Direct route from Wales to Canada announced in boost for Cardiff Airport

THE first direct air route between Wales and Canada in nearly 20 years has been confirmed.

- SION BARRY

The Toronto skyline

In a significant boost to Welsh Government-owned Cardiff Airport a new four-times-a-week service to Toronto Pearson International Airport will launch next May. It will be operated by Canada's leading lowcost carrier WestJet.

The route is the first between the two countries since the ending of a scheduled service operated by former airline Zoom in 2008. The new service will use a Boeing 737-8MAX, with outbound capacity for 154 passengers and 174 for inbound flights (which will be higher due to a lesser fuel requirement).

For the summer season next year the route is expected to attract between 20,000 to 30,000 passengers. The service will not operate during the winter season.

Chief executive of Cardiff Airport Jon Bridge said: "We're incredibly proud that WestJet has chosen Cardiff Airport as a new UK destination for summer 2026.

"This new Toronto route marks an exciting milestone in our growth and a major step forward in reconnecting Wales with North America. It will strengthen tourism, create new opportunities for trade and investment, and showcase Wales on the global stage.