PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC -Trinidad and Tobago Wednesday welcomed the decision by Air Canada to resume direct flights from Canada beginning in May next year.
“Today’s announcement marks a significant moment for travel and for the people of Trinidad and Tobago as we celebrate the return of Air Canada’s direct service from Toronto following the cessation due to the pandemic,” said Tourism, Culture and the Arts Minister Randall Mitchell.
“This flight will again bring the world, and in particular our diaspora, closer to us, facilitating tourism, trade, and the exchange of culture between Canada and our beautiful islands.
“We are confident that this enhanced connectivity will drive new opportunities for our hospitality industry and other sectors, as well as encourage Canadians to visit and explore the rich heritage, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality that our nation is known for,” Mitchell added.
In August last year, the carrier suspended its service to Trinidad and Tobago just three months after it resumed flights to the Caribbean country.
“Air Canada has suspended service between Toronto and Port of Spain for 2023. At this point, we have no plans for resuming this route.,” the Montreal-based airline said.
The four-times-weekly flights will begin on May 1, 2025, further enhancing connectivity and economy of travel between Canada and Trinidad and Tobago and providing travelers with greater access to their destinations.
Air Canada will operate a Boeing 737 Max 8 with 169 seats, and Mitchell said, “We met with Air Canada in several Routes Americas events, and at that time, there was some uncertainty of the timing of their return.
“So, today, we are very excited about this news. The airline will provide the vital air link, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from the Canadian market back to Trinidad and Tobago with open arms. We encourage leisure, VFR, and business travelers to take advantage of this direct connection to discover all our islands have to offer,” he added.
Since the pandemic, the government said this restored air link is a significant milestone for Trinidad and Tobago’s trade and tourism sectors, marking an essential step in the recovery and growth of international travel.
“ The addition of more frequent flights to and from Toronto will not only encourage more Canadian visitors to experience the unique culture, attractions, and natural beauty of Trinidad and Tobago but will also support business and investment opportunities between the two nations,” the statement said.
It said that the return of the Air Canada service to Trinidad and Tobago is expected to positively impact several vital areas, including tourism growth and increased visitors, more accessible travel for business and trade, and cultural exchange.