According to Cardiff Airport, the new service will operate four times a week from 23 May 2026, offering passengers from Wales, the South West of England, and the Midlands a new transatlantic option. The route is expected to provide onward connections via Toronto Pearson International Airport to destinations across WestJet’s North American network, including Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal.
WestJet has selected Cardiff as its exclusive UK airport for 2026. Cardiff Airport says the move reflects growing demand for international travel from the region and supports its post-pandemic recovery, with passenger numbers reportedly approaching one million per year.
The last direct air link between Cardiff and Canada was operated by Zoom Airlines, which offered seasonal flights to Toronto before ceasing operations in 2008. Since then, travellers between Wales and Canada have relied on connecting services via London or other European hubs. Cardiff Airport is positioning the new WestJet route as a revival of that long-lost connection, with hopes of long-term sustainability and broader North American access.
Jon Bridge, Chief Executive Officer of Cardiff Airport, said:
“We’re incredibly proud that WestJet has chosen Cardiff Airport as a new UK destination for summer 2026. This new Toronto route marks an exciting milestone in our growth and a major step forward in reconnecting Wales with North America. It will strengthen tourism, create new opportunities for trade and investment, and showcase Wales on the global stage.”
WestJet’s Senior Airport Affairs Manager, Chris White-DeVries, said:
“We’re thrilled to bring WestJet’s friendly, affordable and reliable service to Wales for the first time. Cardiff is a vibrant capital with a proud and rich history, and we see huge potential in connecting it directly with Toronto, a key gateway to North America.
“This route will make it easier than ever for Canadian travellers to discover Wales’ stunning coastlines and culture, while giving guests across Wales and western England seamless access to Eastern Canada and beyond.”
The announcement comes ahead of Canada’s co-hosting of the FIFA World Cup in 2026 and is being positioned by Cardiff Airport as a boost to tourism, business, and cultural exchange.
Welsh Government representatives also welcomed the move. First Minister Eluned Morgan MS said:
“This is welcome news for passengers, businesses and our tourism industries, both in Wales and Canada. With good connections to other Canadian cities, the new Toronto route will open up new economic opportunities for Wales in North America.
“We have around 35 Canadian companies in Wales, employing around 6,500 people, while Canada is an export market worth over £300m a year. Ahead of our Wales Investment Summit on 1st December, this is a positive example of how we are opening up international opportunities for people and businesses in Wales.”
WestJet’s Cardiff–Toronto service is scheduled to begin on 23 May 2026.
