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- Flights from London to Toronto from just £434 pp rtn, and Montréal from £408 pp rtn –

- Additional Toronto flights from Manchester and Glasgow -

  UK travellers can experience the ultimate winter escape to incredible Canadian destinations with Air Transat.   Throughout the winter, Air Transat offers direct daily flights from London Gatwick to Toronto with Economy Class fares from £434 pp return, and three times weekly flights to Montréal from £408 pp return. Additionally, there are up to twice-weekly services to Toronto from Glasgow from £346 pp return and from Manchester from £466 pp return^*.   According to a recent survey^**, 76% of respondents agreed that Canadian scenery is ‘world leading', why not experience it in person this winter? With 63% stating the natural beauty would be one of the best things about Canada in general, what better way to experience this than admiring the snowy landscapes of Ontario, the partially frozen beauty of Niagara Falls, or a winter adventure through the many national parks of Quebec, with plenty of cosy and welcoming pit stops to warm up along the way. And, while you may come for the stunning winter scenery, outdoor adventures and wonderful wildlife, there is a whole lot more on offer.   Even with winter's chill in the air, Toronto remains a vibrant city, teeming with life and offering an abundance of activities for all ages. From outdoor adventures to cosy indoor pursuits, there's something for everyone to enjoy:  

• Snowshoe across the Toronto Islands: Just a 10-minute ferry journey from downtown Toronto, the Toronto Islands offer fantastic snowshoeing opportunities. Discover skiing trails or venture off-path to explore the island's hidden wonders at your own pace.

 

• Ice Wine season: Open to trying something different like ice wine? January is Ice wine season in Niagara and what better way to sample the signature flavours than during the month-long celebration with various festivals throughout the region.

  Montréal transforms into a picturesque wonderland during the winter months. The city's streets adorned with snow, iconic architecture, and the charm of Old Montréal create a magical atmosphere.  

• Luminothérapie beckons you to immerse yourself in a northern-inspired journey through radiant and interactive artworks. Each winter, the Quartier des Spectacles in downtown Montréal is transformed by a vibrant, playful, and interactive art installation, illuminating the hearts, bodies, and minds of all who engage with it.

 

• Igloofest: Known as the coldest music festival in the world, Iglooofest infuses the city streets with electrifying beats and dance during the winter months. Whether you're a fervent fan of electronic music or seeking a distinctive way to embrace the cold, this is an essential Montréal winter experience you won't want to miss.

 

• Hôtel de Glace: Open to experiencing luxury in a castle carved out of 2,000 ice blocks and 30,000 tons of snow? Why not head to Quebec City where you can brave the ultimate winter experience of a nights stay, or visit for the day and enjoy this architectural marvel made entirely of snow and ice?

  Those who feel like banishing the winter blues can head for sunnier climes thanks to Air Transat’s connecting flights to Mexico and the Caribbean this winter via Toronto and Montreal.   Passengers travelling from the UK will fly on Air Transat’s modern fleet, with many flights operated by the Airbus A321LR aircraft which has the lowest environmental impact in its class.   With an in-flight meal, a welcoming atmosphere and touch screen in-flight entertainment included as standard in Economy Class, holidays start the moment passengers step on board.

  Graham McKenzie engages with Sonia Kurek of Air Transat, shedding light on the airline's dynamic expansion and sustainable practices. Contrary to misconceptions, Air Transat's operations extend far beyond a few weekly flights between Gatwick and Toronto. Kurek reveals the airline's substantial route network, encompassing daily flights from Gatwick to Toronto and Montreal, unique direct services to Quebec City, and expanded operations from Manchester, Glasgow, and Dublin. Emphasizing sustainability, Kurek discusses the airline's commitment to eliminating single-use plastics and transitioning to sustainable aviation fuel. The interview showcases Air Transat's dedication to quality service and environmental responsibility as it evolves in the aviation industry.  

Air Transat and Porter Airlines are expanding their existing codeshare pact into an airline joint venture arrangement. The airlines will gradually combine their complementary networks during 2024. It will see network optimization through scheduling and route planning. The airline joint venture expands services between North, Central and South America, Mexico and the Caribbean. The feeder network strategy will see both airlines' expansion in their respective markets. These are domestic and transborder short- and medium-haul for Porter, and international medium- and long-haul for Air Transat. "This historic agreement constitutes a significant step forward in executing Transat's strategic plan and an important milestone in developing a more sustainable competitive network," said Annick Guérard, CEO of Transat. "Through this alliance, we will accelerate the expansion of our transatlantic footprint by allowing us to leverage the domestic market served by Porter." The current codeshare agreement between Air Transat and Porter has been active since October 2022. Air Transat serves over 60 international destinations, while Porter has built a network serving destinations within Eastern Canada and the United States.

 

- Up to three times daily services from Gatwick to Toronto / Montreal, and daily flights from Glasgow, Manchester and Dublin to Toronto -

- Continuation of service on UK’s only route to Québec City -

  Air Transat, voted World's Best Leisure Airline by Skytrax, has unveiled its summer 2024 schedule from the UK and Ireland, offering passengers more opportunities to explore Canada across the summer season (May – October).   From May 2024, Air Transat will be offering twice-daily flights to Toronto, and daily flights to Montréal, from Gatwick Airport.   It will also continue its once weekly direct service to Québec City from London Gatwick, the only UK air link to the Canadian city.   Air Transat is also increasing flights from other airports it serves in the UK and Ireland and, for summer 2024, will offer up to daily services from Glasgow, Manchester and Dublin to Toronto.   For summer 2024, Air Transat will offer up to 43 direct flights every week from the UK and Ireland to destinations across Canada.   Sonia Kurek, Air Transat Commercial Director, UK & Ireland, said: “We’re delighted to be offering travellers from the UK and Ireland more choice and flexibility than ever before for summer 2024. With excellent value fares, all including meals and in-flight entertainment, a modern fleet and wide choice of flights from London Gatwick, Manchester, Glasgow and Dublin, we’re confident that Air Transat will be the airline of choice to Canada for many passengers next summer.”   Return Economy Class prices for summer 2024 are as follows:  

• London Gatwick to Toronto – from £436pp
• London Gatwick to Montréal – from £457pp
• London Gatwick to Québec City – from £497pp
• Glasgow Airport to Toronto – from £464pp
• Manchester to Toronto – from £468pp
• Dublin to Toronto – from €417pp

  In Montréal, passengers travelling from London can also connect to onward destinations including Calgary and Vancouver, as well as destinations in the USA including Los Angeles, San Francisco and Fort Lauderdale.   Passengers travelling from the UK and Ireland will fly on Air Transat’s modern fleet, with many flights operated by the Airbus A321LR aircraft which has the lowest environmental impact in its class.

Canadian carrier Air Transat has unveiled its summer 2024 transatlantic flight schedule from the UK and Ireland. It is offering passengers more opportunities to explore the breadth of Canada next summer. From May 2024, Air Transat will be offering twice-daily transatlantic flights to Toronto, and daily flights to Montréal, from London Gatwick Airport. It will also continue the weekly direct service to Québec City from London Gatwick. This is the only UK air link to the city. Air Transat is also increasing flights from other regional airports in the UK and Ireland. Next summer there will an increase in flights up to daily frequencies from Glasgow, Manchester and Dublin to Toronto. Overall, Air Transat will offer up to 43 direct transatlantic flights every week from the UK and Ireland to destinations across Canada. London Gatwick to Toronto economy return fares start from £436pp. Sonia Kurek, Air Transat Commercial Director, UK & Ireland, said: "We're delighted to offer more choice and flexibility than ever before for summer 2024.” “We're confident that Air Transat will be the airline of choice to Canada for many passengers next summer."

  Leading Canadian airline Air Transat, voted World's Best Leisure Airline by Skytrax, has unveiled the results of a survey which uncovers intriguing insights into Britons’ perceptions of Canada’s most notable exports, ranging from revolutionary inventions to iconic personalities.   The research has been conducted as part of a brand evolution being launched by Air Transat this autumn, with a new strapline “Where Open Minds Fly”. This is designed to engage the more open-minded travellers that have always been attracted to Canada, such as those looking for sensory experiences including art, music, stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventure.   The survey was conducted among 2,000 UK adults last month, and sought to discern their knowledge gaps about Canada. The research indicates that Canada has made a significant impact on the global stage, producing a diverse array of contributions over various fields.   Britons highlighted insulin as the greatest Canadian export, the ground-breaking innovation which has transformed the treatment of diabetes, with the life-saving pacemaker close behind. Maple syrup, ranked in third, while peanut butter and alkaline batteries closed out the top five, demonstrating Canada’s diverse impact on daily life.   The survey also revealed that many Britons hold Canadian celebrities in high esteem, with notable figures such as actors Ryan Reynolds and Keanu Reeves, musician Bryan Adams, and iconic songstress Celine Dion garnering much admiration among respondents and highlighting the international appeal of Canadian talent.   However, the research illuminated some misconceptions among the British public. More than a fifth (22%) incorrectly identified Toronto, rather than Ottawa, as the capital of Canada, while nearly half (48%) believed that both Jim Carrey and Pamela Anderson were American.   Sonia Kurek, Commercial Director for Air Transat UK, said: "Canada has made many remarkable and significant contributions to the world in which we live, and our research has revealed many insights which will help Air Transat engage more effectively with British travellers going forward.”   Canada's natural beauty emerged as a standout feature of the nation, with 62% of respondents considering it the country's most exceptional attribute. The breath-taking scenery, labelled as 'world-leading' by 76% of respondents, is complemented by the country's diverse wildlife (42%), friendly people (23%), and a wide array of outdoor activities (26%).   While a significant proportion of respondents recognised iconic Canadian landmarks such as Niagara Falls, the survey exposed gaps in knowledge of other Canadian treasures, such as Alberta's Banff National Park and the Cabot Trail.   Nearly half of respondents (48%) who had not yet visited Canada expressed a desire to do so, while over a quarter (26%) said making a trip to Canada was on their bucket list, placing it in the top three countries in the world. A third (33%) of those who want to go were planning an outdoor camping break in the world-leading scenery, while 26% were thinking of taking a road trip and a fifth (21%) considering a city break.   Kurek added: "Canada is the ultimate destination for those seeking new adventures. We understand that post-pandemic travel, especially on long-haul journeys, can be a daunting prospect for some, which is why Air Transat remains committed to providing a wide choice of direct flights from the UK to Canada, complete with inflight entertainment and meal service included.”

 

- Prices starting from £406 pp return -

  Air Transat has unveiled the details of its 2023/2024 winter schedule, offering UK passengers a variety of options to explore Canada in the winter season, including more connecting flights than ever before.   From November 2023 to April 2024, Air Transat will be offering a daily flight from London Gatwick to Toronto and up to three weekly services to Montreal.   Return prices are as follows:  

• London Gatwick to Toronto – from £406pp
• London Gatwick to Montreal – from £407pp

  Air Transat will also be offering up to two weekly flights from both Glasgow and Manchester to Toronto over the winter season.   Winter is the perfect time to uncover all that Canada has to offer, as the beautiful Laurentian Mountains and Canadian countryside offer UK travellers the opportunity to experience a winter wonderland like no other.   Air Transat's winter flight programme will also offer onward connecting flights from Montreal and Toronto, enabling UK travellers flying with Air Transat to easily connect to winter sun destinations in the USA, Mexico, and the Caribbean.     Flights can be booked with maximum flexibility, allowing travellers to change the date and destination of their booking at no charge up to 24 hours before departure (excluding Eco Budget fares). Passengers need only to pay the fare difference, if any.   Passengers travelling from London will fly on Air Transat’s modern fleet. This includes the Airbus A330 as well as the Airbus A321LR aircraft which has the lowest environmental impact in its class.

 

The airline tops the ranking for the fifth time

  Air Transat is pleased to announce that it has been named the World’s Best Leisure Airline for the fifth time at the Skytrax World Airline Awards.   The awards ceremony took place this morning at the Paris Air Show, held at the Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace in Bourget, France. Marc-Philippe Lumpé, Chief Operations Officer of Air Transat, and Frédéric Nappert, Specialist, Systems and Standards of Air Transat, joined by members of the Air Transat flight crew, were on hand to receive this prestigious award.   “Receiving this award fills us with immense pride,” said Lumpé. “It testifies to the unique place we occupy in our passengers’ hearts, and it highlights the exceptional nature of our service and our commitment to excellence. Our unrivaled expertise, which puts our customers at the centre of all our actions, enables us to live up to the trust they place in us every day.”   “I would like to express my gratitude to all our employees, whose ongoing commitment and unwavering professionalism represent the essential elements that have earned us this most prestigious recognition,” said Annick Guérard, President and Chief Executive Officer of Transat. “Receiving this award for the fifth time illustrates their exceptional contributions, which are at the heart of our success.”   “We congratulate Air Transat on the fabulous achievement of being voted the World’s Best Leisure Airline in 2023 for the fifth time,” added Edward Plaisted, Chief Executive Officer of Skytrax. “This award is a great recognition for all of the Air Transat front line staff who are clearly delivering great standards to gain this highest level of customer satisfaction.”   Air Transat won this award in 2012, 2018, 2019, 2021 and now 2023, in addition to being voted North America’s Best Leisure Airline in 2022.

  Air Transat is increasing its services from London Gatwick to Montreal and Toronto in Canada for the 2023 summer season, including the re-introduction of its seasonal weekly direct flight to Quebec City. Increased services from Gatwick include daily flights to Montreal and double daily flights to Toronto. This comes as Air Transat celebrates 35 years since its first flight from Gatwick to Toronto.   The additions are complemented by the re-introduction of Air Transat’s seasonal weekly direct service to Quebec City operating between 24 June 24 and 17 September – the only UK air link to the Canadian city which launched for the first time last year.   Sonia Kurek, Commercial Director UK & Ireland for Air Transat, said: “We are delighted to see passenger levels continuing to grow, even after 35 years of operating transatlantic flights to Canada. Air Transat is well placed to satisfy the demand for travellers from the South East with increased frequencies for 2023. Passengers flying from Gatwick can also take advantage of onward connections across Air Transat’s network throughout Canada, and onto Florida and California in the US. We look forward to welcoming passengers onboard our award-winning services.”   Flights from London Gatwick are available to book at airtransat.com or via travel agents, with return fares starting from £414pp.   Flights can be booked with maximum flexibility, giving passengers the opportunity to modify their booking at no charge up to 24 hours before departure (excluding Eco Budget fares). Passengers need only to pay the fare difference, if any.   The increased summer services will be offered until the end of October, when the winter schedule comes into operation.

Air Transat has relaunched its agent training course with upgrades.  The free course,  in association with Online Travel Training, offers learning on the airline's onboard experience, new aircraft and routes. Agents who complete the course by 28 February, 2023 have a chance to win a £100 Love2Shop e-voucher in a monthly draw.^* The agent training course modules cover; About Air Transat: An introduction to their global network, routes and connections Fare types & inclusions: Covering the pricing structure and ancillary services Onboard comfort & inflight services: Discover the two travel classes and inflight services, along with the free-to-join kids club and youth solo travel Travel information: More about the fleet, check-in options and group travel   Air Transat flies direct to Canada year-round from Glasgow, Manchester and London Gatwick, and from Dublin in the summer.

  Air Transat has re-launched its agents training course with a raft of improvements.   The free course, which is offered in association with Online Travel Training, features training on the airline’s onboard experience, new aircraft and expanding routes.   Participants who complete the course by 28^th February, 2023 will be in with the chance to win a £100 Love2Shop e-voucher in the airline’s monthly draw.^*   The course modules also cover:  

• About Air Transat: An introduction to their global network, routes and connections
• Fare types & inclusions: Covering their simple pricing structure and ancillary services, making it easier to understand and sell
• Onboard comfort & inflight services: Discover their two travel classes, and inflight services, along with the free-to-join kids club and youth solo travel – making travel easier for families
• Travel information: Learn more about their fleet, check-in options and group travel

  Connecting the UK to Canada and beyond, Air Transat flies direct year-round from Glasgow, Manchester and London Gatwick, and from Dublin in the summer. Flying direct to Montreal and Toronto, with seamless connections to Quebec City, Vancouver, Calgary, Florida, and California.   To join the course and for more information, please visit: airtransat-ott.com

 

- Flights from the UK to Montreal and Toronto from just £339 rtn -

  Montreal-based airline Air Transat is offering travellers the opportunity to take the perfect autumn getaway from the UK to their favourite Canadian destinations.   Throughout the autumn and winter, Air Transat is offering direct services from London Gatwick to Montréal (from £349) three times a week, as well as direct daily services to Toronto (from £339). Additionally, there are up to twice-weekly services to Toronto from Glasgow (from £349) and Manchester (from £349).*   Known for its friendly locals, quirky neighbourhoods, multicultural food scene, variety of shopping opportunities and bustling atmosphere, not to mention its proximity to the Niagara Falls, Toronto has much to offer for all ages in the autumn. Some highlights this year include:  

• Toronto After Dark Film Festival: Enjoy five days filled with screenings of some of the best indie horror, sci-fi and actions movies at this annual film festival. (19^th - 23^rd Oct)
• Pumpkins After Dark: Wander through the illuminated tunnel as thousands of unique glowing lanterns light your path. There are many new pumpkin sculptures and installations this year, as well as live carving demonstrations and delicious treats. (runs until 30^th Oct)
• Ghost Tours: Get into the Halloween spirit by learning about some of the most haunted spots across the Toronto region with a plethora of guided tours and haunted walks.
• Michelin Dining: Experience Canada's first Michelin destination, with 13 newly starred restaurants with a myriad of different cuisines that are as diverse as the city itself.

  Montreal, known as the cultural capital of Quebec, will play host to a variety of festivals and events this autumn, highlighting its diverse food, film and music scene, including:  

• La Grande Dégustation: This tasting event is a unique gathering where wine producers, distillers and brewers come together to share their passion with wine, beer and spirit lovers and connoisseurs. (20^th-22^nd Oct)
• Bach Festival: Listen and learn through a series of concerts and educational programs at the Festival Bach Montréal, which showcases Canada’s elite musicians to the world and brings world-class performers to Quebec. (12^th Nov – 21^st Dec)
• Montreal Independent Film Festival: Enjoy this annual film festival which has become one of the most popular international festivals, hosting Cannes award winners, Oscar nominees and emerging independent film projects in previous years. (16^th Nov)
• MTLàTABLE: Experience a range of Montreal’s gourmet neighbourhoods in its 10^th annual restaurant week. (3^rd-13^th Nov)

  From both Montreal and Toronto, passengers can extend their holiday further by taking advantage of Air Transat’s network to connect to onward destinations including Québec City, Calgary and Vancouver as well as recently added US destinations, including Fort Lauderdale, Orlando and Miami. Passengers can land in one of their many gateways and leave from another city, at no extra charge. Air Transat gives the freedom to see more places, without being limited to just one destination!   Passengers travelling from the UK will fly on Air Transat’s modern, all-Airbus fleet. This includes the new A321neoLR aircraft which has the lowest environmental impact in its class, and forms part of the company’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. And with inflight meals, a welcoming atmosphere, state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment and more space in economy, their holiday starts the moment they step on board.   To book or for more information, please visit airtransat.co.uk or a travel agent.