Air Transat begins non-stop service to iconic Brazilian city

Air Transat has introduced non-stop service to Rio de Janeiro, linking Toronto and Montreal directly to the iconic Brazilian city. The inaugural flight from Toronto Pearson International Airport (TS272) departed on Wednesday, followed by a flight from Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (TS274) on Thursday. The routes solidify the airline’s presence in South America and position it as the sole carrier connecting Montreal directly to Rio.

The Toronto–Rio de Janeiro route operates twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, until June 10. Meanwhile, the Montreal–Rio de Janeiro service, exclusive to Air Transat, runs weekly on Thursdays until June 4. Both routes are served by Airbus A330 aircraft, offering passengers spacious seating and comfort over long-haul journeys.

“We’re proud to create a direct bridge between Canada and Brazil,” said Sebastian Ponce, Air Transat’s chief revenue officer. He emphasized the flights’ role in simplifying access to Rio’s “vibrant culture” and facilitating transcontinental travel and family reunions. The Montreal route provides a unique connection, as no other airline currently offers non-stop service between the two cities.

The expansion aligns with growing demand between the two regions, according to Kurush Minocher, chief commercial officer at Toronto Pearson. “Travel between Canada and Rio is a key market, with 44,000 passengers annualizing these routes, nearly half originating from Pearson,” he noted. The new service, he added, enhances connectivity for both leisure and business travelers, responding to market momentum.

Air Transat, founded in Montreal in 1987, has historically focused on European and tropical destinations. This move into Brazil reflects its strategy to diversify its network.