WestJet will operate its new Toronto-Glasgow route four times a week using Boeing 737 Max aircraft. Services will operate to and from Toronto's Pearson International airport.
According to WestJet, which last flew to Glasgow in 2022, Canada is one of Scotland's top two outbound markets, with visitors spending £135 million in 2024.
Nearly five million Canadians claim Scottish ancestry said the carrier, which added it hoped to support stronger leisure and business ties between the two countries.
Toronto is a gateway to Niagara Falls, while Pearson International offers extensive connections across North America, as well as US immigration pre-clearance.
Chris Tibbett, Executive Director, Commercial, Aviation and Marketing for Glasgow airport owner AGS Airports, said: "The return of this vital transatlantic link is clear evidence of the strong demand that exists for direct connectivity between our two countries, supporting tourism, trade and investment on both sides of the Atlantic."
With Glasgow poised to host the Commonwealth Games in July and August, Tibbett added: "The timing of this new service is particularly significant, and we look forward to seeing it go from strength to strength in the years ahead."
Councillor Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council, added: "Canada is an important market for the city, with strong cultural and economic ties, and this new direct service will make it easier than ever for visitors to experience our vibrant, welcoming and internationally renowned destination."
Air Transat, meanwhile, operated its first non-stop flight between London and Ottawa on Friday (15 May). Flight TS383 took off from Gatwick at 9.40am flying to Ottawa's Macdonald-Cartier International airport.
Air Transat will operate the route exclusively three times a week on Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays, with flights arriving into Ottawa at 12.40pm local time. Returns depart Ottawa at 7.40pm arriving into Gatwick at 7.55am (+1). Flight time is seven hours 15 minutes. Air Transat will operate the route until 23 October 2026.
Ottawa is Canada's capital and its fourth largest city, known for its architecture, many museums and outdoor activities, with more than 800km of walking and cycling pathways. The city also provides many options for onward connections within Canada and throughout North America, including via Air Transat partner Porter Airlines.
Sebastian Ponce, Transat’s Chief Revenue Officer, said: "This new route reflects our commitment to offering travellers more choice, greater flexibility and a smoother journey as we continue to strengthen our long-term presence in the UK–Canada market.”
Jonny Macneal, Gatwick's Head of Aviation Development, added: "Canada is an important market for us, and this route opens up the country’s capital with faster, more convenient journeys. We’re delighted to celebrate this first-ever connection and look forward to welcoming even more passengers travelling between London and Ottawa this summer.”
The route grows Air Transat's roster of direct flights between the UK and Canada to 34 a week during peak season. It will operate its Ottawa-Gatwick route using Airbus fleet, including its A321LR (long range) aircraft.
