantly increase air service in and out of Ottawa. This is great news for Ottawa's economy and recognizes the importance and vibrancy of the Ottawa market on the world stage. It's particularly welcome news for the tourism industry, for business owners, and for Ottawa residents travelling to destinations throughout North America," said Mark Sutcliffe, Mayor of Ottawa.

"Air Canada, a long-standing provider of frequent and reliable service to YOW, reinforces its presence with this notable capacity increase for the winter season. Timely and strategic, these flights cater to the needs of Ottawa-Gatineau residents as they jet off to their favourite destinations or welcome visitors from afar," said Joel Tkach, Vice President of business Development & Marketing, Ottawa International Airport Authority.

Air Canada starts motorcoach service connecting Hamilton and region of Waterloo airport with Toronto Pearson

Air Canada has begun offering residents of the Hamilton-Wentworth and Waterloo Region more convenient, one-stop access to the airline's global network and a world of travel possibilities.

With the launch of its new motorcoach service in collaboration with The Landline Company, Air Canada is connecting the Hamilton and the Region of Waterloo airports to Toronto Pearson. Customers can now create a single itinerary when booking travel with Air Canada from Waterloo Region or Hamilton through Toronto to any destination. The service includes a high-end motorcoach service connecting with Air Canada flights, offering a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. This integrated service is a trial initiative from John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport and the Region of Waterloo International Airport, with the potential to make it available elsewhere in Canada in the future.

"We are excited to launch this new service in collaboration with The Landline Company, offering our customers a convenient, stress-free multimodal option that will make connections easy and travel more seamless. We are committed to improving regional services and this innovative partnership is a testament to that," said Ranbir Singh, Director Regional Airlines and Markets at Air Canada. "Passengers who choose to travel between airports using Landline's top-tier motorcoaches will enjoy similar benefits as those who opt for air-only connections: a convenient single itinerary when departing Hamilton or the Region of Waterloo, disruption protection and Aeroplan earning opportunities."

"We are thrilled to launch our premium connecting service from Hamilton and the Region of Waterloo in partnership with Air Canada," said Nick Johnson, Vice President, Commercial for Landline. "In addition to premium onboard amenities, and a protected flight connection on every trip, passengers can now book and ride our luxury motorcoach for no additional cost when paired with their Air Canada flight."

"Today marks an exciting development for the future of air travel in southern Ontario as Air Canada's luxury motorcoaches, operated in partnership with The Landline Company, officially take to the road from Hamilton International," said Cole Horncastle, Executive Managing Director of John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport. "This innovative new service aligns with Hamilton International's commitment to provide a comfortable, convenient travel experience for passengers and expands access between our region and Air Canada's global network."

"At YKF we are investing and expanding in so many ways. We are thrilled to welcome Air Canada's motorcoach service, further connecting Waterloo Region to a network of 140-plus destinations," said Karen Redman, Chair of the Region of Waterloo. "We look forward to continuing to work together to build on an airport that offers options for every traveller."

How it works

Landline will operate six, non-stop round trips daily to Toronto Pearson from each of the Hamilton and Region of Waterloo airports in southern Ontario. Air Canada customers beginning their journey at Hamilton or Region of Waterloo airports will check in as normal for their flight and obtain boarding passes for all segments of their trip. At a designated departure point at the local airport, they will board a luxury, Air Canada-branded motorcoach and their checked baggage will be loaded. Upon arrival at Toronto Pearson, customers will proceed directly with their bags to the departure level.

In the event of coach or flight delays, customers travelling on Landline will be automatically rebooked like customers travelling on air-only itineraries.  Members of Air Canada's Aeroplan program will earn points for both ground and air segments, as on any normal connecting flight itinerary. For more information see www.aircanada.com/landline 

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From	To	Day of Week	Departure Time	Arrival Time
Hamilton (YHM)	Toronto (YYZ)	Daily	5:00am 6:00am 10:45am 1:40pm 3:45pm 5:40pm	06:00am 06:55am 11:50am 2:45pm 5:00pm 6:50pm
Toronto (YYZ)	Hamilton (YHM)	Daily	8:05am 9:50am 1:00pm 3:05pm 6:00pm 9:40pm	9:10am 10:55am 2:05pm 4:20pm 7:20pm 10:40pm

 

From	To	Day of Week	Departure Time	Arrival Time
Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF)	Toronto (YYZ)	Daily	5:00am 6:05am 10:55am 1:40pm 3:50pm 5:45pm	6:05am 7:15am 12:05pm 2:55pm 5:15pm 7:00pm
Toronto (YYZ)	Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF)	Daily	8:15am 9:40am 1:15pm 3:15pm 6:15pm 9:35pm	9:30am 10:50am 2:25pm 4:40pm 7:35pm 10:40pm

Premium motorcoaches

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

Air Canada Regional Services 

Air Canada operates to 40 communities across Canada, including in partnership with regional carriers Jazz Aviation LP and PAL Airlines. Through its innovative new partnership with Landline, Air Canada is extending its regional network to conveniently connect local airports directly to its global network. There is potential to further expand the partnership with Landline to connect with other regional airports in Canada at a future date.

Air Canada Reports First Quarter 2024 Financial Results

Air Canada reports its first quarter 2024 financial results this week, demonstrating operating revenues of more than $5 billion. 

"Air Canada's solid first quarter results position our airline for a strong performance in 2024. We had operating revenues of $5.2 billion in the quarter, up $339 million from last year. Adjusted EBITDA grew by $42 million year over year to $453 million. I thank our employees for their hard work taking care of our 11 million customers and transporting them safely throughout the quarter. I also commend them for improving our operations, notably a 13 percentage-point increase in system-wide, on-time arrivals, preparing us for an anticipated busy summer period," said Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada. 

"We are confident in our ability to deliver on our full year 2024 guidance. As we look toward the summer, we see a continued healthy demand environment, and our customers will have a wide range of exciting travel options across Europe, Asia, and North America, for their summer holiday planning.  

"In the quarter, we generated over $1 billion of free cash flow, mainly resulting from cash generated from operating activities. Our net debt-to-adjusted EBITDA ratio fell to 0.9 at the quarter's end. We also made further progress in our strategy to deleverage the balance sheet by reducing gross debt. Our accomplishments in this regard have been recognized by the credit rating agency community, more recently with S&P Global Ratings' latest upgrade to 'BB' from 'BB-' at the end of April. For the full year 2024, we remain certain of our ability to generate significant free cash flow. Our strong balance sheet will serve as the foundation on which we will grow our airline through investments in our world-class global network and the deployment of capital allocation strategies that will create sustainable, long-term value, for all of Air Canada and its shareholders," said Mr. Rousseau.

First Quarter 2024 Financial Results

• Operating revenues of $5.226 billion increased $339 million or 7% on an operated capacity growth of 11% year over year.
• Operating expenses of $5.215 billion increased $311 million or 6%. The increase was due to higher costs in nearly all line items reflecting higher operated capacity and traffic year over year, in addition to higher labour, maintenance and information technology expense. Lower fuel expense partially offset the increase.
• Operating income of $11 million, with an operating margin of 0.2%, improved $28 million.

Air Canada Introduces New Sports Channels to Live TV Service Just in Time for the Stanley Cup Playoffs

 Air Canada announced the addition of three new Live TV sports channels to its award-winning in-flight entertainment (IFE) system. Just in time for the start of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Sportsnet ONE and Sportsnet East are available today, while TVA Sports will be available in May, so Air Canada customers can cheer their favourite hockey team onboard select flights.

"We are extremely excited, as the only Canadian airline with Live TV, to show the Stanley Cup Playoffs onboard. Hockey is an integral part of the Canadian identity, so it only makes sense that we offer it in French and English to our customers as part of our extensive in-flight entertainment. These new channels further cement our dedication to Canada's game. Our commitment to hockey includes flying all seven Canadian teams, being a jersey sponsor of the Montreal Canadiens, and as official airline of the PWHL," said John Moody, Managing Director, Onboard Product at Air Canada.

Air Canada's Live TV experience is delivered through a satellite-connected solution, directly to the seat-back screen. Live TV programming on Air Canada flights is comprised of:

• Sportsnet ONE and Sportsnet East offer extensive coverage of the NHL and Stanley Cup Playoffs, Toronto Blue Jays and Toronto Raptors, as well as NBA, MLB, Grand Slam of Curling, and more (available only on domestic flights)
• TVA Sports offers extensive French-language coverage of the NHL and Stanley Cup Playoffs, WTA, Blue Jays and MLB games, UFC, EURO 2024 and more (available on domestic and transborder flights)
• TSN and RDS, delivering comprehensive live sports coverage of marquee sports events including this summer's UEFA EURO 2024 and CONMEBOL Copa América 2024™, as well as additional sports including hockey, basketball, football, baseball, golf and tennis majors, auto racing, and more

Air Canada to offer more flights to more destinations....

Air Canada is introducing more flights to more destinations across Europe and Asia this summer, along with a choice of 120 destinations in North America, to fulfil their summer travel plans. Alongside new and enhanced international routes to Singapore, Madrid, Stockholm, Osaka and Seoul, the carrier's Summer 2024 international capacity is growing by 30 per cent into Asia-Pacific and 25 per cent to key leisure destinations in Southern Europe compared to last Summer.

New international services to Singapore, Madrid, Stockholm, Osaka and Seoul

Over 30% additional capacity into Asia-Pacific with up to 87 weekly flights

25% increase to key leisure destinations in Southern Europe

120 destinations across North America, including new services to Charleston, South Carolina and Tulum, Mexico

Air Canada customers have a wide range of exciting options across Europe and Asia this summer, along with a choice of 120 destinations in North America. (CNW Group/Air Canada)

"We continue to see strong demand for southern European destinations, and have increased capacity to countries such as Italy, Greece and especially Spain for this summer. Air Canada is also focused on strategically expanding its Pacific hub in Vancouver and we are thrilled to have launched service to Singapore earlier this month, as well as increasing service to Hong Kong and Japan. With continued high demand for visiting friends, relatives and leisure travel, our increased services to key destinations give customers more options than ever before," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President, Revenue and Network Planning, at Air Canada.

"Within North America, Air Canada's domestic and trans-border network will grow to 120 destinations this summer, with the addition of Tulum, Mexico and Charleston, South Carolina, and be further strengthened by our joint business agreement with United Airlines. Taken together, our domestic, trans-border and international schedules, alongside our airline and intermodal partnerships, create a global network unrivalled among Canadian carriers. We have continued to build scale at our Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver hubs, each offering convenient and easy connections and such amenities as our Maple Leaf Lounges and Signature Suites in Toronto and Vancouver for our premium customers."

Air Canada and Jane Goodall Institute of Canada Spotlight Illegal Wildlife Trade and Biodiversity Challenges

Building on its partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada (JGIC), Air Canada is launching a new initiative to spotlight illegal wildlife trade (IWT) and its impact on global biodiversity. In collaboration with JGIC and involvement from Dr Jane Goodall herself, the awareness campaign will showcase animals endangered from IWT on the airline's in-flight entertainment welcome screens, social media and more during Earth Month, along with a special message from Dr Jane Goodall.

"Air Canada plays an important role in protecting biodiversity around the world and I've been proud to see Air Canada team up with The Jane Goodall Institute of Canada to bring more awareness to this issue. Their significant commitment to not only fighting the illegal wildlife trade through their policies and procedures, but using their platform to educate on this very important issue is commendable," said Bella Lam, Chief Executive Officer at the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada.

Air Canada launches new awareness campaign across its in-flight entertainment, social media and more to raise awareness of illegal wildlife trade

Preserving wildlife has been a component of Air Canada's environmental and sustainability efforts to "Do More"

Aeroplan to launch a points match week in support of the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada from April 22-28

Air Canada is first airline globally to showcase conservation documentaries onboard from Age of Union

"At Air Canada, our belief is while much of what we do to reduce our environmental footprint is about leaving less, we also need to do more to improve our planet's fragile ecosystems. As a global airline, we can use our platform to bring more awareness to the illegal wildlife trade and how that affects overall biodiversity. To further support this important work, all Aeroplan points donated to The Jane Goodall Institute of Canada for one week following Earth Day will be matched by Aeroplan. We are also honoured to celebrate Dr Goodall's 90th year by supporting her birthday tour across Canada to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards," said Valerie Durand, Head of Investor Relations and Corporate Sustainability at Air Canada.

Air Canada Wins 2024 APEX Best in Entertainment Award in North America

Unparalleled offering includes Live TV, Apple TV+, Audible, Disney+ and Hayu among thousands of hours of content.

Air Canada is honoured to have earned the 2024 APEX Best in Entertainment Award in North America for its in-flight entertainment (IFE) offering, presented last night at the APEX Awards in Lisbon. This is the first time the airline has won this APEX award, which is based on ratings the organization received from thousands of passengers who flew with Air Canada.

Air Canada’s complimentary and extensive in-flight entertainment programming features more than 1,400 hours of movies, 1,900 hours of television shows and more than 600 hours of music and podcasts, and a selection of live tv stations. (CNW Group/Air Canada)

"I am extremely proud of the recognition as 2024 APEX Best in Entertainment Award in North America, reflecting the unparalleled entertainment offering onboard our aircraft. With thousands of hours of movies, TV shows and audio podcasts available, our customers clearly are appreciative of the wide variety of options during their flights. I thank our customers for their loyalty. We're continuing to add content to our on-demand and live IFE offerings, so stay tuned as more exciting products will be rolled out soon!" said John Moody, Managing Director, Onboard Product at Air Canada.