Air Canada launches Vancouver-Manila route with DOT support

Air Canada inaugurated its international route connecting Vancouver with Manila on Thursday, April 3, welcoming over 200 passengers aboard the maiden flight.

The inaugural flight arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport where it was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute and cultural performances by Banda Kawayan Pilipinas, marking Air Canada's position as the sole Canadian carrier flying to the Philippines.

Starting May 1, Air Canada will operate four flights weekly (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday for Vancouver-Manila; Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday for Manila-Vancouver), increasing from three times per week in April.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) expressed support on Friday, Apr. 4, noting that the new route supports the Philippines' growing tourism sector and strengthens economic ties with Canada, which is home to nearly one million Filipinos.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco emphasized that the thrice-weekly service offers over 57,000 seats annually, reducing travel time from 20 to 12-14 hours, enhancing convenience for tourists and encouraging more visits to the Philippines' renowned destinations.