Air Canada launches direct Vancouver-Manila route

Air Canada launched its nonstop Vancouver-Manila route on April 3, 2025, becoming the only Canadian carrier flying to the Philippines.

The inaugural flight arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 with nearly 300 passengers and was greeted with a water cannon salute.

The service will increase from three to four times weekly starting May 1, 2025, due to strong travel demand.

This route makes the Philippines Air Canada's third destination in Southeast Asia, with DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco stating it will boost tourism, trade, and connectivity.

The nonstop flight reduces travel time to 12-14 hours from the previous 20-21 hours.

Canada ranks sixth among the Philippines' top tourist markets, recording 269,300 Canadian visitors in 2024.

Air Canada's managing director for international sales Rocky Lo stated that Filipino students in Canada have emerged as the third largest foreign group in that country, and Filipino tourists in Canada reached 143,000 last year.

The airline is also exploring partnerships with Philippine Airlines to expand its network within the Philippines.