Air Canada is planning the introduction of additional direct flights between the Philippines and Canada as part of its strategy to expand its Asia-Pacific route network, according to Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista.
This potential expansion was a key topic during a recent meeting between Bautista and Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines, David Hartman, aimed at enhancing trade, tourism, and economic connections between the two nations. Bautista emphasized the importance of ramping up international linkages, stating, “We are ramping up linkages with other international destinations. Our aim is to launch and expand new routes of flight networks in various parts of the world.”
He highlighted the significance of the Philippines-Canada relationship, which has flourished for 75 years since its inception in 1949.
The proposed additional flights are expected to bolster economic resilience in the Philippines.
“It will contribute not only to our economic growth but also to the growth of both of our societies,” Bautista said at the meeting with Ambassador Hartman.
The Canadian envoy expressed optimism regarding the potential for immediate implementation of the expanded flights to meet the growing demand for travel between the two regions.
Looking ahead, Bautista announced that during the upcoming Aviation Summit 2024 in October, the Department of Transportation plans to unveil new routes to various countries.
This initiative aims to provide travelers with greater flexibility and attract more foreign tourists to the Philippines. Additionally, in a related development, direct flights between the Philippines and France are set to commence on December 8, further underscoring the ongoing expansion of the Asia-Pacific route network.
