PORT OF SPAIN – 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 had announced a suspension of its service to Trinidad and Tobago just three months after it had resumed flights to the Caribbean country.
“Air Canada has currently suspended service between Toronto and Port of Spain for 2023. At this point in time, we have no plans for the resumption of this route.,” the Montreal-based airline said then.
The four-times-weekly flights will on May 1, 2025 further enhancing connectivity and economy of travel between Canada and Trinidad and Tobago and providing travellers with greater access to destination.
Air Canada will operate a Boeing’s 737 Max 8 with 169 seats and Mitchell said “we met with Air Canada in several “Routes Americas” event, 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 both leisure, VFR, and business travellers to take advantage of this direct connection to discover all that our islands have to offer,” he added.
The government said this restored air link, since the pandemic, is a significant milestone for Trinidad and Tobago’s trade and tourism sectors, marking an important 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 have a positive impact on several key areas, including, tourism growth and increased visitors, easier travel for business and trade, and cultural exchange. (CMC)
