Air Canada is set to enhance its transatlantic offerings with the launch of a new seasonal route connecting Porto, Portugal, directly to Montréal, Canada.
This expansion, scheduled to commence on June 5, 2025, marks a pivotal moment for both cities, fostering increased tourism and business opportunities.
The inaugural flight will see Air Canada’s aircraft touch down in Porto, Portugal’s vibrant second city, before embarking on its return journey to Montréal, its Canadian hub, later that same day.
This new service complements Air Canada’s existing flights from Lisbon, further solidifying its presence in the Iberian Peninsula.
Untapped Market Potential
Porto’s geographical advantage, situated on the edge of Europe, positions it as an ideal gateway for transatlantic travel.
This new route is designed to cater not only to Portuguese travelers but also to those residing in northern Spanish regions like Galicia, which currently lack direct connections to North America. Air Canada recognizes the untapped potential of this market and seeks to bridge this connectivity gap.
Flight Scheduling
The seasonal route will operate three times weekly, with flights departing Porto on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays in the afternoon.
Passengers can anticipate a comfortable journey of just over seven hours to Montréal, Quebec. Conversely, return flights will depart Montréal on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays in the evening, arriving in Porto the following morning.
Travelers seeking an elevated experience can enjoy the comfort of Air Canada’s A330-300 aircraft, offering both Premium Economy and Economy class options. This service will be available until September 30, 2025, providing ample opportunity for summer travel.
Jose Antonio Blazquez Ballarin, Air Canada’s Country Manager Sales for Spain and Portugal, expressed enthusiasm for the new route. “We are eagerly anticipating the launch of our new connection between Portugal and Canada.”
“As the leading airline between Europe and Canada, our mission is to provide convenient transatlantic connections, fostering tourism and business opportunities. This new route underscores our commitment to this market.”
He further highlighted the airline’s excitement in welcoming passengers from Porto, Galicia, and the broader Iberian Peninsula, complementing their existing operations in Barcelona, Lisbon, and Madrid.
Élise Racicot, Ambassador of Canada to Portugal, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the route’s potential to strengthen bilateral relations.
“The expansion of Air Canada’s operations in Portugal, particularly with the new Porto route, will undoubtedly enhance the friendship between our nations, fostering interpersonal and business ties,” she remarked.
Karen Strougo, Chief Commercial Officer of ANA | VINCI Airports, welcomed Air Canada to Porto Airport, recognizing the route as a testament to the region’s increasing attractiveness and enhanced connectivity with North America. She also acknowledged the hard work of ANA | VINCI Airports’ teams and their route development strategy, reinforcing the airport’s importance and growth.
Exploring Montréal
Montréal, known for its unique blend of European charm and North American dynamism, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, culinary delights, and artistic expression.
Located in the French-speaking province of Quebec, Canada’s second-largest city boasts iconic landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Basilica and the historic Old Port. Travelers can indulge in the city’s renowned bagels and poutine, and immerse themselves in its vibrant cultural scene.
Montréal hosts world-renowned events like the Montreal Jazz Festival and Just For Laughs comedy festival. Additionally, the city caters to motorsport enthusiasts with the annual Canadian Grand Prix, scheduled for June 15 this year.
Iberian Peninsula Services
This summer, Air Canada will operate up to 42 weekly flights from the Iberian Peninsula to Canada, including routes from Barcelona, Lisbon, and Madrid to Montréal and Toronto, alongside the new Porto to Montréal service. This extensive network provides seamless connections to numerous Canadian cities and beyond.
Air Canada’s global network also offers convenient connections via Canada to destinations in the United States, the Caribbean, South America, and Mexico.
Passengers traveling to the U.S. through Air Canada’s hubs benefit from US customs preclearance, allowing them to complete all immigration and customs formalities before departure. This permits them to arrive in the U.S. as domestic passengers.
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