Residents and travellers in Northern Ontario have received welcome news regarding air service. Following the departure of Air Canada from North Bay's Jack Garland Airport, a new carrier has stepped in to fill the critical transportation gap.
A New Beginning for Regional Air Travel
The airport, a vital hub for the region, will see a Quebec-based airline commence operations in early 2026. This announcement, made public on December 19, 2025, comes as a significant relief for the community and businesses that rely on consistent air connectivity. The departure of a major carrier like Air Canada had raised concerns about travel options and economic impact for North Bay and surrounding areas.
Details of the New Service
While the specific name of the Quebec airline and the exact routes have not been disclosed in the initial announcement, the commitment to begin service next year is firm. The move demonstrates a carrier's confidence in the travel demand within Northern Ontario. The Jack Garland Airport will serve as the operational base for this new venture, ensuring the facility remains active and continues to support local jobs and the broader economy.
The introduction of this service is particularly crucial for:
- Business travellers requiring reliable connections.
- Residents visiting family or accessing services in other cities.
- The tourism sector, which benefits from improved visitor access.
Looking Ahead for Northern Ontario Connectivity
This development stabilizes the air travel landscape in North Bay at a pivotal time. The arrival of a new airline promises to maintain essential links for the community, potentially offering more competitive fares and schedule options. It underscores the importance of regional airports in Canada's vast transportation network and their role in sustaining remote and northern communities.
Airport officials and local leaders are likely viewing this as a positive step forward. The focus will now shift to the upcoming launch, where further details regarding destinations, flight schedules, and ticket availability are eagerly awaited by the public. The new service represents not just a replacement, but an opportunity for renewed growth in regional air travel out of North Bay.
