Air Canada has announced its latest addition to its international network: nonstop flights between Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL). This service begins on April 2, 2025, marking the airline’s 12th transpacific route from Vancouver and its third Southeast Asian destination in two years. The announcement was made during the Government of Canada’s Team Canada Trade Mission in the Philippines, celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations, highlighting the significance of Air Canada’s Manila venture.
Air Canada, the only Canadian airline serving the Philippines, aims to enhance connectivity between North America and Asia with this route. Flights will operate four times weekly, using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Customers can enjoy a choice of three cabins: Signature Class with lie-flat seats, Premium Economy, and Economy Class. Travelers will also benefit from the airline’s extensive in-flight entertainment options, including collaborations with Apple TV+, Disney+, and Audible. This new service underlines Air Canada Manila’s role in bridging North America with Asia.
Mark Galardo, Air Canada’s Executive Vice President, Revenue and Network Planning, stated, “We are thrilled to add Manila to our global network with new, year-round, non-stop service from Vancouver, Air Canada’s Pacific gateway hub. We continue to pursue our international network strategy of expanding to large, fast-growing markets that are presently unserved directly by Air Canada. The Philippines is an important market reflecting longstanding family ties between our two countries with growing business connections and tourism opportunities.”
With Vancouver positioned as the closest major North American city to Asia, this route enhances access to over 50 destinations across North America through seamless connections at YVR. In addition, passengers traveling to Canada from Manila will soon be able to book flights online, through Air Canada’s contact centers, and via travel agents, ensuring Air Canada Manila travelers a convenient booking experience.
Supporting Trade and Strengthening Ties
The Vancouver-Manila route coincides with growing trade and cultural connections between Canada and the Philippines. In 2023, bilateral merchandise trade between the two countries reached $3.4 billion. Air Canada’s new route is expected to generate $46 million in economic value for the Vancouver region, promoting tourism, investment, and stronger ties between communities.
Tamara Vrooman, President and CEO of Vancouver International Airport, remarked, “This new Manila service builds on their extensive Asia network from YVR, bringing family, friends and business together and providing travelers with more choice and connections.”
Government leaders also recognized the importance of this launch. B.C. Premier David Eby highlighted its benefits for Filipino Canadians, saying, “This will strengthen cultural and economic ties between Canada and the Philippines.” Mayor Ken Sim of Vancouver added that the new route would “bring loved ones closer, make reunions easier, and open the door to even more opportunities to connect and celebrate their heritage.” Clearly, routes like Air Canada Manila are significant for community connections.
The service supports Canada’s engagement with Southeast Asia, a region identified as a priority for trade and investment growth. Jeff Nankivell, President and CEO of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, described the route as “a year-round, non-stop service [that] will better connect the businesspeople, families, students, official visitors, and tourists who underpin our countries’ relationship.”
Expanding Horizons for Travelers
This route adds to Air Canada’s growing presence in Southeast Asia. Recent launches of nonstop services to Singapore and Bangkok have doubled the airline’s summer seat capacity over the Pacific since 2022, further highlighting Air Canada Manila’s contribution to their network. Passengers on the Vancouver-Manila flights will enjoy Vancouver’s in-transit customs pre-clearance, simplifying international connections. Eligible travelers can also access Air Canada’s Signature Suite and International Maple Leaf Lounge at YVR.
The Philippine route reaffirms Air Canada’s commitment to offering more options for leisure and business travelers while fostering stronger economic and cultural links between Canada and the Philippines. With flights already available for booking, this milestone marks a new chapter in Air Canada’s transpacific expansion and emphasizes the importance of the Air Canada Manila service.
