Air Canada Unveils Major Winter Network Expansion for 2026
Air Canada has announced a significant expansion of its winter network for 2026, introducing new international destinations, extending seasonal routes to year-round service, and adding more sun destination options from Western Canada. The strategic move builds on the airline's recent announcement of exclusive non-stop flights from North America to Sapporo, Japan.
New South American Gateway: Quito, Ecuador
Beginning in early December 2026, Air Canada will launch service to Quito, Ecuador's capital city known for its rich historical heritage and stunning Andean setting. The airline will operate three weekly flights from Montreal and one weekly flight from Toronto, utilizing Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft featuring Signature Class, Premium Economy, and Economy cabin options.
These new Quito routes have been specifically designed to connect through Air Canada's Toronto and Montreal global hubs, facilitating convenient travel connections throughout North America and Europe for passengers heading to or from Ecuador.
Enhanced European Connectivity with Year-Round Service
Starting in October 2026, Air Canada will transition its Toronto-Manchester and Toronto-Copenhagen routes from seasonal to year-round service. This expansion represents a strategic enhancement of operations at the airline's primary global hub in Toronto.
Both European routes will be operated using Air Canada's newest fleet addition: the Airbus A321XLR aircraft. Notably, these will be the first narrow-body aircraft in Air Canada's fleet to feature the premium Signature Class with lie-flat seating, offering business travelers enhanced comfort on transatlantic flights.
Expanded Latin American Presence
Air Canada is significantly bolstering its South American network with expanded winter service to multiple destinations. The airline will increase frequencies and implement earlier seasonal starts for flights to Rio de Janeiro and Lima, while also enhancing its newly-launched Montreal-Santiago service.
For flights to Bogotá, Colombia, Air Canada will deploy Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft featuring three-cabin configurations that include the airline's industry-recognized Signature Class with lie-flat seating.
New Sun Destination Options from Calgary
Western Canadian travelers will gain additional winter escape options with new services from Calgary to Cancun and Puerto Vallarta launching in December 2026. These routes cater specifically to growing demand from brand-loyal customers in the Calgary region seeking warm-weather beach destinations in Mexico.
Strategic Infrastructure Investments
The expanded European year-round service is enabled by Air Canada's new Airbus A321XLR base at Toronto-Pearson International Airport, which complements a previously announced base at Montreal-Trudeau International Airport. This infrastructure investment supports the airline's strategic growth initiatives and enhances operational flexibility.
Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Air Canada, emphasized the strategic importance of these expansions: "With a comprehensive network spanning all six inhabited continents, Air Canada's expanded winter schedule further cements our hubs as premier global gateways facilitating fast, convenient travel. These exciting new additions and enhancements are a catalyst to facilitating tourism, trade and connectivity."
Galardo added that the airline is "continuing our strategic expansion into Latin America, taking advantage of continued demand strength and cargo opportunities" while leveraging new aircraft capabilities to enhance service offerings.
All newly announced flights are now available for purchase through Air Canada's official website and booking channels. The winter 2026 expansion represents one of the airline's most comprehensive network enhancements in recent years, offering Canadian travelers more international options during the peak winter travel season.
