In a landmark development for Welsh aviation, the first direct air link between Wales and Canada in nearly two decades has been confirmed. Cardiff Airport will welcome a new scheduled service to Toronto Pearson International Airport, operated by Canadian low-cost carrier WestJet, commencing on 23rd May 2026.
A Significant Transatlantic Connection
The new route, which will operate four times weekly during the summer season, marks the first direct connection between the two nations since the scheduled service by airline Zoom ended back in 2008. The service will utilise a Boeing 737-8MAX aircraft, with capacity for 154 passengers on outbound flights and 174 on inbound journeys due to reduced fuel requirements. Projections indicate the route will attract between 20,000 and 30,000 passengers in its first summer season, with no operations during the winter months.
Boosting Tourism and Trade
Jon Bridge, Chief Executive of Cardiff Airport, expressed immense pride in the new partnership. "We're incredibly proud that WestJet has chosen Cardiff Airport as a new UK destination for summer 2026," he stated. "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."
Chris White-DeVries, WestJet's Senior Airport Affairs Manager, echoed this enthusiasm, highlighting the mutual benefits. "We're thrilled to bring WestJet's friendly, affordable and reliable service to Wales for the first time," he said. "Cardiff is a vibrant capital with a proud and rich history, and we see huge potential in connecting it directly with Toronto, a key gateway to North America."
Economic Implications and Support
First Minister Eluned Morgan welcomed the news, emphasising its significance for the Welsh economy. She noted that with around 35 Canadian companies already in Wales, employing approximately 6,500 people, and Canada being an export market worth over £300 million annually, the route will open up substantial new economic opportunities.
The new service is being backed with undisclosed financial support from Cardiff Airport, which the airport describes as a commercially scrutinised partnership designed for long-term sustainability. This development occurs against a backdrop of a legal challenge from Bristol Airport over a separate £205 million subsidy support package for the Rhoose-based airport, with an appeal to be heard in February.
Latest Civil Aviation Authority figures show Cardiff Airport handled 907,000 passengers in the year to the end of July 2025, a rise from 872,000 the previous year, though still below its pre-pandemic peak of 1.6 million.
