Photo: Left to right, front row: Özlem Salihoğlu, SVP, International Relations and Alliances, Turkish Airlines; Sebastian Ponce, Chief Revenue Officer, Transat. Back row: Levent Konukcu, Chief Investment and Technology Officer; Marc-Philippe Lumpé, Chief Operations Officer, Air Transat

Air Transat is expanding its international network with the launch of a new year-round non-stop service between Toronto and Istanbul.

Set to begin on Dec. 6, 2025, the route will operate twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

The airline has also announced a new interline partnership with Turkish Airlines, aimed at enhancing connectivity between Canada and Türkiye, while providing onward travel options across the Middle East, Asia and Africa. With the commencement of newly introduced direct flights, both airlines will be able to provide enhanced services for passengers through the collaboration.

The timing aligns with a growing interest in Türkiye as a destination for Canadian travellers, particularly since the visa requirement was lifted for Canadian passport holders in 2024. Istanbul continues to be a major draw thanks to its rich history, vibrant culture and dynamic tourism offerings.

The introduction of this route marks a strategic expansion of Air Transat’s Toronto operations. It also leverages the carrier’s existing joint venture with Porter Airlines, offering convenient connections from Western Canada, Ottawa, Montreal and the Martimes.

Ticket sales for the new service are expected to open in the next few days.

Source: Travelweek