The Portugal Guides

Air Canada Opens Azores–Toronto Nonstop from 11 June

· 2 min read Travel News
Green volcanic caldera and lake on São Miguel island, Azores — now connected to Toronto by Air Canada nonstop

Air Canada launched its inaugural flight AC912 between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Ponta Delgada’s João Paulo II Airport (PDL) on 11 June 2026, establishing the first direct link between the Azores and Canada’s largest city. The seasonal service runs until 5 September 2026, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays outbound, with return flights on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

The aircraft is a Boeing 737 MAX 8 offering Economy and Premium Economy cabins. Flight time is approximately six hours in each direction. Premium Economy includes additional legroom, a dedicated meal service, and priority boarding — a worthwhile upgrade on a transatlantic crossing of this length.

For travellers, the route removes a longstanding gap in connectivity. Previously, reaching São Miguel from Canada required a connection in Lisbon, London, or Frankfurt. Canadians of Azorean descent — one of the largest Portuguese-speaking communities outside Portugal — can now fly home nonstop for the summer season.

The flight also benefits international visitors coming from North America who want to begin or end a Portugal trip in the Azores rather than on the mainland. Onward connections from Toronto to cities across Canada, the United States, and South America are available within the Air Canada network, and the airline’s Aeroplan frequent-flyer programme applies to the route.

June through August is the Azores’ high season. São Miguel’s famous volcanic lakes at Sete Cidades and Furnas, whale watching off the coast, and the lush trail networks across the island are all at their best in summer. Accommodation books quickly in peak months, so we recommend confirming lodging alongside your flights.

For context on flying into the broader country, our flights to Portugal guide covers the main entry points into Lisbon and Porto as well as island connections, and our Portugal in June page outlines what to expect from the weather, festivals, and beach conditions across the country this month.