MONTREAL, Oct. 8, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Transat, named the 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by Skytrax, unveils a series of major additions to its summer 2026 network. Central to these new developments are exclusive transatlantic routes such as Quebec City–Marseille and Ottawa–London Gatwick, as well as the annualization of several southern routes from Montreal, Quebec City and Toronto.

These expansions are part of Air Transat’s strategy to develop its presence in Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean, while providing travellers with greater flexibility and an even wider range of options.

“Our summer 2026 is already shaping up to be exceptional,” said Sebastian Ponce, Chief Revenue Officer at Transat. “We’re accelerating our growth in Quebec City, launching our first transatlantic route from Ottawa, and expanding our international connections. This is just the beginning of a season full of exciting new developments.”

New routes from Quebec City

From May 21 to October 8, 2026, Air Transat will operate a weekly non-stop service between Quebec City and Marseille on Thursdays. This new, exclusive route offers a unique gateway to the south of France and is a complement to the popularity of the existing Quebec City–Paris route. Additionally, the new Quebec City–Fort-de-France service, which is set to launch on December 14, 2025, will be extended over the summer to include a weekly Monday flight, providing year-round access to Martinique.

New routes from Ottawa

For the first time, Air Transat will offer non-stop transatlantic flights from Ottawa to London-Gatwick, starting on 15 May 2026. This service will operate three times a week on Fridays, Sundays and Tuesdays. In addition, a new Ottawa–Montreal route will be available from May 5 to October 23, 2026, making it even easier for travellers from the Canadian capital to access the full Air Transat network. This development is driven by the growing network of Air Transat’s partner, Porter Airlines, which is consolidating Ottawa as a major hub in eastern Canada. Together, the two airlines are improving international access to the Canadian capital while providing travellers with a seamless and convenient connecting journey.

Year-round South routes from Montreal and Toronto

Beginning summer 2026, Air Transat will convert several popular seasonal routes to year-round:

*New route

Notably, the Montreal–Cartagena (YUL–CTG) route will now operate year-round and be extended to Medellín (MDE). This service is based on the model of the future Toronto–Cartagena–Medellín route, which is set to launch on November 2 and will also operate year-round. Together, these routes offer travellers the chance to enjoy both the sunny beaches of the Caribbean coast as well as the cultural and urban vibrancy of Medellín.

The mentioned flights are now available for booking. Further developments will be announced in the coming weeks as part of the 2026 summer program rollout.

The campaign highlights Malaysia Airlines’ premium Business Class experience while also rewarding Economy Class travellers with exceptional comfort and value across international routes

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Oct. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Continuing its globally recognised “Time For” campaign, Malaysia Airlines is proud to introduce Time for Comfort in the Skies, inviting travellers to rediscover the joy of premium flying at 30,000 feet. Designed to highlight the airline’s hallmark Malaysian Hospitality, the campaign brings together comfort, exclusivity, and value across both Business and Economy Class.

The campaign runs from 7 – 22 October. travellers can enjoy up to 20% off Business Class fares on international routes for immediate travel until 31 August 2026. Members of the airline’s Enrich loyalty programme will enjoy priority access on the 7^th and 8^th October with an additional 5% discount as well as special redemption discount. Non-members are encouraged to sign up for free to unlock more exclusive perks. Available for a wide selection of destinations across Malaysia Airlines’ global network, these special fares give travellers more reasons to take to the skies — whether it’s a leisure escape to London or Brisbane, a cultural journey to Dhaka or Hong Kong, or a quick retreat within Malaysia to Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Miri, Tawau, or Penang.

Business Class: Elevated Comfort

As part of this journey, Business Class passengers can enjoy comfort and premium amenities across Malaysia Airlines’ fleet, including aboard its latest A330neo aircraft. Beyond the skies, guests benefit from priority services, access to the Golden Lounge and partner lounges worldwide. Onboard, thoughtful touches from the MH Signature Drink on arrival to gourmet dining with Chef-on-Call elevate the premium experience. Passengers can also stay connected with complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi via MHconnect, available on selected aircraft for all guests, regardless of cabin class or loyalty tier.

Economy Class: Comfort with Value

Economy Class travellers can look forward to the warmth of Malaysian Hospitality in every detail of their journey. Guests have the option to pre-book meals for a more seamless and personalised experience, while those who choose to order onboard can indulge in the airline’s celebrated Best of Asia menu, which brings authentic regional flavours to the skies. From hearty favourites to lighter choices for little explorers, every dish is thoughtfully prepared to make dining part of the journey itself. Onboard, travellers can stay entertained with a wide selection of movies, shows, and games, while enjoying the convenience of complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi via MHconnect.

A Stress-Free Journey for Families

Travelling with little ones can often be daunting, but Malaysia Airlines is set on making it a seamless experience through its MH Junior Explorer programme, created to keep little travellers happy and parents at ease. Young flyers receive curated Kids’ Activity Packs, filled with engaging items that turn the flight into an adventure from the moment they board. Mealtimes become a highlight too, with fun and nutritious Junior Explorer meals crafted to delight young taste buds. Parents are encouraged to pre-order these meals to ensure their children don’t miss out. Onboard entertainment also caters to kids, with a wide selection of age-appropriate shows, movies, and games to keep them engaged from take-off to landing.

With these thoughtful touches, Malaysia Airlines transforms every journey into an elevated experience for families, leisure seekers, and premium explorers. More than just travelling from point A to B, each flight becomes a shared journey of discovery, comfort, and joy in the skies.

Bonus Side Trip Expands to Eight Destinations – Discover Kuching!

Malaysia Airlines invites global travellers to discover Kuching, Sarawak, the latest destination in its Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme. In partnership with the Sarawak Tourism Board, the addition of Kuching opens the gateway to Borneo’s lush rainforests, diverse wildlife and vibrant living culture – offering long-haul passengers the chance to enrich their journey with an authentic side trip. As the world looks ahead to Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), Malaysia Airlines encourages guests to make every trip more rewarding by adding a Bonus Side Trip and uncovering Malaysia’s hidden gems along the way.

Travellers can book their flights via the official Malaysia Airlines website at www.malaysiaairlines.com or the mobile app or through authorised travel agents worldwide.

At the beginning of October 2025, the Latvian airline airBaltic marks the 30th anniversary of the route between its home base in Riga, Latvia, and Helsinki, Finland. This was the airline’s second-ever direct service, following the first commercial flight from Riga to Stockholm, Sweden, on October 1, 1995.

Mantas Vrubliauskas, VP Network Management at airBaltic: “Over the past three decades, our flights between both capitals have strengthened ties between Latvia and Finland for both business and leisure travel, contributing to the growth of both economies. Finland is one of our largest markets, and we aim to continue expanding in the country while providing reliable connectivity. We would like to express our gratitude to our long-term partner Finavia for their cooperation over the years and for supporting airBaltic’s growth.”

Petri Vuori, Senior Vice President responsible for route development at Finavia: “The route from Riga to Helsinki Airport is airBaltic’s historic first route in Finland. airBaltic is an important partner for us, and we are delighted that the airline’s route network and presence at Finavia airports have strengthened since then. In March, we will once again celebrate a new route as airBaltic launches a connection from Riga to Oulu Airport.”

airBaltic operates up to four daily flights between Riga and Helsinki at convenient times, offering passengers flexible options for travel between the two cities or for seamless connections via Latvian capital to over 80 destinations in the airline’s network.Since the first flight on this route in October 1995, airBaltic has carried more than three million passengers and operated over 62 thousand flights between the two cities.

Today, airBaltic flies to four destinations in Finland – Helsinki, Tampere, Turku, and Kittilä – and, starting March 29, 2026, the airline will introduce a direct service between Riga and Oulu. This extensive network provides strong connectivity between Latvia and Finland and, with a single stop in Riga, the largest hub in the Baltics, connects Finland to airBaltic’s wide network across Europe and beyond.

Over the past 30 years, airBaltic has evolved into a globally respected carrier. Now the airline is connecting the Baltic States to 80 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and the Caucasus region, providing essential infrastructure and global connectivity for the region. A complete schedule of airBaltic flights and tickets are available on the company’s homepage at www.airbaltic.com.

NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — JFK Millennium Partners (JMP), the company selected by the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey to build and operate John F. Kennedy International Airport’s new world-class Terminal 6 (T6), and Icelandair, the leading carrier of Iceland, today announced that Icelandair has selected T6 for its future operations at JFK. Icelandair joins partner airline JetBlue, Air Canada, Aer Lingus, ANA, Avianca, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Condor, Frontier, Kuwait Airways, Lufthansa, Norse, and SWISS as the 15^th international airline that will make T6 its new home at JFK when the terminal opens to passengers in 2026.

Icelandair becomes the 15th airline to operate from the new JFK T6

Terminal 6 is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of JFK International Airport into a world-class gateway, with two new terminals, two expanded and modernized terminals, a new ground transportation center, and an entirely new, simplified roadway network.

Icelandair passengers can look forward to T6’s digital-first, boutique guest experience, with a less than 5-minute average walk from the TSA security checkpoint exit to all gates, and seamless connectivity to Icelandair’s partner, JetBlue. Additional features include 100,000 square feet of NYC-inspired shopping, dining, lounges and amenities, curated public art, sustainable operating features, and a premium guest experience throughout the terminal.

Icelandair currently operates up to twice-daily service to Reykjavik, Iceland, on aircraft with a two-cabin configuration. Thanks to the airline’s strategic partnership with JetBlue, passengers traveling on both airlines can take advantage of quick connections between the new T6 and JetBlue’s Terminal 5, which will be connected when the terminal opens.

“Icelandair has been an outstanding long-term partner at T7, and we’re excited to write our next chapter together at the new T6,” said Steve Thody, CEO, JFK Millennium Partners. “As a leading international airline, Icelandair shares our commitment to sustainability and creating a memorable guest experience, and we can’t wait to open our doors to their passengers on our first day of operations.” 

About JFK Terminal 6

Currently under construction at John F. Kennedy International Airport, Terminal 6 is being developed in two phases, with the first six gates opening in 2026 and construction completion expected by 2028. Terminal 6 features include:

• 10 gates, of which nine will accommodate widebody aircraft
• State-of-the-art automated baggage system, customs/border control facilities, and the latest TSA screening technologies
• One of the longest departures curbs at JFK, with airline-branded passenger drop-off zones
• Multiple airline lounges, in addition to a new arrivals lounge
• A new ground transportation center
• A curated collection of New York City-inspired artwork featuring local and international artists, curated by the Public Art Fund in partnership with JMP and the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey
• Sustainably-sourced building materials, rooftop solar power, and energy efficient systems and operating practices throughout the terminal
• Sustainability certifications for LEED (silver or gold), Envision and SITES underway

About JFK Millennium Partners 
Terminal 6 is an award-winning public-private partnership between the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey and JFK Millennium Partners – a consortium that is led by Vantage Group, an industry leading investor, developer and manager of award-winning global airport projects, including LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal B; American Triple I, a certified minority-owned investor, owner, developer and manager of infrastructure assets; RXR, an innovative New York real estate investor and developer; and JetBlue Airways, New York’s hometown airline. When complete, Terminal 6 will connect seamlessly with Terminal 5 to create an anchor terminal on JFK International Airport’s north side. For more information, visit: https://www.portauthoritybuilds.com/redevelopment/us/en/jfk/planned-projects/terminal-6.html

About Icelandair
With an extensive route network, Icelandair uses the unique geographical location of Iceland as a hub midway between Europe and North America, offering direct flights to around 60 destinations. Additional to the international route network, Icelandair operates a domestic network in Iceland, an airfreight and logistics business as well as aircraft leasing and consulting services.

Since its foundation in 1937, Icelandair has steadily expanded its route network and, in 2024, transported 4.7 million passengers to 55 destinations in Europe and North America and employed around 3,600 full-time employees. Icelandair is a publicly traded company, listed on Nasdaq Iceland.

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia, Oct. 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On 9 September, Phnom Penh celebrated a historic milestone with the inauguration of Techo International Airport (IATA: KTI; ICAO: VDTI), the nation’s largest aviation infrastructure project. Cambodian funded and built, with a design inspired by the nation’s cultural and Angkorian heritage, the airport begins operations as a modernised hub for business and tourism. The launch was marked by the arrival of the first commercial flight operated by Air Cambodia, welcomed with a traditional water salute.

Within its first month of operations, the airport has opened two new routes and supported Cathay Pacific by temporarily hosting some of its fleet during Typhoon Ragasa.

Developed by Cambodia Airport Investment Co., Ltd. (CAIC) — a joint venture between the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA) and Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC), a leading Cambodian conglomerate — Techo International Airport underscores the country’s growing role in regional connectivity. With capacity for 15 million passengers annually in its first phase, the airport will strengthen tourism, expand trade flows, and enhance Cambodia’s international connectivity.

The project was Cambodian built in collaboration with a consortium of local and international contractors and engaged more than 200 Cambodian engineers and 17,000 workers — highlighting the nation’s ability to deliver world-class projects by combining homegrown expertise with global partnerships.

The terminal, designed by British firm Foster + Partners, reflects Angkorian traditions through sweeping roof canopies supported by structural “trees” inspired by the rumduol — Cambodia’s national flower. Natural light, tropical landscaping, and a nine-meter Buddha statue in the Abhayamudra pose together create a distinctive sense of place that celebrates Cambodian heritage while offering a modern gateway for future generations. The atmosphere combines a holistic and zen spirit, welcoming travellers with peace and balance from the very moment they arrive.

“Welcoming the first passengers at Techo International Airport is a defining moment,” said Pung Kheav Se, Chairman of OCIC and CAIC. “It creates new opportunities for Cambodia — for visitors, businesses, and investors — and marks the beginning of a new chapter for our country.”

To ensure high-quality operations, CAIC has appointed partners including Vinci Airports, Lagardère Travel Retail, Newrest, and Singapore Airlines Engineering Company (SIAEC) to oversee airport management, retail, catering, and aircraft maintenance.

Techo International Airport also features a high-quality retail and dining offering. Among the shops and restaurants are Malis, Paul, Starbucks, Brown Coffee, Bodia, and Artisans d’Angkor — blending Cambodian heritage with global hospitality.

The inauguration also coincides with the 25th anniversary of OCIC. The group, with presence in Cambodia, Laos, and Hong Kong, has over the past two decades contributed to Cambodia’s economic transformation across real estate, infrastructure, healthcare, and education—delivering more than 10,000 homes as well as major roads, bridges, and flyovers.

Techo International Airport now stands as both an emblem of Cambodia’s identity and a gateway to the future, ready to welcome the world as the capital strengthens its position in global air networks.

HOUSTON, Oct. 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Avelo Airlines announces the launch of Avelo PLUS, a brand-new membership program designed to make traveling even more affordable and convenient. Travelers can join for just $49 for the first year* and enjoy exclusive perks all year long.

With Avelo PLUS, members will gain access to:

• Exclusive Low Fares – Enjoy member-only pricing on flights.
• FREE Priority Boarding – Board early and settle in faster.
• Special Deals – Access member-only promotions and discounts all year.
• $50 Avelo Cash Bonus at Renewal – Earn rewards for loyalty every year.
• Benefits for You & up to Nine Others – Share your perks with your entire crew.

Avelo Airlines Founder and CEO Andrew Levy said, “Avelo’s new membership program, Avelo PLUS, gives our Customers even more opportunities to save and experience great Avelo perks. Our Customers have been asking for a program for loyal Customers, and we’re excited to offer Avelo PLUS and expand on our already affordable, convenient and reliable air service by providing even more value for travelers.”

This new program brings unmatched value to Avelo Customers, helping save money while enjoying a more seamless travel experience. Learn more about Avelo PLUS at AveloAir.com.

This news comes just weeks after Avelo announced its partnership with Embraer to bring the best-in-class E195-E2 airplane to the United States marketplace. Avelo Customers will love the E2’s comfortable 2×2 seating, in-seat power ports, large overhead bins, and quiet cabin.

America’s Most Reliable and Convenient Airline
Since taking flight on April 28, 2021, Avelo has flown more than eight million Customers on over 64,000 flights. Today Avelo serves 47 cities spanning 18 states and Puerto Rico, as well as three international destinations: Jamaica, Mexico and the Dominican Republic.

Avelo has unlocked a new era of convenience, choice, and competition by flying to primarily underserved communities across the country. Most Avelo routes include at least one small, convenient airport. This makes traveling with Avelo a smoother, easier and more enjoyable experience than contending with the crowds, congestion and long walks at larger airports.

Avelo is distinguished by its industry-leading reliability. In 2024, Avelo ranked #1 in on-time performance and achieved the lowest flight cancellation rate in the U.S. airline industry. These results are provided by Anuvu, a leading aviation data services company also utilized by The Wall Street Journal for the publication’s annual airline ranking. Anuvu’s complete industry results and rankings are available at AveloAir.com.

Avelo also delivers world-class customer satisfaction, exemplified by our Net Promoter Scores (NPS), which consistently rank among the best airlines and most admired brands in the world.

Avelo offers a range of seating options. These include Standard, Stretch, and Stretch+ seating. Stretch provides extra legroom, with pitch ranging from 32 inches to over 36 inches. Stretch+ features a unique upgrade where the middle seat is blocked for added comfort and space. Customers can also purchase window and aisle seats in advance of their flight. In addition to advance seat assignments, Avelo offers several unbundled travel-enhancing options that give Customers the flexibility to pay only for what they value, including priority boarding, checked bags, carry-on overhead bags, and a pet in the cabin.

Additionally, families can travel with ease knowing every child 14 and under will be automatically seated with an accompanying adult at no additional cost. 

DALLAS, Oct. 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) is keeping the sun up all night on its network expansion party with the intention to begin service at Anchorage, Alaska’s Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport in the first half of 2026. Southwest Airlines^® is scheduled to make flights available for purchase as part of its next schedule extension coming this month.

“We’re adding destinations that once seemed inconceivable for Southwest in order to build a route network that creates new experiences and more possibilities than ever before,” said Andrew Watterson, Chief Operating Officer at Southwest Airlines. “We look forward to connecting our Customers to the rich history and culture of Anchorage and connecting the 49th state to our vast domestic network.”

Anchorage marks the fifth new destination Southwest^® has announced thus far in 2025 and will expand its network to 122 airports¹ when service launches next year. Already the airline flying more Customers nonstop within the United States², Alaska will become the 43rd state in Southwest’s domestic network.

“Air travel is a lifeline in Alaska, and Southwest’s arrival in Anchorage is a major win for our communities,” said Ryan Anderson, Commissioner of the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities. “This service will provide more affordable, reliable connections for Alaskans and help share our great state with more visitors than ever before.”

“This will be a big economic boost for Anchorage and all of southcentral Alaska,” said Suzanne LaFrance, Mayor of Anchorage. “We are excited to share our rich cultural heritage, magnificent landscapes, and diverse community with a larger group of travelers.”

Accompanying its recent new destination announcements, Southwest is redesigning its cabin experience to meet the needs of the modern traveler. Enhancements include selling assigned and premium seating for flights, launching free Wi-Fi for all Rapid Rewards^®  Members, thanks to T-Mobile^®, and adding in-seat power to all of its Boeing 737-8 aircraft as the airline works toward in-seat power across its full fleet.

• St. Louis is the latest addition to British Airways’ route network, becoming the airline’s 27th US destination and only direct UK link to the city
• The inaugural flight will operate in April 2026, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of Route 66, which runs through the city
• The flag carrier will operate a four-weekly service from London Heathrow to St. Louis, with return fares starting from £529
• This follows British Airways’ frequency boost for popular US destinations, including Miami, San Diego and Austin

British Airways is expanding its transatlantic network with the launch of a new direct service from London Heathrow to St. Louis, Missouri.

The new route makes British Airways the only UK airline to offer direct flights to St. Louis – a destination known for its history, culture and character. From its iconic Gateway Arch to its vibrant neighbourhoods, expansive green spaces and thriving food and music scenes, the city offers something for every customer.

Flights will begin on 19 April 2026 and operate four times per week throughout the summer season.

The launch coincides with the 100th anniversary of Route 66 – the legendary highway that begins in Chicago and winds through St. Louis on its way to Los Angeles. The city’s stretch of the “Mother Road” is packed with Americana charm, from vintage diners and neon signs to historic motels and roadside attractions, offering the perfect starting point for travellers seeking a classic US road trip experience.

Beyond its Route 66 heritage, St. Louis is home to Forest Park – one of the largest urban parks in the US –, a range of free museums and a thriving craft beer scene, making it an ideal destination for both short breaks and longer adventures. The city also boasts a proud sporting legacy, with teams including the St. Louis Cardinals (Major League Baseball), Blues (National Hockey League) and City Soccer Club (Major League Soccer), earning the title of “Ultimate Sports City” by ESPN The Magazine.

Customers have a choice of three cabins – World Traveller (economy), World Traveller Plus (premium economy) and Club World (business class) – with return fares from £529, on sale today.

Customers in Club World will be able to experience the airline’s latest business class seat, Club Suite, on selected flights, offering personal space with direct aisle access, a full flat bed and a 17” high-resolution screen for entertainment. The cabin also features a brasserie-style dining experience, with a choice of freshly prepared starters, mains, desserts and cheeses.

Neil Chernoff, British Airways’ Chief Planning and Strategy Officer, said: “St. Louis is a fantastic addition to our US network – it’s a destination in itself as a city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene, as well as a gateway to exciting destinations beyond this. As the only direct route from the UK, this service will open up exciting new opportunities for our customers and further strengthen ties between the UK and the US Midwest.”

St. Louis becomes the airline’s 27th US destination, with British Airways flying to more cities across the country than any other UK airline. With this new route, customers have access to one of the world’s most extensive global networks. The service will also benefit from the Atlantic Joint Business partnership with American Airlines, Iberia, Finnair, Aer Lingus and LEVEL, offering seamless connections and competitive fares across Europe and North America.

The launch of St. Louis flights follows British Airways’ recent frequency increases to popular US destinations. From Summer 2026, the airline will reintroduce its double-daily service to Miami and daily flights to Dallas-Fort Worth, increase flights to Las Vegas from 10 to 13 per week, and fly to both San Diego and Austin 14 times per week. New York (JFK) will operate exclusively from London Heathrow, with nine daily flights, including a new service operated by the airline’s 777-200 fleet, featuring First and Club Suite – offering a more premium experience for every customer travelling on its flagship route.

St. Louis Fly-Drive – British Airways Holidays offers seven days car hire plus return flights (World Traveller) from London Heathrow Airport, from £799pp, travelling on selected dates between April – May 2026 inclusive. Includes one checked bag per person. Book by 15 October 2025. For reservations, visit ba.com

• Canadian Favourites Onboard – Complimentary MadeGood Mornings Cinnamon Bun Soft Baked Oat Bars and Greenhouse Ginger Defence Wellness Shots join our onboard offering 
• Air Canada is the only North American airline serving non-alcoholic beer inflight, with Heineken 0.0 now complimentary on all flights 
• Free Beer & Wine, Everywhere – Complimentary beer and wine are now standard on every Air Canada flight, including routes to Mexico and the Caribbean 

MONTRÉAL, Oct. 1, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Canada continues to raise the bar on the Economy travel experience with complimentary beer, wine, and exclusive Canadian-made snacks now available for all customers on all flights, including routes to Mexico and the Caribbean*.

Launched on September 1, these upgrades reflect the airline’s commitment to delivering award-winning service for all customers, and a sharpened focus on leisure travellers as recognized by Skytrax. 

“As part of our commitment to elevating the onboard experience, we’re delighted to introduce even more exciting new options to our menus,” said Scott O’Leary, Vice President, Loyalty & Product at Air Canada. “These upgrades offer something for everyone and proudly showcase Canadian brands so that our customers can sit back, relax and kick-start their travels no matter where they’re going.” 

New Sips and Snacks to Savour 

• Morning flights (before 10 a.m.): A favourite in homes across Canada, MadeGood Mornings Cinnamon Bun Soft Baked Oat Bars join the line-up of complimentary snacks onboard, alongside Canadian favourites TWIGZ Craft Pretzels and Leclerc’s Celebration Cookies. 
• Toronto-Downtown Billy Bishop flights (after 10:30 a.m.): From Canadian brand Greenhouse, known for its organic and plant-based products, complimentary Greenhouse Ginger Defence Wellness Shots will provide an energizing kick to our offerings. These shots are also featured in Air Canada’s premium snack baskets and Bistro menu.
• Expanded Air Canada Bistro – Now featuring more Canadian-made choices, from Summer Fresh Hummus & Crackers and Quaker Maple & Brown Sugar Oatmeal Cups to bold new TWIGZ Sour Cream & Onion Pretzels and fan-favourite Smarties. 
• Crisp New Pour – With Heineken 0.0, Air Canada becomes the only North American airline to serve a non-alcoholic beer inflight, complementing its system-wide free beer and wine offering. 

The airline continues to set new benchmarks for comfort and convenience in travel with its best-in-class product and service offerings. In addition to rolling upgrades to its food and beverage offering, Air Canada has introduced a revamped mobile app, expanded in-flight entertainment, refreshed and newly refurbished and opened lounges, efficient airport processes, the best-in-class Aeroplan loyalty program, and seamless intermodal travel options all on one ticket. Further, fast, free Wi-Fi, sponsored by Bell, is available for Aeroplan Members on flights across North America and to-and-from Sun destinations, in Mexico and the Caribbean. 

*Valid on flights with beverage service operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, and Air Canada Express flights operated by Jazz. Subject to availability. For full details, visit aircanada.com/bonappetit. Alcohol will be served only to persons who have reached the legal age of majority and in a responsible manner. 

Electra’s rapid growth and top engineering talent drive production of the EL9 forward  

MANASSAS, Va. and BLEIENBACH, Switzerland, Sept. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Electra.aero, Inc. (“Electra”) today announced the expansion of its facilities in Manassas, Virginia, and Bleienbach, Switzerland, to support the company’s rapid growth and the development of its nine-passenger hybrid-electric EL9 Ultra Short aircraft.

Electra’s hybrid-electric EL9 Ultra Short is designed to take off and land in spaces as short as 150 feet.

“Electra is on a mission to transform aviation, and expanding our facilities ensures we can continue attracting the world-class engineering talent to design, develop, and commercialize our groundbreaking EL9,” said Marc Allen, CEO of Electra.  “We’re giving our teams the resources they need to get our Ultra Short aircraft into the hands of our customers and deliver on the promise of Direct Aviation, making regional air travel more convenient, affordable, and sustainable.”

At its headquarters at Manassas Regional Airport in Virginia, Electra has opened a new 15,000-square-foot hangar and 6,000-square-foot office space. The expanded facility will house development and engineering teams. This addition complements Electra’s existing 36,000-square-foot headquarters facility in Manassas. Electra has more than doubled the size of its workforce in 2025 and will add dozens more engineering team members in the coming year.

In Europe, Electra has also expanded its R&D center in Bleienbach, Switzerland, to nearly 2,000 square feet. The Swiss facility plays a key role in attracting top European talent and advancing the company’s global engineering and innovation efforts.

Electra’s EL9 is designed to take off and land in spaces as short as 150 feet, using a combination of hybrid-electric propulsion and blown-lift aerodynamics. This capability opens thousands of new access points ranging from small, underserved airports to non-traditional sites such as parking lots or fields, enabling a new era of Direct Aviation. By bypassing congested hubs, the EL9 will connect people and places more directly while cutting travel time, reducing noise, and lowering emissions.

Electra has been showcasing the real-world potential of its Ultra Short takeoff and landing capabilities through nearly two years of successful flight demonstrations of its two-seat EL2 prototype. This year, Electra flew commercial demonstrations from novel airstrips, austere environments, and campus settings at Virginia Tech (video); off-runway operating scenarios in partnership with the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Griffiss International Airport (towered) in Rome, NY, for AFRL’s Future Flag 25-3 test event; and commercial off-runway demonstrations at Watertown International Airport (untowered) in upstate New York (video). Together, these flights underscore the versatility of Electra’s platform for both commercial and defense customers.

Electra plans to begin flight testing the EL9 in 2027, to fly for FAA certification credit in 2028 and 2029, and to get the airplane certified and into service in late 2029, into 2030. To date, the company has secured more than 2,200 provisional orders from over 60 customers worldwide, representing a pipeline of more than $13 billion. To learn more about how Direct Aviation will transform air travel, watch the announcement video.