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Philippine tourism department lauds launch of Air Canada’s Vancouver-Manila route
The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) believes that Air Canada’s new direct route between Vancouver and Manila will result in a significant boost in leisure and business tourism. Passengers aboard the maiden Vancouver to Manila flight arrived at Terminal 3 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City on Thursday, 3rd April. The DOT prepared a festive welcome that included performances from local talents, as well as giving of leis and tokens. Air Canada will operate three nonstop flights per week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday throughout April and increase to four flights per week by May. The introduction of Air Canada’s non-stop flights between Vancouver and Manila reduces the previous 20-hour journey to just 12 to 14 hours. Air Canada managing director Rocky Lo pointed out that the Philippines is a fast-growing market for the Canadian commercial aviation sector. Lo said: "The flight has solidified Air Canada's position as the North American airline, serving the most non-stop destination in this region, supporting Canada's Inter Pacific strategy." Lo added that Filipino students represent the third-largest overseas student population in Canada, underscoring the importance of direct flights for both educational and cultural exchanges. New opportunities Tourism secretary Christina Frasco opined that the new route will provide more opportunities for tourism and business, providing easier access for Filipino-Canadians to fly to Manila while further opening up the country to the Canadian market. She said: “The launch of this nonstop flight is to significantly boost leisure and business tourism, further contributing directly to our local economies and enhancing the livelihood of our communities.” The tourism secretary further pointed out that Canada plays a significant role in Philippine tourism as a source market. She said, "Being home to nearly 1,000,000 people of Filipino descent, Canada is one of the largest diasporas globally. And therefore, this inaugural Air Canada flight will further foster cultural connections between our countries and drive economic growth. So this inaugural flight represents more than just mere travel, for it symbolises a powerful bridge connecting our countries closer than ever before.” Based on DOT data from this week, the Philippines has welcomed 1,682,531 visitors this year, including 91,671 from Canada. In 2024, Canada ranked sixth in tourist arrivals in the Philippines, with 269,300 visitors contributing US$304.32 million to the national economy. Canadian ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman remarked that the new route was mounted in part due to the new and economic reforms in the Philippines. Hartman said: “Recognising the importance of this route and investing in a service that meets the growing demand for travel between North America and the Philippines. This flight not only reflects the deep ties between our nations, but it will also open new opportunities for trade, tourism, and overall people-to-people connections.”
Hong Kong Airlines resumes its direct route to Vancouver
Hong Kong Airlines resumed direct flights to Vancouver, Canada on Saturday, 18th January. Celebrations were held at Hong Kong International Airport and Vancouver International Airport to mark the relaunch. Before the flight took off, senior management from Hong Kong Airlines and senior representatives from the Airport Authority Hong Kong attended a ceremony at the boarding gate, interacted with the first flight's passengers, and distributed bespoke souvenirs. Hong Kong Airlines chair Yan Bo said: "We are delighted to reinstate the Vancouver service, offering passengers more flight choices. Vancouver was Hong Kong Airlines' first North American destination, which was first launched in June 2017, and has always been popular. Resuming this route not only marks our official return to the North American market but also demonstrates the progress of our strategic transformation from a regional to an international airline earlier this year and boosting our confidence in expanding our global route network coverage." Delectable options To further enhance the passenger experience, the airline has curated a selection of Hong Kong-style in-flight meals for this route, offering a variety of Chinese, Western, and vegetarian options for both business and economy-class passengers. Hong Kong Airlines president Jeff Sun said, "Our Hong Kong-Vancouver route is operated by Airbus A330-300 aircraft, providing a high-quality and unique long-haul flight experience. Passengers from both Hong Kong and Canada can experience our attentive service and delicious meals, reflecting Hong Kong Airlines' customer-centric service approach and commitment to serving passengers in North America and around the world. This also underscores our vision of becoming a leading full-service airline in the region and internationally." As a full-service airline, Hong Kong Airlines has actively improved its services and expanded its operations in recent years. Through strategic route network optimisation and fleet adjustments, it now serves over 30 destinations, demonstrating a strong recovery. Almost back to normal Last year, flight numbers fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels, with an average passenger load factor of approximately 85 percent and over 5 million passengers carried. To support business growth, the company will continue to expand its fleet size as needed to further increase its capacity. By then, a fleet with diverse configurations will enhance operational flexibility and coverage, providing passengers convenient access to travel across mainland China, Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia via Hong Kong, as well as popular global travel destinations such as Australia, the United States, Canada, and Europe.
Air Canada to launch direct Vancouver-Manila route
Air Canada announced the addition of a new direct route between the Vancouver International Airport and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, Philippines. This announcement marks the latest phase in the strategic expansion of Air Canada’s international network. The announcement was made on Thursday, 5th December, during the Government of Canada's Team Canada Trade Mission currently taking place in the Philippines in celebration of 75 years of Canada-Philippines diplomatic relations. Air Canada’s executive vice-president for revenue and network planning / president of cargo Mark Galardo said of the new route: "We are thrilled to add Manila to our global network with new, year-round, non-stop service from Vancouver, Air Canada's Pacific gateway hub. We continue to pursue our international network strategy of expanding to large, fast-growing markets that are presently unserved directly by Air Canada. The Philippines is an important market reflecting long-standing family ties between our two countries with growing business connections and tourism opportunities.” Galardo added that, with an extensive domestic and transborder network in Vancouver designed to connect seamlessly to its international flights, Air Canada is making travel between North America and the Philippines even more convenient for leisure and business travellers alike. A pivotal addition This new service to Manila is Air Canada's third Southeast Asian route launched over the last two years. Likewise, Air Canada is the only Canadian carrier scheduled to serve the Philippines, presently the largest market in Asia without direct Air Canada service. The new route will operate four times weekly beginning 2nd April 2025, using the airline's flagship Dreamliner aircraft. It will be Air Canada's 12th route in its transpacific network from Vancouver, which includes Japan, South Korea, People's Republic of China, Hong Kong SAR, Thailand, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand, leveraging Vancouver's geographic position as the closest major North American city to Asia. With this new service, Air Canada will offer over 180 weekly flights between Canada and the Pacific by next summer, the most non-stop flights of any carrier in the market. This also marks a continuation of Air Canada's expansion into fast-growing markets into Southeast Asia, building off recent additions to Singapore and Bangkok, to more than double summer season seat capacity over the Pacific since 2022.
Plaza Premium Group opens its flagship lounge in Vancouver
Hong Kong’s Plaza Premium Group announced the opening of its flagship Canadian airport lounge at the Vancouver International Airport. The opening marks a milestone for PPG as it heralds the debut of its Plaza Premium First brand in North America, alongside the reimagined Plaza Premium Lounge. That said, the Vancouver facility offers a dual concept catering to various traveller needs. This is PPG’s third dual-concept lounge globally. The first was inaugurated at Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta Airport back in December 2022, while the second opened in Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur International Airport in March of last year. Including these recent openings, there are now five exclusive Plaza Premium First lounges worldwide. According to Plaza Premium Group senior vice-president for the Americas Pascal Bélanger: "We are thrilled to introduce Plaza Premium First to North America, offering travellers an unparalleled level of luxury and personalized service that sets a new standard in airport hospitality. As we expand our presence across the Americas, our vision remains clear: to enhance the airport experience for travellers worldwide. This new lounge at YVR embodies that vision, seamlessly blending innovation, luxury, and personalized service to redefine what an airport lounge can be.” An expansive facility Located in the airport’s International Terminal, the lounge spans nearly 1,000 square meters and accommodates 251 guests. The Plaza Premium Lounge features 136 seats, while Plaza Premium First offers an exclusive 115-seat space for travellers desiring a bespoke airport experience. The reimagined flagship PPL is designed to offer a welcoming environment for all travellers, regardless of airline or class. Key features include: Interactive Live Cooking Stations: Seasonal menus featuring rotating options like noodle bars, pasta bars, and a signature poutine station. Family-Friendly Amenities: A welcoming section for family, offering board games on request and a "Mama’s Room" for nursing mothers. Self-Service Bar: Featuring a selection of soft drinks, juices, locally sourced wines and beer from BC partners and a selection of spirits for guests to enjoy at their leisure. Shower Facilities: Premium showers are available at an additional charge of CAD 25. For travellers seeking a truly elevated experience, PPF is the pinnacle of airport hospitality. This premium offering provides a sanctuary for those who value privacy, exceptional service, and comfort. Key highlights include: Refined A La Carte Dining: A gourmet menu featuring signature dishes like Crab Omelette and Vegan Thai Curry, complemented by a premium buffet. Full-Service Bar: A curated selection of top-shelf spirits, fine wines, champagne, and handcrafted cocktails, including seasonal sustainable zero-waste creations. Spa-Like Amenities: Complimentary showers and private relaxation areas provide a serene escape before departure. Thoughtfully designed with wellness, convenience and sustainability at its core, both lounges offer quiet zones for privacy and relaxation along with complimentary WiFi, international charging ports conveniently accessible from your seat or table, and Flight Information Displays Screens (FIDS) to keep guests informed. Culinary offerings are crafted to support balanced travel, including vegetarian and vegan options, alongside fresh pastries, desserts and cookies made daily. Committed to sustainability, the lounges are 100 percent ADA compliant, practice single-use plastic, practice sustainable seafood through Ocean Wise, and proudly supports local food providers.
Hong Kong Airlines resumes flights to Vancouver from 18 Jan
Hong Kong Airlines celebrated its 18th anniversary on 28 November and announced the resumption of direct flights to Vancouver, Canada commencing 18 January 2025. The twice-weekly services will provide additional travel options for passengers travelling between Hong Kong and Vancouver, and those connecting via Hong Kong. Hong Kong Airlines Chairman Yan Bo said: "We are thrilled to welcome Vancouver back as Hong Kong Airlines' first North American destination. We aim to attract more travellers to experience Vancouver's beauty, facilitating family reunions and business collaborations. The route will further strengthen our Asian network and offer global passengers more diverse and convenient travel options, connecting Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, Oceania, and North America." Vancouver was Hong Kong Airlines' first North American destination, launched in June 2017 and has consistently proven a popular route. The airline is delighted to reinstate this service to demonstrate its commitment to returning to the international market and its strategic transformation from a regional to a global carrier, with a focus on expanding its global route network. Following a successful restructuring last year, Hong Kong Airlines has been actively enhancing its services and expanding its operations. Through strategic planning, the airline has demonstrated a strong recovery capability by optimising its route network and adjusting its fleet structure, with service now covering over 30 destinations. This year, the number of flights has fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels, with an average passenger load factor of approximately 85%. The airline expects to reach its annual traffic target of carrying more than 5 million passengers by the end of 2024. Further fleet expansion will be implemented as required to enhance capacity. This diversified fleet will improve operational flexibility and coverage, enabling convenient access from Hong Kong to popular destinations across mainland China, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Australia, the United States, Canada, and Europe. Hong Kong Airlines flight schedule* between Hong Kong and Vancouver is as follows (All times local): Route Flight Number Departure Arrival Frequency HKG – YVR HX080 22:10 18:10 Tue 23:50 19:50 Sat YVR – HKG HX081 01:50 07:00+1 Wed, Sun * Flight number and schedule may change without prior notice
Non-stop Singapore to Vancouver 4 weekly flights with Air Canada
Award-winning airline, Air Canada – a member of Star Alliance, is offering exclusive promotional deals this August in conjunction with the NATAS Holidays 2024 travel fair. What’s more, be rewarded with a pre-paid Mastercard® gift card for up to $250 CAD (approximately $240 SGD) when you book your stay in one of 43 downtown Vancouver hotels for two or more nights. Ideal for travellers on a free-and-easy itinerary, this exclusive offer is in partnership with Destination Vancouver and Vancouver Hotel Destination Association – available only for Air Canada passengers from Singapore. Gift cards are provided upon hotel check-in. For travellers seeking tour packages, Air Canada – through selected travel agencies at the travel fair – is offering unique tour itineraries to Canada, which include the magical Canadian Northern Lights, the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls and the natural wonders of the Canadian Rockies. For travellers who love to go on a cruise, simply book a Fly-Cruise package for a memorable Canadian experience. Whether you are a solo traveller, or travelling with your partner or friends, Air Canada has something for everyone to start exploring Canada all year-round. These exclusive deals capped off Air Canada’s recent launch of its non-stop flights between Singapore and Vancouver in April this year – the only carrier that offers direct services to Vancouver from Singapore. Discover more of Canada: Canada is closer than you think! Fly direct from Singapore to Vancouver in just over 14 hours to explore the fascinating western coastal city of Vancouver, before embarking on your next great adventure exploring Canada and beyond. Experience the magic of Halloween in Vancouver with fun, spooky events, and join in the festive spirit with Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations! Visit top attractions in and around Vancouver - accessible all year-round, such as VanDusen Botanical Garden, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, and Grouse Mountain – just to name a few – all with the promise of a wonderland of experiences. Families planning trips for the December school holidays will have Christmas festivities to look forward to in Vancouver when the entire town is decked out in lights and Christmas markets bring celebrations to life. Start with the iconic Vancouver Christmas market, then make your way to Christmas Glow at Langley, and don’t forget to visit VanDusen Festival of Lights at Vancouver’s finest botanical garden. Not to forget that flying with your family on Air Canada, the Most Family Friendly Airline in North America 2024 rated by Skytrax, will be a fun experience in itself! For those with a penchant for snowboarding and skiing with their snow-loving children can look forward to the world-renowned powder snow at the slopes of Whistler. Other than unforgettable experiences bonding over snow activities, Wintersphere is the ultimate, indoor winter wonderland experience with visits from Santa, entertainers, a holiday café, kids crafts, Wintersphere's signature holiday maze and much more. This spectacular, festive pop-up is a true holiday favourite for locals and visitors alike. Travellers with more leisure time who are looking to explore further can consider fly-cruise packages with Air Canada. Enjoy a hassle-free and value-for-money experience, as you take in the breathtaking landscape of the Last Frontier – Alaska in ultimate comfort. From family trips to leisurely cruises and free-and-easy itineraries – a great adventure in Canada awaits the traveller seeking incredible deals to explore a destination that will make you the envy of your friends.
TAT and Air Canada announce continuation of seasonal Vancouver-Bangkok service
In partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Air Canada, Canada's largest airline and a founding member of the Star Alliance network, announces the resumption of its seasonal Vancouver to Bangkok service, effective October 27, 2024. Due to the increased popularity and success of this flight since its implementation in 2022, Air Canada has moved up the start date which previously commenced at the beginning of December. From October 27, 2024 through the end of November 2024, Air Canada will operate three weekly flights on this route, providing travellers with increased accessibility to the vibrant city of Bangkok, known for its rich culture, cuisine, and natural splendor. Starting in December 2024 and continuing through March 2025, Air Canada will further enhance connectivity with five weekly flights, catering to the growing demand for travel between Vancouver and Bangkok. The airline operates on the route using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner with 298 seats comprising 30 in Air Canada Signature, 21 in Premium Economy, and 247 in Economy Class. The decision to expand service on this route reflects TAT and Air Canada's shared commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences and meeting the evolving needs of passengers who are increasingly looking to escape the cold Canadian winter to enjoy Thailand’s warm weather and hospitality. Director Chompu Marusachot of TAT New York Office expressed her excitement about Air Canada's heightened service, stating, “We are delighted to see Air Canada's commitment to enhancing connectivity between Canada and Thailand. The continuation of this service with an advanced start date signifies the strong partnership between our two countries and opens up new avenues for travelers to explore the diverse offerings of Thailand. Together, we aim to create unforgettable journeys for Canadian travelers while contributing to the development of Thailand's tourism industry.” The continuation of the direct Vancouver-Bangkok service sets the stage for many more mutual partnerships between the Canadian and Thai tourism industry, emphasizing the kingdom's 5F Thai soft powers – Food, Film, Festival, Fight, and Fashion – to provide unforgettable experiences for tourists. Moreover, by prioritizing sustainability and aiming to achieve net zero emissions from all global operations by 2050, Air Canada sets industry standards for responsible air travel and aligns with TAT’s sustainable tourism direction. With a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax and a comprehensive travel loyalty program through Aeroplan, Air Canada continues to uphold its reputation for excellence in air travel. Air Canada continues to assess its global network and refine its schedule to meet consumer demand.
Air Canada to launch new Vancouver-Dubai service
New non-stop flights between Vancouver and Dubai starting October 28. (CNW Group/Air Canada) Air Canada announced the strategic expansion of its international network with the addition of new, non-stop flights from its hub at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Dubai. The new route will operate four times weekly beginning Oct. 28, 2023 onboard Air Canada's flagship Dreamliner fleet. The carrier's new Vancouver-Dubai flights will complement Air Canada's daily service between Toronto and Dubai, broadening its presence in fast-growing international markets. "We are extremely pleased to add the only non-stop service linking Vancouver and Dubai, two iconic and vibrant global destinations. Dubai is one of the top destinations worldwide renowned for its extraordinary landmarks, rich culture and entertainment. Vancouver is a top cosmopolitan destination, and this new route offers additional ease to global visitors looking to experience BC's spectacular natural beauty, range of outdoor activities and exciting adventures. In cooperation with our codeshare and frequent flyer partner Emirates, our Vancouver-Dubai flights will connect to a multitude of destinations across the Middle East, Indian subcontinent and East Africa in Dubai, providing customers with choice and convenience while travelling for business or visiting friends and family," said Mark Galardo, senior vice president, network planning and revenue management, at Air Canada. "Adding this new transportation link from Dubai will allow visitors to more easily and efficiently experience all B.C. has to offer," said Rob Fleming, British Columbia Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. "From the vibrancy of our globally recognized cities to the splendor of Super Natural British Columbia, Air Canada's new service brings added global connections, that will directly benefit people throughout our province." "We are delighted Air Canada is introducing new service to Dubai from YVR. Direct service to Dubai, with convenient onward connection to southern India and other key destinations across the Middle East, will provide new opportunities for travel, education and access to global markets that will help meet the needs of our community and economy that supports it. I'd like to thank Air Canada for its ongoing commitment to YVR and support with connecting B.C. to the world," Tamara Vrooman, president & CEO at Vancouver Airport Authority. "Direct air travel is the lifeline of modern business, allowing entrepreneurs to connect with clients, partners, and opportunities across the globe with speed and efficiency. Connecting Vancouver directly with more destinations brings us closer, drives innovation, and encourages growth in our interconnected world. As such, the investment by Air Canada in this new route will certainly contribute positively to our region," said Bridgitte Anderson, president and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade. "With this new route, British Columbia will be connected to a significant market that can only benefit the province's visitor economy considering the UAE ranks fifth in the world in terms of outbound expenditures on travel and tourism according to the UNWTO. We congratulate Air Canada in the confidence they are showing our province," said Walt Judas, President and CEO, Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia. Air Canada's international services Air Canada's international onboard services showcase some of Canada's best culinary talent through Air Canada's panel of celebrated chefs, comprising award-winning, Vancouver-based chefs David Hawksworth and Vikram Vij, and renowned Montreal chefs Antonio Park and Jérôme Ferrer. Complementing the culinary journey is a selection of top wines chosen by leading Canadian sommelier, Véronique Rivest. Customers have opportunities to collect and redeem points through Aeroplan, Canada's leading loyalty program, when travelling with Air Canada, and eligible customers have access to priority check-in, Maple Leaf Lounges, priority boarding and other benefits including Air Canada's exclusive Signature Suite at YVR. The Vancouver and Dubai flights will be operated with Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft featuring three cabins of service for customers to choose from, including Signature Class with lie-flat seats, Premium Economy and Economy Class. Seats are available for sale now at aircanada.com, via the Air Canada App, Air Canada's Contact Centres, and travel agents.
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