Published on
November 14, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
Edmonton joins Victoria, Richmond, Thompson, Ottawa, Toronto, and London as Porter Airlines, Air Canada Express, and WestJet Encore unveil new flight connections to boost Canada’s domestic tourism this winter. As more Canadians opt to explore their own country, leaving the US behind, the Canadian tourism sector is witnessing a remarkable boom.
These new flights from Porter Airlines, Air Canada Express, and WestJet Encore are connecting key cities across the nation, making it easier than ever for Canadians to travel and explore. With winter travel on the rise, Canadians are ditching the US, leaving the American economy in sheer dust as they flock to domestic destinations.
As Edmonton, Victoria, and other cities benefit from these enhanced connections, Canada’s domestic tourism is thriving. The increase in flights from Porter Airlines, Air Canada Express, and WestJet is a game-changer, stimulating local economies and ensuring that Canada remains the top destination this winter. Read on to learn how these routes are revolutionizing Canadian travel!
| Indent | Carrier | Route From → To | Start Date / Notes | Tourism & Connectivity Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Porter Airlines | Hamilton (YHM) → Edmonton (YEG) | June 11 2025 launch. | Opens direct link between Southern Ontario and Alberta – easier for tourism/travel in both directions. |
| 2 | Porter Airlines | Hamilton (YHM) → Calgary (YYC) | June 11 2025 launch. | Connects Hamilton to a major western city, increasing tourism flows from Ontario to Alberta and vice versa. |
| 3 | Porter Airlines | Hamilton (YHM) → Vancouver (YVR) | June 3 (or June 28) 2025 launch. | Direct coast‑to‑coast connection, boosting domestic tourism between Ontario & BC. |
| 4 | WestJet (Encore) | Edmonton (YEG) → Kamloops / Prince George etc. | New domestic routes from Edmonton, e.g., Prince George route starts July 5 2025. (PG Airport) | Improves connectivity to more remote regions from Edmonton, supporting regional tourism growth. |
| 5 | Air Canada Express | Ottawa (YOW) → Fredericton (YFC) / Moncton (YQM) | From Dec 15 2025. (Air Canada) | Strengthens tourism links between Ontario’s capital region and New Brunswick’s urban centres. |
| 6 | Air Canada Express | Vancouver (YVR) → Fort McMurray (YMM) | From Dec 2 2025, 3× weekly. (Air Canada) | Adds another domestic link from Western hub to northern region; supports tourism & business travel. |
Regional Airlines Are Reshaping Domestic Tourism in Canada!
Canada is experiencing a revolution in domestic tourism, driven by a surge in regional airline routes connecting cities from coast to coast. Regional airlines are the unsung heroes behind this dramatic growth, bringing together cities like Edmonton, Victoria, Ottawa, Toronto, Hamilton, Thompson, and Richmond in ways that were once unimaginable. Whether you’re looking for a spontaneous getaway to the bustling streets of Toronto or a tranquil retreat in the picturesque town of Victoria, regional flights are now making it easier than ever to explore Canada. These airlines are providing direct connections that are transforming the landscape of domestic tourism, with direct routes designed to bring people together, spark local economies, and make Canadian cities more accessible than ever. Get ready to explore how regional airlines are unlocking the true potential of Canada’s tourism sector.
Edmonton: A Gateway to Western Canada with Unmatched Connectivity
Edmonton, the capital city of Alberta, has long been a key player in Canada’s tourism landscape, but now it’s becoming even more important thanks to its growing network of regional airlines. With airlines like WestJet Encore and Air Canada Express, Edmonton is now directly connected to key Canadian cities such as Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver, making it a top choice for domestic tourists. These airline connections are vital for growing tourism in Edmonton and Alberta as a whole, providing visitors from across the country with seamless access to the city’s world-class attractions like the West Edmonton Mall, Elk Island National Park, and the Royal Alberta Museum. Direct flights to Edmonton from major hubs are making it quicker and easier for people to explore this vibrant, diverse city. Regional flights are now the perfect solution for travellers wanting to enjoy both the urban appeal of Edmonton and the stunning natural beauty of Alberta.
Victoria: A Coastal Paradise Made Accessible by Regional Airlines
Victoria, located on Vancouver Island, is one of Canada’s most scenic and historic cities, drawing tourists from across the globe. But now, thanks to new regional airline routes, the city is more accessible than ever to domestic travellers. Porter Airlines and Air Canada Express have recently expanded their services between Toronto, Ottawa, and Victoria, opening up exciting new possibilities for tourism. As one of the oldest cities in Canada, Victoria is renowned for its charming architecture, world-class gardens, and rich history, making it an essential stop for anyone looking to experience the heart of British Columbia. The new regional routes are not only offering faster connections but also boosting tourism by giving people the ability to visit Victoria for short weekend breaks, without the hassle of connecting flights. Regional airline growth is making Victoria the go-to destination for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure on the beautiful Vancouver Island.
Ottawa: The Capital of Canada is Now More Connected Than Ever!
As the nation’s capital, Ottawa holds a unique place in Canadian tourism, offering iconic attractions like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the National Gallery of Canada. Thanks to regional airlines such as Porter Airlines and Air Canada Express, Ottawa is now even better connected to major cities across the country, including Toronto, Hamilton, and Edmonton. These new direct flight routes are unlocking Ottawa’s tourism potential, making it easier than ever for visitors to experience all the wonders the city has to offer. Whether you’re here for a cultural experience, a history lesson, or just to enjoy the stunning scenery, Ottawa is now more accessible than ever before. The expansion of regional airline routes is revolutionising how people can travel to Ottawa, allowing both local and international visitors to experience Canada’s political and cultural heart in a way that was once out of reach.
Toronto: Canada’s Tourism Hub Gets Even More Connected!
As the largest city in Canada, Toronto is the beating heart of the nation’s tourism industry. With attractions like the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, and Toronto Islands, the city has long been a top destination for tourists from around the world. But now, thanks to regional airlines, getting to Toronto has never been easier. New direct flights from Edmonton, Ottawa, Victoria, and Hamilton are transforming how people experience the city, making it possible for tourists to enjoy all that Toronto has to offer with minimal travel time. Whether you’re here for a business trip or a cultural exploration, regional flights are playing a pivotal role in ensuring that Toronto remains Canada’s most accessible and vibrant tourism hub. The expansion of these routes is set to further fuel Toronto’s position as a dominant tourism destination in Canada, bringing in more visitors and encouraging domestic tourism like never before.
Hamilton: Ontario’s Hidden Gem Now Connected to the World!
Hamilton, once considered just a manufacturing hub, is rapidly emerging as one of Ontario’s top tourist destinations, thanks in large part to its newly enhanced regional airline connections. With direct flights from Toronto, Ottawa, and Edmonton, Hamilton is now positioned to take advantage of the growing domestic tourism boom. Hamilton’s blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty makes it an appealing destination for a wide range of tourists. From the stunning Royal Botanical Gardens to the iconic Waterfalls of Hamilton, there’s something for every type of traveller. Regional airlines are unlocking Hamilton’s true tourism potential, providing an easy gateway for domestic travellers looking to explore more of Ontario’s hidden gems. By connecting Hamilton to major Canadian cities, these flights are creating a new wave of tourism, bringing in both short-term visitors and long-term economic benefits.
Richmond: Vancouver’s Gateway to Regional Travel
Located just outside Vancouver, Richmond is known for its diverse culture, shopping, and proximity to one of Canada’s largest urban centres. As Vancouver’s international airport hub, Richmond already attracts millions of international visitors each year, but regional airlines are now making it easier for domestic travellers to reach the city from other parts of Canada. With expanded routes from Edmonton, Toronto, and Ottawa, Richmond is now better connected than ever before. This growth in regional airline connectivity is not only enhancing tourism in Richmond but also supporting the overall growth of the Greater Vancouver area. With Richmond’s growing tourism infrastructure, the city is becoming a more viable and attractive option for domestic tourists seeking a blend of urban and cultural experiences just outside of Vancouver. The rise of regional flights is opening up exciting new opportunities for both tourists and the local economy.
Thompson: Manitoba’s Hidden Jewel Ready to Shine
For years, Thompson in Manitoba was overlooked by most domestic tourists due to its remote location. However, regional airline routes are now opening up Thompson to a wider audience. The addition of more frequent flights from Edmonton and Winnipeg is transforming Thompson into a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventurers. Surrounded by beautiful wilderness, Thompson offers world-class outdoor experiences, including wildlife tours, fishing expeditions, and access to the Wapusk National Park. As regional airlines boost their operations into Thompson, more tourists will have access to this undiscovered gem, driving economic growth and tourism in the region. The new routes are part of an overall trend to make smaller, lesser-known Canadian destinations more accessible, allowing domestic travellers to explore even the most remote corners of the country.
Porter Airlines, Air Canada Express, and WestJet Encore Are Fueling a Domestic Tourism Boom Across Canada
The rise of regional airlines in Canada Porter Airlines, Air Canada Express, and WestJet is reshaping the tourism landscape, making it easier than ever for Canadians to explore their own country. Cities like Edmonton, Victoria, Ottawa, Toronto, Hamilton, Thompson, and Richmond are benefiting from more direct connections, leading to a boost in domestic tourism. These regional flights are providing more flexibility, reducing travel time, and opening up new destinations for people to explore. Whether you’re seeking an urban escape in Toronto, a cultural adventure in Ottawa, or a natural getaway in Thompson, regional airlines are the key to unlocking the full potential of Canada’s tourism sector. The expansion of regional routes is set to continue driving growth and opportunity for both tourists and the local economies, ensuring that Canada remains one of the most accessible and exciting travel destinations in the world.
