Rocky Lo, Air Canada's Managing Director of International Sales, highlights global expansion and new standards for onboard experience

Air Canada is undertaking one of the most significant fleet modernization processes in its history. The company anticipates the arrival of approximately 90 new wide-body and narrow-body aircraft in the coming years, a move that should enhance its international expansion capabilities.

According to Rocky Lo, Managing Director of International Sales at Air Canada, this renewal opens up new growth possibilities in several global markets, including Brazil.

“Air Canada will have 90 new aircraft arriving in the next five years, and we are looking for different potential opportunities to fly globally, and Brazil is one of those destinations,” says Lo.

The executive emphasizes that the growth strategy will also depend on working together with local partners. “Once the 90 new aircraft arrive in the next four or five years, the company will be able to realize its expansion potential. Working with local partners, such as the tourism industry, governments, and airports, will be crucial to finding these opportunities,” he explains.

Global connectivity expands Brazil's role in the company's network

With a growing presence in different regions of the world, Air Canada seeks to strengthen its position as a global airline. The company already connects several countries in Latin America and has been expanding its network in various strategic regions.

"Air Canada is a global airline and is increasingly expanding its network, connecting the world," Lo points out.

Currently, the company operates flights to Brazil, Mexico, Peru, Chile, Argentina, Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Belize, and various destinations in the Caribbean. Recent expansions include the return of operations to Lima and the new route between Santiago and Montreal, as well as announced flights to Quito from Toronto and Montreal.

The company is also strengthening its presence in other regions, with routes such as Toronto–Madrid and a seasonal flight to Sapporo, Japan.

According to Lo, the company's strategy goes beyond connecting Canada and Brazil. "Our mission goes beyond bringing Canadians to Brazil and Brazilians to Canada; we want to connect travelers to wherever they want to go, and our air network allows for that," he states.

One of the operation's strengths is the ease of connections at Canadian airports. "We facilitate connections in Canada for Brazilian travelers on this journey, as flights from Brazil arrive early in Toronto and Montreal, allowing connections throughout Canada, more than 50 airports in the United States, and also to Asia, Oceania, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and Europe," he explains.

Competitive advantages strengthen presence in the Brazilian market

The international aviation market remains highly competitive, especially on strategic routes connecting South and North America. To stand out in this environment, Air Canada focuses on operational and service differentiators.

“The aviation market is highly competitive, and Air Canada is used to that. The company focuses on its unique selling points,” says Lo.

One of the main advantages is the operation of direct flights between Brazil and Canada, in addition to the passenger support infrastructure at Canadian airports.

Another highlight is the U.S. immigration pre-clearance process available at Toronto and Montreal airports. This system allows transit passengers to complete immigration procedures in Canada and then disembark at domestic terminals in the United States.

According to Lo, this process can significantly reduce waiting times. "It allows transit passengers to disembark at domestic terminals in more than 50 airports across the United States and go through immigration in under 90 minutes, without needing to collect their luggage," he explains.

Air Canada also offers flights to the three main airports in the New York area — JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark — expanding options for passengers continuing their journey within the United States.

Canadian cuisine and culture take center stage in the onboard experience

Passenger experience has become a central element in airline strategy. At Air Canada, initiatives related to gastronomy and cabin design are part of this positioning.

The company maintains partnerships with renowned Canadian chefs to develop its onboard menus in different service classes.

“Air Canada partners with renowned Canadian chefs to design their onboard menus, not only in the Signature cabin, but also in Premium Economy and Economy,” explains Lo.

In the Signature Suite — an exclusive lounge for business class passengers in Toronto and Vancouver — guests can even find a restaurant with à la carte service.

The company also develops specific menus for certain routes, adapted to the gastronomic culture of the destinations. On flights to Japan, for example, Kaiseki menus created by Canadian chefs of Japanese origin are offered.

According to Lo, the goal is to provide passengers with an experience that represents the country's identity. "The company aims for customers to experience Canadian culture, friendship, diversity, and sustainability on board," he says.

Technology, expansion, and service quality guide priorities

Following a recent period of operational recovery and positive financial results, Air Canada remains focused on strengthening its global presence.

According to Lo, the strategic priorities involve modernizing the fleet, adopting new technologies, and continuously improving passenger service.

"Air Canada's priority remains improving service with a focus on passenger comfort, acquiring better technologies and equipment, and creating modern cabins," he explains.

The executive also highlights the importance of the relationship with industry partners. "We also prioritize close support for our operational partners and competitiveness based on deliverables," he states.

With the arrival of the new aircraft and the expansion of its international network, the company seeks to consolidate its position as a global carrier capable of connecting passengers to different destinations around the world.

Reporting and photo: Mary de Aquino.