Canada Faces Travel Chaos As 117 Flights Were Delayed And 26 Flights Cancelled Including WestJet, Porter Airlines, SkyWest And Others Affecting Routes To Montreal, Toronto And More

Canada is currently facing significant travel disruptions, with 117 flight delays and 26 cancellations reported across several major airlines, including WestJet, Porter Airlines, and SkyWest. Passengers traveling through airports such as Montreal-Trudeau (YUL), Toronto Pearson Int’l (YYZ), and other key hubs are experiencing ripple effects due to these disruptions. The high number of delays, coupled with the cancellations, is impacting both domestic and international flights, frustrating travelers heading to popular destinations within Canada and beyond. Airlines have been working to manage these disruptions, but travelers are advised to stay informed, monitor their flight statuses, and be prepared for potential delays or rebooking. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, understanding the current situation will help minimize the stress of unforeseen changes to your itinerary.

Montreal-Trudeau (YUL)

Montreal-Trudeau has been experiencing a significant number of disruptions, with 7 cancellations and 15 delays reported. This level of disruption may be frustrating for passengers looking to reach or depart from Montreal, a key hub in Canada’s air travel network. Travelers are advised to check flight statuses in advance and be prepared for longer wait times due to these delays.

Toronto Pearson Int’l (YYZ)

As Canada’s busiest airport, Toronto Pearson Int’l (YYZ) is facing its own set of challenges, with 9 cancellations and 39 delays. Toronto serves as a major international gateway, so delays here can cause ripple effects on connecting flights, making it a critical point to monitor for passengers flying to and from this airport.

Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier Int’l (YOW)

The nation’s capital is also dealing with disruptions, though at a somewhat lower scale. Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier Int’l has seen 2 cancellations and 3 delays. While the numbers are relatively smaller, even short delays can impact passengers trying to stay on schedule for connecting flights or important meetings in the city.

Vancouver Intl (YVR)

Vancouver Intl (YVR) reported 0 cancellations but 19 delays. Fortunately, the lack of cancellations is good news for travelers, but the delays are still significant, especially for passengers on international flights. Vancouver’s connections to Asia and other regions make it a pivotal airport, and any delays here can affect travelers planning to connect to long-haul flights.

Calgary Int’l (YYC)

Calgary Int’l (YYC) saw 3 cancellations and 19 delays. This combination of flight disruptions has the potential to impact travelers planning to reach Calgary for business or leisure. As a key airport in Western Canada, these disruptions may affect travelers planning to connect with flights across North America.

Quebec/Jean Lesage Int’l (YQB)

Quebec City’s airport is experiencing 2 cancellations and 2 delays. While the numbers are relatively low, travelers should still stay updated with any schedule changes as they prepare for flights out of this scenic city.

Edmonton Intl (YEG)

At Edmonton Intl (YEG), 1 cancellation and 11 delays have been reported. These disruptions may be inconvenient for travelers, especially those looking to make onward connections to major cities across Canada or the U.S.

Winnipeg Int’l (YWG)

Winnipeg’s airport has had 2 cancellations and 9 delays. These issues can affect business or personal travel plans, and travelers departing from or arriving at Winnipeg should be aware of potential disruptions.

Overview of Flight Disruptions at Canadian Airports: Cancellations and Delays

Flight disruptions at major airports across Canada are not uncommon, especially during busy travel seasons. Whether you are a frequent flyer or planning a one-time trip, being informed about airport conditions is essential for smoother travel experiences. Below, we break down the recent flight cancellations and delays at key Canadian airports, giving you an overview of the current travel situation so you can plan accordingly.

Flight Disruptions Summary Table

Airport	Cancellations	Delays	Key Travel Considerations
Montreal-Trudeau (YUL)	7	15	A key hub in Canada’s air network; delays may affect travelers heading to international destinations.
Toronto Pearson Int’l (YYZ)	9	39	As Canada’s busiest airport, disruptions here can cause widespread effects on both domestic and international connections.
Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier Int’l (YOW)	2	3	Relatively low disruptions, but delays can still affect important connections.
Vancouver Intl (YVR)	0	19	No cancellations, but delays at a major international hub could impact long-haul travelers.
Calgary Int’l (YYC)	3	19	A busy Western Canadian hub; delays and cancellations could affect business and leisure travelers alike.
Quebec/Jean Lesage Int’l (YQB)	2	2	A smaller airport with minimal disruptions, though travelers should still stay updated.
Edmonton Intl (YEG)	1	11	Minimal cancellations, but delays could affect connections to major cities across Canada or the U.S.
Winnipeg Int’l (YWG)	2	9	Travelers departing from Winnipeg should be aware of potential delays, especially for connecting flights.

As the data shows, flight disruptions, including both cancellations and delays, are being experienced at several Canadian airports, with Toronto Pearson Int’l (YYZ) and Montreal-Trudeau (YUL) having the most notable disruptions. Whether you’re flying internationally or connecting between cities, these disruptions may cause delays in your travel plans. For smooth travel, it’s essential to stay updated on flight statuses, prepare for potential delays, and allow extra time for connections.

Travelers should monitor their airline’s website or mobile app for real-time updates, especially when departing from major hubs like Toronto Pearson and Montreal-Trudeau. If you’re traveling to or from airports with fewer disruptions, such as Vancouver Intl (YVR) or Quebec/Jean Lesage Int’l (YQB), you’re less likely to experience cancellations, though delays can still occur.

Over 69 Flights Cancelled in Canada Leaving Passengers in Jeopardy as Toronto Pearson, Montreal-Trudeau, Calgary, Winnipeg, Halifax and Ottawa Airports in Travel Chaos: Check Whether Yours on the New List or Not

Some Affected Airlines Due To This Cancellation

WestJet Flight Disruptions: Cancellations and Delays Impacting Travelers

WestJet, one of Canada’s major airlines, is currently facing some operational challenges, with 5 flight cancellations and 2 delays reported. For travelers flying with WestJet, this may lead to disruptions in their travel plans, whether they’re heading to popular destinations within Canada or international locations.

Travel Impact:

• Cancellations: A total of 5 flights have been canceled, which may cause passengers to experience significant schedule changes. For those with upcoming WestJet flights, it’s crucial to check for any rebooking options as soon as possible.
• Delays: With 2 flights delayed, travelers should expect potential wait times before departure. While the number of delayed flights is lower, any delay can still affect connections and cause inconvenience for passengers.

Air Canada Flight Disruptions: Minimal Delays, No Cancellations

Air Canada, Canada’s flagship carrier, is experiencing relatively smooth operations with 0 cancellations and 2 delays reported. While delays are always an inconvenience, the absence of cancellations is good news for passengers traveling with Air Canada.

Travel Impact:

• Delays: With just 2 delays reported, passengers may experience some minor inconvenience, but overall, the number of delayed flights is relatively low. This indicates that Air Canada is handling its operations efficiently.
• No Cancellations: The absence of cancellations is a positive sign, ensuring that passengers can maintain their travel schedules without the added stress of needing to rebook flights.

Porter Airlines Flight Disruptions: No Cancellations, Minor Delays

Porter Airlines is operating smoothly with 0 cancellations and 3 delays reported. While delays can still affect travel plans, the lack of cancellations ensures that most passengers are able to proceed with their flights as scheduled.

Travel Impact:

• Delays: A total of 3 delays have been reported. Though delays can be inconvenient, the small number suggests that the overall operations of Porter Airlines remain relatively unaffected. Passengers can expect some wait time, but it should be manageable.
• No Cancellations: With no cancellations, there is less disruption in passengers’ travel schedules, meaning they won’t need to worry about rebooking or significant changes to their plans.

PAL Airlines Flight Disruptions: No Cancellations, Minor Delay

PAL Airlines is currently experiencing smooth operations with 0 cancellations and only 1 delayed flight reported. This minimal disruption ensures that most passengers can continue their travel plans with little to no inconvenience.

Travel Impact:

• Delay: With just 1 delay, passengers on this flight may experience a slight wait, but the overall disruption is minimal. This suggests that PAL Airlines is maintaining efficient operations for its flights.
• No Cancellations: The absence of cancellations is a significant positive, ensuring that passengers don’t face the hassle of rebooking or rescheduling their flights.

SkyWest Flight Disruptions: No Cancellations, Minor Delays

SkyWest Airlines is currently experiencing 0 cancellations and 4 delays. While delays can disrupt travel plans, the absence of cancellations ensures that most passengers will still be able to reach their destinations as scheduled, with only minor adjustments to their departure times.

Travel Impact:

• Delays: The 4 delays may affect passengers’ schedules, but given the relatively low number of disruptions, the impact should be manageable. Travelers should be prepared for slightly extended wait times at the airport.
• No Cancellations: With no cancellations reported, there are no major disruptions to travel plans, which means passengers can expect to be rebooked on their original flights without the added stress of rescheduling.

Jazz (ACA) Flight Disruptions: One Cancellation, No Delays

Jazz Aviation (operating under the Air Canada brand as ACA) is currently experiencing 1 cancellation and 0 delays. While the cancellation may affect some travelers, the lack of delays ensures that most flights are operating on time.

Travel Impact:

• Cancellation: The 1 cancellation may cause inconvenience for affected passengers, requiring rebooking or adjustments to their travel plans. It’s important to contact Jazz or your travel agent for alternatives or compensation options.
• No Delays: With no delays reported, most passengers can expect smooth, timely departures and arrivals.

Flight Disruptions Across Major Airlines: Cancellations and Delays Impacting Travelers

Air travel disruptions, including flight cancellations and delays, are common and can affect even the most seasoned travelers. Understanding where disruptions are occurring can help you stay informed and better plan your journey. Below is an overview of recent flight cancellations and delays reported by several major airlines, including WestJet, Air Canada, Porter Airlines, SkyWest, PAL Airlines, and Jazz (ACA). Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, this information can help minimize the impact of any travel hiccups.

WestJet: 5 Cancellations, 2 Delays

• Cancellations: 5 flights cancelled
• Delays: 2 flights delayed
• Travel Impact: WestJet passengers may experience significant schedule changes due to cancellations, while delays could lead to longer wait times.
• Travel Tips: Stay updated on rebooking options if your flight is cancelled. Check your flight status regularly to avoid surprises.

Air Canada: 0 Cancellations, 2 Delays

• Cancellations: 0 flights cancelled
• Delays: 2 flights delayed
• Travel Impact: With no cancellations, the impact of delays is minimal. However, travelers should be prepared for brief wait times.
• Travel Tips: Always check your flight status for the latest updates and allow extra time for any potential delays.

Porter Airlines: 0 Cancellations, 3 Delays

• Cancellations: 0 flights cancelled
• Delays: 3 flights delayed
• Travel Impact: While the delays are limited to 3 flights, they may cause some inconvenience. However, the lack of cancellations means most passengers can proceed with their travel plans.
• Travel Tips: Check Porter’s website or app for real-time updates and plan for minor delays.

SkyWest: 0 Cancellations, 4 Delays

• Cancellations: 0 flights cancelled
• Delays: 4 flights delayed
• Travel Impact: While the delays may be frustrating, no cancellations mean passengers can continue their journey with minimal disruption.
• Travel Tips: Stay updated on flight statuses to ensure you’re aware of any changes and adjust your schedule accordingly.

PAL Airlines: 0 Cancellations, 1 Delay

• Cancellations: 0 flights cancelled
• Delays: 1 flight delayed
• Travel Impact: A single delay affects one flight, making this a relatively smooth experience for most PAL Airlines passengers.
• Travel Tips: Monitor your flight status for any last-minute changes, as the delay is minimal.

Jazz (ACA): 1 Cancellation, 0 Delays

• Cancellations: 1 flight cancelled
• Delays: 0 flights delayed
• Travel Impact: The cancellation may impact a few passengers, but with no delays, most flights operate on time.
• Travel Tips: Reach out to Jazz or Air Canada immediately if you’re affected by the cancellation and inquire about rebooking.

While delays and cancellations are an unfortunate reality of air travel, staying informed about your flight status can make a world of difference. Monitoring real-time updates from your airline, arriving early, and being flexible with your plans can help minimize the inconvenience caused by these disruptions. Remember to always check for updates and consider alternative arrangements in the event of delays or cancellations.

Whether you’re flying with WestJet, Air Canada, Porter Airlines, SkyWest, PAL Airlines, or Jazz (ACA), understanding the current flight situation can help you navigate your travel experience more smoothly. Safe travels, and always be prepared for the unexpected!

Overall Summary: Flight Disruptions Across Major Airlines and Airports

Recent reports on flight cancellations and delays across various Canadian airlines and airports highlight the ongoing challenges faced by travelers. WestJet has experienced significant disruptions, with 5 cancellations and 2 delays. This can lead to considerable frustration for passengers, as cancellations often require rebooking and adjustments to travel plans. Air Canada, on the other hand, is operating relatively smoothly with 0 cancellations and only 2 delays, making it a more reliable option for those traveling across Canada and internationally. Similarly, Porter Airlines reported 3 delays and no cancellations, meaning that while there are some minor disruptions, most flights are operating as scheduled.

SkyWest also saw 4 delays but no cancellations, indicating that while there are some minor wait times, travelers are largely unaffected by major disruptions. PAL Airlines had 1 cancellation and 1 delay, presenting a relatively low impact on travelers, especially when compared to other carriers. Jazz (ACA) had 1 cancellation but no delays, affecting only a small number of passengers.

When looking at major airports, disruptions were noted at several key Canadian hubs. Montreal-Trudeau (YUL) experienced 7 cancellations and 15 delays, making it one of the more disrupted airports, while Toronto Pearson Int’l (YYZ) had 9 cancellations and 39 delays, affecting both domestic and international travelers. Smaller airports like Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier Int’l (YOW) and Quebec/Jean Lesage Int’l (YQB) saw fewer disruptions, with 2 cancellations and 2 delays each at YQB, and 2 cancellations and 3 delays at YOW. Notably, Vancouver Intl (YVR) had 0 cancellations but 19 delays, while Calgary Int’l (YYC) saw 3 cancellations and 19 delays, indicating a relatively smoother travel experience compared to larger hubs.

Overall, while cancellations and delays are an unfortunate part of air travel, passengers can manage disruptions by staying updated on flight statuses, preparing for potential delays, and being flexible with their travel plans. By monitoring real-time information from airlines and airports, travelers can minimize the inconvenience and continue their journeys with greater ease. Safe travels to all passengers navigating through these affected airports and airlines.

Travel Tips for Minimizing the Impact of Disruptions

• Check Flight Status Frequently: Before heading to the airport, verify the status of your flight. Many airlines offer real-time updates via their websites and mobile apps.
• Allow Extra Time for Connections: Particularly at airports with multiple delays, it’s wise to have extra time between connecting flights.
• Stay Informed with Alerts: Sign up for flight alerts to receive notifications about cancellations or delays that might affect your plans.
• Be Prepared for Longer Wait Times: Bring essential items like snacks, entertainment, and a charger to make any delays more manageable.

Travel Impact and Advice

The combination of cancellations and delays across these airports means that passengers flying to or from these Canadian hubs may face significant disruptions. The following tips can help travelers mitigate the impact:

1. Monitor Flight Status: Always check your flight status before heading to the airport. Many airlines and airports offer real-time updates through their websites or apps.
2. Prepare for Longer Wait Times: If you’re traveling from or to these airports, be prepared for delays. It’s always a good idea to bring extra snacks, entertainment, and patience.
3. Consider Connecting Flights: If you’re flying internationally, delays or cancellations at Canadian hubs may affect your connections. Plan extra time between flights to accommodate delays.
4. Stay in Touch with Airlines: If your flight is delayed or cancelled, reach out to your airline as soon as possible for rebooking or compensation options.

Conclusion

As 117 flights were delayed and 26 flights cancelled across WestJet, Porter Airlines, SkyWest, and others, Canadian travelers face an unpredictable travel landscape. Key airports like Montreal and Toronto are at the center of the disruptions, with significant delays affecting both domestic and international routes. While disruptions like these can be inconvenient, staying proactive by checking for updates and being flexible with travel plans can alleviate some of the stress. Airlines are working to resolve the situation, but passengers should be prepared for potential delays, long wait times, and cancellations. By staying informed, adjusting expectations, and maintaining patience, travelers can navigate these disruptions and continue their journeys with minimal inconvenience. If you’re flying in the coming days, ensure you check for updates from your airline and take necessary precautions.

Source:- FlightAware and Different Airports

The post Canada Faces Travel Chaos As 117 Flights Were Delayed And 26 Flights Cancelled Including WestJet, Porter Airlines, SkyWest And Others Affecting Routes To Montreal, Toronto And More appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Air Canada Surpasses WestJet, Sunwing, Air Transat, Porter, Flair and More Canadian Airlines in Leading the Race of Sky High Profits: New Update on How all Carriers are Plotting a Profit‑Packed Year

Air Canada has once again soared above all other Canadian carriers, outpacing WestJet, Sunwing, Air Transat, Porter, Flair, and more in the race for sky-high profits. With a financial performance that continues to outshine its competitors, Air Canada is not just leading—it’s setting a new standard in the Canadian aviation industry. But how exactly did Air Canada leave behind giants like WestJet, Sunwing, Air Transat, and Porter? The story doesn’t end there. Every airline is plotting its own profit-packed year, with new strategies, upgraded services, and aggressive growth plans.

WestJet, Sunwing, and others are not backing down, though. They are adjusting their routes, cutting costs, and exploring new partnerships to grab a larger piece of the pie. In fact, each airline, from Flair to Air Transat, is now aligning its strategies for what could be their most profitable year yet. But will they be able to catch up to Air Canada’s relentless momentum, or will they fall behind?

Travel and Tour World urges readers to stay with us for this crucial update on how Air Canada, WestJet, Sunwing, Air Transat, Porter, and more Canadian airlines are all plotting their next big moves in the race for massive profits.

SUrAir Canada Leads the Revenue Race

Air Canada, the flag carrier and the largest airline in Canada, continues to dominate the Canadian aviation market. According to the company’s 2025 Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A), Air Canada’s full‑year operating revenue reached C$22.372 billion in 2025, marking a modest 1% increase from 2024. While passenger revenue experienced a slight dip due to an August labor disruption, cargo and “other” revenue categories helped offset this decline. Operating expenses saw a rise of 2%, reaching C$21.454 billion, largely driven by higher wages and maintenance costs alongside the financial effects of the labor dispute.

Despite these challenges, Air Canada’s operating income stood at C$918 million, down from C$1.263 billion in 2024. The operating margin also saw a decrease, settling at 4.1%. However, the airline’s net income for 2025 was C$644 million, a significant drop from C$1.720 billion in 2024. This decline was largely due to the absence of a one‑time deferred tax asset that boosted the previous year’s income. Despite these setbacks, Air Canada maintained strong liquidity, entering 2026 with C$7.5 billion in liquidity, setting the stage for continued investment in fleet renewal and network expansion.

The company’s diversified revenue streams – notably its growing cargo business and loyalty program – played a crucial role in mitigating the impact of softer demand on Canada‑U.S. routes. However, challenges remain, as rising fuel costs and labor expenses have placed pressure on margins. Looking ahead, Air Canada is expected to focus on premium transatlantic markets and enhance reliability after resolving labor disputes.

Airline	Year	Revenue	Profit	Notes
Air Canada	2023	C$20.3 billion	C$1.72 billion	Affected by labor strikes, but still showed strong recovery.
	2024	C$21.3 billion	C$1.9 billion	Strong recovery after disruptions with cargo and premium service growth.
	2025	C$22.372 billion	C$644 million	Profit fell due to labor disruptions and inflationary pressure on fuel costs.
	2026	Expected higher with new network expansion	Expected increase	Focus on premium transatlantic markets.
WestJet	2023	Private data, estimated C$6.5 billion	Private, estimated C$400 million	Strong demand and high operational costs.
	2024	C$7 billion	Private estimate, approx. C$500 million	Continued strong demand, cost management, and efficiency.
	2025	C$7.3 billion	Private, estimated at C$600 million	Strong market position, but no public financials.
	2026	Expected stable with new growth from Sunwing integration	Expected stable	Focus on cost discipline.
Air Transat	2023	C$2.9 billion	C$100 million	Struggled with macroeconomic pressures and aircraft issues.
	2024	C$3.2 billion	C$120 million	Improved performance despite operational challenges.
	2025	C$3.398 billion	C$241.9 million	Strong turnaround with improved adjusted EBITDA, but negative free cash flow.
	2026	Expected growth with route expansion	Projected to grow	Financial discipline necessary.
Sunwing Airlines	2023	C$1.5 billion	C$50 million	Recovery post-pandemic with solid leisure demand.
	2024	C$1.7 billion	C$80 million	Continued recovery with increased leisure travel.
	2025	C$1.8 billion	C$90 million	Continued growth, but facing rising operating costs.
	2026	Expected steady growth, improved fleet capacity	Expected continued growth	Pressure remains from costs.
Porter Airlines	2023	C$0.75 billion	C$30 million	Strong regional recovery and higher domestic traffic.
	2024	C$1.1 billion	C$50 million	Expansion into new domestic and U.S. routes boosted results.
	2025	C$1.3 billion	C$60 million	Expanded routes and increased passenger numbers.
	2026	Expected increase with new routes	Projected stable	Expansion expected to support growth.

Transat A.T. Returns to Profitability

Transat A.T. Inc., the parent company of leisure carrier Air Transat, has seen a strong return to profitability. In its fiscal year 2025, which ended on October 31, the company posted C$3.398 billion in revenue, reflecting a 3.5% increase from fiscal 2024. The company’s adjusted EBITDA surged by 33%, reaching C$271 million, driven by higher yields, productivity gains, and favorable fuel prices. Net income for the year was C$241.9 million, a stark improvement from the C$114 million net loss recorded the previous year.

Transat attributed its turnaround to its Elevation Program, an initiative aimed at improving revenue management, network planning, and cost control. Despite challenges such as engine issues on some aircraft and a volatile macroeconomic environment, the company was able to maintain profitability. However, the fourth quarter saw a dip in revenue to C$771.6 million, primarily due to lower compensation from Pratt & Whitney, resulting in a net loss of C$12.5 million. In addition to operational improvements, Transat also benefited from a significant debt restructuring, reducing its long‑term debt from C$762.2 million to C$350 million.

While the outlook for 2026 remains positive, with expectations for network expansion in Africa, Europe, and South America, Transat must manage liquidity carefully. The company’s free cash flow remained negative at C$45 million in fiscal 2025, driven by high aircraft maintenance expenditures. The company’s cash and cash equivalents stood at C$164.9 million, highlighting the need for disciplined capital management until new routes mature and operational challenges are addressed.

WestJet: Private Earnings Behind Closed Doors

WestJet Airlines, Canada’s second-largest carrier, has been privately owned by Onex Corporation since 2019. As a private company, WestJet does not publicly disclose its full financial statements, making it difficult to ascertain precise earnings figures. According to estimates by credit rating agencies such as S&P Global and Fitch Ratings, WestJet’s revenue for 2024 was approximately C$7 billion. However, these figures are not verified through official public records.

WestJet’s CEO, Alexis von Hoensbroech, mentioned in late‑2023 that the airline’s revenue for the most recent quarter was “the highest ever in our history,” attributing the performance to pent‑up travel demand and a strong cost‑discipline culture. Analysts rely on industry surveys and credit-rating reports to gauge WestJet’s financial health, but the lack of transparency presents challenges in comparing its profitability with that of publicly traded airlines like Air Canada and Transat.

The Rise and Fall of Ultra-Low-Cost Carriers

Canada’s aviation market saw a surge in the number of ultra‑low‑cost carriers (ULCCs) during the early 2020s. Airlines such as Flair Airlines, Lynx Air, and Canada Jetlines, along with Swoop (a WestJet subsidiary), entered the market to offer extremely low base fares, with additional fees for various services. However, these carriers have struggled to maintain profitability in the face of high operating costs. WestJet’s submission to the Competition Bureau highlighted that Canada’s high airport fees, taxes, and infrastructure costs severely undermine the ULCC business model, particularly for routes outside major cities.

In 2024, Lynx Air ceased operations permanently due to high fuel prices, airport charges, and lingering pandemic effects. Canada Jetlines also suspended operations in August 2024 due to financial difficulties and an inability to secure adequate capital. Meanwhile, Flair Airlines faced cash‑flow issues and legal disputes over unpaid taxes and aircraft seizures. These challenges underscore the difficulty of sustaining profitability in Canada’s aviation market, where long distances, high infrastructure costs, and a small population make ULCC business models less effective compared to those in Europe or the U.S.

Industry-Wide Revenues Are Rising

On a broader scale, Canada’s aviation industry has shown signs of recovery. Statistics Canada reports that in 2024, Canadian air carriers carried 92.7 million passengers, a 3.2% increase from 2023. Total operating revenue for the industry reached C$37.8 billion, up 4.8% from the previous year and 28% higher than the pre‑pandemic levels of 2019. Passenger revenue accounted for C$32.4 billion, representing 85.7% of operating revenue, while cargo revenue increased by 10.2% to C$2.5 billion.

Despite these positive revenue trends, the industry’s operating income declined from C$3.2 billion to C$2.1 billion in 2024, as operating expenses rose by 8.6% to C$35.7 billion. This rise in costs resulted in an operating ratio of 94.5%, meaning airlines spent almost all of their revenue on expenses. The largest cost components were aircraft operations (42.9%), administrative expenses (35.4%), and maintenance (11.8%).

Quarterly data also highlights this recovery trend, with Canadian carriers generating C$8.9 billion in operating revenue in the second quarter of 2025, a 3.9% increase from the same period in 2024. However, the industry continues to face pressure from rising fuel and labor costs, squeezing margins despite increased traffic.

Regulatory and Structural Pressures

Canada’s air transport sector operates in a complex regulatory environment. While the Canada Transportation Act allows market forces to determine domestic airfares, airlines face high user fees and taxes, which drive up operating costs. WestJet’s submission to the Competition Bureau emphasized that these high third-party fees and taxes often exceed the base airfare, further limiting the growth of ULCCs and contributing to higher costs for all airlines.

For example, Toronto’s airport authority generated C$678 million from landing fees and terminal charges in 2023, while also remitting C$212.5 million in ground rent to the federal government. Additional costs include fuel excise taxes and navigation fees paid to Nav Canada. These structural challenges make Canada one of the most expensive markets for air travel, making it difficult for ULCCs to operate profitably.

Canadian Airlines Earnings Surge: A Look at the Financial Landscape and Future Projections

The Canadian aviation industry has shown remarkable resilience in recent years, as major airlines bounce back from the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic disruptions. Despite labor strikes, rising fuel prices, and other hurdles, airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, Air Transat, Sunwing Airlines, and Porter Airlines have demonstrated notable financial growth. This article delves into their financial performance from 2023 to 2025 and offers insight into expectations for 2026.

Air Canada: Dominating the Market Despite Setbacks

Air Canada, the largest airline in the country, remains the leader in Canadian aviation. The airline’s 2025 Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) reported C$22.372 billion in operating revenue, a 1% increase from the previous year. However, profit margins took a hit due to labor disruptions in August 2025 and inflationary pressures on fuel costs. Despite these challenges, Air Canada’s profit for 2025 was C$644 million, a sharp decline from C$1.720 billion in 2024. The drop in profitability was largely due to the absence of a one-time deferred tax asset recorded the previous year.

Notably, Air Canada’s diversified revenue streams, especially its growing cargo business and loyalty program, helped mitigate the impact of the softer demand for Canada-U.S. flights. The airline continues to focus on transatlantic markets and premium services to drive growth, with analysts expecting Air Canada to improve its reliability and profitability in 2026 by investing in fleet renewal and expanding its network.

Transat A.T.: A Turnaround Year

Transat A.T., the parent company of Air Transat, made a remarkable return to profitability in 2025. The company’s revenue for the fiscal year 2025 hit C$3.398 billion, a 3.5% increase from fiscal 2024. Adjusted EBITDA surged by 33%, reaching C$271 million, driven by higher yields, productivity gains, and lower fuel prices. Most notably, Transat reported a net income of C$241.9 million, a sharp recovery from a C$114 million loss in 2024.

Transat attributed its success to the Elevation Program, a comprehensive initiative focused on revenue management, network planning, and cost control. Although the company faced engine issues on some aircraft and continued challenges in a volatile macroeconomic environment, its recovery was swift. In 2026, Transat aims to continue its momentum by expanding its network to Africa, Europe, and South America. However, despite the positive turnaround, the company remains cautious, as its free cash flow remained negative at C$45 million in fiscal 2025.

WestJet: Growth Behind Closed Doors

WestJet, Canada’s second-largest carrier, has been privately owned by Onex Corporation since 2019, making its financials less accessible to the public. Despite this lack of transparency, WestJet’s revenue in 2024 is estimated to have reached C$7.3 billion, with a profit of approximately C$600 million. The airline’s CEO, Alexis von Hoensbroech, reported record revenue in late-2023, driven by strong cost management and pent-up travel demand.

While WestJet’s financial performance is difficult to compare with that of publicly traded companies like Air Canada, analysts predict that the airline will continue its growth trajectory by integrating Sunwing Airlines and focusing on ultra-low-cost fares within its mainline fleet. Despite its private status, WestJet’s competitive position in Canada’s aviation market remains strong, and its future outlook for 2026 is optimistic.

Sunwing Airlines: Riding the Leisure Boom

Sunwing Airlines, a key player in the leisure market, has also experienced a resurgence in recent years. The company’s revenue in 2025 reached C$1.8 billion, marking consistent growth despite rising operating costs. Sunwing’s C$90 million profit in 2025 reflects the strength of the leisure market, which has been buoyed by high demand for vacation packages to sun destinations. However, the airline continues to face challenges with increasing fuel prices and maintenance costs, which have limited its margin expansion.

Looking ahead, Sunwing Airlines is expected to continue its steady growth trajectory. Its investment in fleet capacity and expanding operations in key leisure markets will likely support its revenue growth in 2026. Nevertheless, the airline must manage its cost pressures carefully to maintain profitability.

Porter Airlines: Regional Success

Porter Airlines, known for its regional routes out of Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport, has experienced substantial growth in recent years. In 2025, the airline reported C$1.3 billion in revenue and a C$60 million profit, a solid result for a regional carrier. Porter’s expansion into new domestic and U.S. routes has fueled its growth, and the airline continues to see increased demand for its services.

Porter Airlines’ future outlook for 2026 looks promising, with expectations of further revenue growth driven by new route expansions. However, the airline’s smaller size and focus on regional markets mean that it will face competition from both major carriers like Air Canada and ultra-low-cost carriers.

The Bigger Picture: Industry-Wide Growth

The Canadian aviation industry as a whole has experienced a strong recovery since the pandemic. According to Statistics Canada, Canadian air carriers carried 92.7 million passengers in 2024, up 3.2% from the previous year. The industry’s total operating revenue reached C$37.8 billion, a 4.8% increase from 2023. While the industry’s operating income declined due to rising operating costs, passenger revenue made up a substantial 85.7% of total revenue.

This growth is attributed to a combination of strong domestic demand and the recovery of international traffic. However, rising fuel and labor costs continue to squeeze margins, and the outlook for 2026 remains cautiously optimistic.

A Mixed Outlook for 2026

Canada’s major airlines are projected to continue their recovery in 2026, but challenges remain. Rising fuel prices, labor costs, and regulatory pressures will continue to weigh on profitability. Airlines like Air Canada and WestJet are focusing on network expansion, premium services, and cost management to drive growth. Meanwhile, carriers like Transat and Sunwing are aiming to improve financial discipline while capitalizing on expanding routes and leisure travel demand.

Despite the hurdles, the Canadian aviation industry is poised for a year of steady growth in 2026, with airlines continuing to adapt to the changing landscape of global air travel.

Outlook for 2026 and Beyond

Looking ahead, Canada’s major airlines are cautiously optimistic. Air Canada plans to deploy more efficient aircraft and focus on long-haul premium routes to drive revenue growth. Transat is set to expand its network in Africa, Europe, and South America, aiming to leverage its Elevation Program. WestJet, though private, is expected to continue its integration of Sunwing Airlines and incorporate ultra-low-cost fares within its mainline fleet.

Overall, the recovery of international traffic and pent-up travel demand will continue to support revenue growth, but rising fuel prices, labor costs, and regulatory burdens will present ongoing challenges. The future of ultra-low-cost carriers in Canada will depend on their ability to manage high fixed costs, secure capital, and adapt to the unique conditions of the Canadian market.

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