Air Canada announced yesterday the launch of a new seasonal direct route between Toronto (YYZ) and Ponta Delgada (PDL), which will operate between June 17 and September 5, 2026, strengthening the Azores’ connectivity to the North American market—one of the most strategic for the sustainable growth of tourism in the archipelago. The new connection will operate three times weekly with a Boeing 737 MAX 8, seating 169 passengers, thereby increasing the archipelago’s accessibility for Canadian travelers seeking a destination known for its authenticity, preserved nature, and unique outdoor experiences. The airline’s decision follows a cycle of investments in promoting the destination in the Canadian market.

Among the initiatives that contributed to this commitment, the ACTA European Summit 2024 Conference, held on the islands of São Miguel and Terceira, stands out. It showcased the region’s tourism potential to a large group of Canadian agents and operators, significantly reinforcing the destination’s notoriety and attractiveness. Luis Capdeville, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Visit Azores, emphasizes: “Air Canada’s decision to move forward with the direct Toronto-Ponta Delgada route represents a strategic step in strengthening our presence in the North American market.

The Canadian market has enormous growth potential, especially in winter, and this operation demonstrates confidence in the Azores as a destination and in the work we have been doing. The ACTA European Summit 2024 Conference, held in São Miguel and Terceira, significantly increased the archipelago’s visibility in Canada. As usual, Visit Azores will work closely with the airline to ensure that all the islands are promoted, reinforcing sustainable and high-quality tourism.”

In Diário dos Açores-Paulo Viveiros, director.

Translated into English as a community outreach program by the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL), in collaboration with Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno. PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.