Air Canada explores expanding Japanese routes amid increased interest

Currently, only Tokyo Narita, Tokyo Haneda, and Osaka airports offer direct flights between Japan and North America. The introduction of Air Canada into these markets could impact the transpacific travel sector and enhance access for Japanese travelers heading to North America.

As of now, Air Canada's operations in Japan include four nonstop routes: Montreal to Tokyo Narita, Vancouver to Tokyo Narita, Toronto to Tokyo Narita, and Toronto to Tokyo Haneda. These are serviced by Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. During the summer season, additional services from Vancouver and Toronto to Osaka are added with Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.

Meanwhile, Edmonton International Airport in Alberta is also looking at increasing connections with Japan by potentially launching charter flights to Kumamoto Airport. This initiative aims to evaluate demand and profitability before considering regular nonstop services starting as early as 2027. This plan aligns with the upcoming opening of a Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company facility in Kumamoto that is anticipated to boost regional economic activity.

Kumamoto News Web reports that if successful, this would be Kumamoto Airport's first transpacific route amidst existing connections with South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.

Air Canada did not provide immediate comments on this development when contacted on January 12th.