Air Canada will introduce seven new direct international routes in summer 2027, expanding its global network with five new destinations and increased schedules in existing markets. The airline expects this growth to create 1,500 new jobs by 2028 and increase Canada’s gross domestic product by more than $7 billion annually.
New Routes from Toronto, Vancouver, and Montréal
The new services will operate from Air Canada’s hubs in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montréal. Vancouver will receive a new year-round route to Guangzhou, China, pending government approvals. Air Canada is currently the only North American carrier serving Guangzhou, making it its third destination in mainland China alongside Beijing and Shanghai.
Together, the carrier operates up to 24 weekly flights to these Chinese cities.
Toronto will launch three new routes to Oslo, Norway; Shannon, Ireland; and Nice, France. The Toronto-Oslo service will mark Air Canada’s third Scandinavian destination following Stockholm and Copenhagen, and its only non-stop flight to Norway from North America. The Shannon route is Air Canada’s second destination in Ireland, complementing existing service to Dublin and providing the only non-stop flights from Canada to Ireland’s west coast.
Significance of Expansion and Market Position
Mark Galardo, Air Canada’s Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer, described the summer 2027 launch as the airline’s largest intercontinental expansion in
history. He stated the expansion solidifies Air Canada’s position as the second largest North American carrier by global destinations served. This development extends the airline’s global reach and strengthens its network connectivity.
Benefits for Travelers
Starting in summer 2027, travelers will gain increased direct flight options to international destinations from major Canadian cities. Some new services, including the Vancouver-Guangzhou route, will operate year-round, enhancing continuous connectivity between Canada and key global markets.
