Porter Airlines announced it will begin nonstop flights between Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and London International Airport (YXU) starting April 12, 2027. This route will provide the only direct service from Vancouver to London, Ontario, filling a gap left after Flair Airlines ended seasonal flights in September 2025.
Aircraft and Flight Frequency
The YVR to YXU flights will be operated 11 times per week using Embraer E195-E2 aircraft configured with 132 seats. The seating mix includes 16 PorterReserve, 20 PorterClassic Stretch, and 96 PorterClassic seats. Each seat is equipped with a power outlet for passenger convenience.
Porter Airlines’ Expansion Strategy
Since February 2023, Porter Airlines has operated Vancouver-Toronto
flights with the Embraer E195-E2, which feature free and fast WiFi. The airline has established a crew base in Vancouver for flight attendants and pilots to support its growing route network. Alongside the new London service, Porter is launching additional direct flights in spring 2027 connecting London with Edmonton, Halifax, Montreal Metropolitan Airport (MET), and Ottawa. The airline is also expanding other routes such as the Vancouver to Phoenix service.
Passenger Experience and Pricing
Porter’s aircraft feature a “no middle seat” layout promoting passenger comfort. The PorterReserve class offers front cabin extra legroom, dedicated check-in and boarding, two checked bags included, and complimentary fresh
meals with premium cocktails on longer flights. The economy experience includes complimentary wine and beer served in glassware along with premium snacks. One-way fares on the YVR-YXU route start at $386.88 in the PorterClassic fare category.
Competitive Landscape and Official Comments
No other airline currently offers direct flights between Vancouver and London, Ontario. Air Canada and WestJet provide connecting service via Calgary and Toronto. Flair Airlines discontinued its seasonal direct flights on the route as of September 2025. Brad Cicero, Porter Airlines spokesperson, said, “People have really responded well to the Porter experience.” The airline describes Montreal Metropolitan Airport, accessible on other new routes, as
offering “a premium waiting lounge environment that is fast and easy to navigate from check-in to boarding,” located 30 minutes from downtown Montreal.
