Air Canada expands its Toronto Island operations with new routes to the United States
The airline is adding direct flights to New York, Boston, Chicago, and Washington, in addition to increasing frequencies to Montreal and Ottawa. The expansion consolidates its presence at Billy Bishop Airport and strengthens cross-border connectivity
Air Canada announced a strategic expansion of its network from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, including the addition of service to four major U.S. destinations and an increase in domestic operations. The initiative is part of a comprehensive plan to strengthen connectivity from downtown Toronto and improve the passenger experience.
Beginning in spring 2026, the airline will offer nonstop flights to New York (LaGuardia) with four daily flights, to Boston (Logan) with three, to Chicago (O'Hare) with two, and to Washington (Dulles) with one. The launch will coincide with the implementation of the U.S. Customs Preclearance system at Billy Bishop, which will allow immigration procedures to be completed before boarding.
Domestically, an increase in frequencies to Montreal and Ottawa is planned, with nine and six daily flights respectively, starting in January 2026.
Mark Galardo, Air Canada's executive vice president and chief commercial officer, emphasized that this initiative represents "the most significant expansion on Toronto Island since the airline began operating there 35 years ago." According to the executive, the new routes will strengthen trade ties between Canada and major U.S. financial centers, while expanding options for corporate travelers.
The service enhancements at Billy Bishop include the introduction of free, fast Wi-Fi on all flights, premium snacks, complimentary beverages, and exclusive access to the Aspire Air Canada Café. These amenities position the company as the only airline to offer free in-flight connectivity from Toronto Island.
RJ Steenstra, president and CEO of PortsToronto, emphasized that the expansion “reinforces our shared commitment to connectivity, convenience, and traveler choice,” cementing the airport's role as a benchmark in urban air mobility.
The new flights will be operated by Air Canada Express, through its regional partner Jazz Aviation LP, using De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft with capacity for 78 passengers.
In parallel, the airline will begin a cabin renovation program on 25 aircraft of this model, which will incorporate new ergonomic seats, redesigned upholstery, a mobile device holder, and an interior inspired by Canadian landscapes. The process will be completed by mid-2026, maintaining the same capacity per aircraft.
With this expansion, Air Canada complements its operations at Toronto Pearson, from where it plans to operate more than 600 daily flights to 124 destinations by summer 2026.