Cardiff Airport lands First Wales–Canada Route in Nearly 20 Years
Cardiff Airport lands First Wales–Canada Route in Nearly 20 Years
Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.
Cardiff Airport has secured its first direct air link to Canada in almost 20 years, following WestJet’s decision to launch a new non-stop service to Toronto from May 2026.
The Canadian low-cost carrier will operate four flights per week, offering travellers in Wales, the South West and the Midlands a new long-haul option and restoring a transatlantic connection last seen in 2008.
The announcement marks a significant development in the airport’s growth strategy and comes as part of WestJet’s wider expansion in the UK.
As part of the move, the airline has selected Cardiff as its exclusive airport in both Wales and England for 2026.
Cardiff Airport said the service would strengthen international links and support rising passenger demand. Annual traffic has been steadily climbing towards the one-million mark, supported by renewed investment and a broader mix of leisure and long-haul routes.
Jon Bridge, Chief Executive Officer of Cardiff Airport, said the new Toronto service represents a major step forward for Wales’ national airport.
He 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.
“WestJet’s confidence in Cardiff reflects the growing demand for international travel from Wales, the South West of England, and the Midlands and we look forward to building a long-term partnership that delivers lasting benefits for both nations.”
The service is expected to open up easier access to WestJet’s wider North American network, with convenient onward connections from Toronto to cities including Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal.
The route also positions Cardiff to benefit from increased transatlantic demand ahead of Canada’s role as one of the host nations of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Chris White-DeVries, Senior Airport Affairs Manager, WestJet, said: “We’re thrilled to bring WestJet’s friendly, affordable and reliable service to Wales for the first time. 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.
“This route will make it easier than ever for Canadian travellers to discover Wales’ stunning coastlines and culture, while giving guests across Wales and western England seamless access to Eastern Canada and beyond.”
The Welsh Government also welcomed the announcement, highlighting the role the service could play in strengthening economic ties.
Eluned Morgan MS, First Minister of Wales, said the route would help unlock new opportunities on both sides of the Atlantic.
She said: “This is welcome news for passengers, businesses and our tourism industries, both in Wales and Canada. With good connections to other Canadian cities, the new Toronto route will open up new economic opportunities for Wales in North America.
“We have around 35 Canadian companies in Wales, employing around 6,500 people, while Canada is an export market worth over £300m a year. Ahead of our Wales Investment Summit on 1st December, this is a positive example of how we are opening up international opportunities for people and businesses in Wales.”
The new service will launch on 23 May 2026.
Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials
Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast
