Porter Airlines is significantly expanding its transborder presence, celebrating the launch of its first-ever U.S. route from Western Canada while simultaneously boosting its sun destination offerings from Ottawa. The carrier has introduced daily service between Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), alongside new nonstop flights connecting Ottawa (YOW) to both Miami (MIA) and Phoenix.
First Transborder Route from Western Canada
Marking a major milestone in its growth strategy, Porter has launched daily nonstop service between Vancouver and Phoenix. This seasonal route, running until April 19, 2026, represents the airline’s first transborder connection from Western Canada.
“Being able to give travellers more convenient options to travel from Vancouver is a pivotal moment for Porter,” Andrew Pierce, Porter’s vice president of network planning and reporting, said in a statement. “This route makes Phoenix’s unique desert and mountain landscape more accessible to our passengers in the west, and offers travellers a seamless connection to additional destinations in the U.S., through our codeshare partner, American Airlines.”
Russ Atkinson, the director of air service development at Vancouver International Airport, noted the economic and connectivity benefits of the new service.
“The new non-stop route to Phoenix strengthens connectivity for British Columbians, adds capacity for a key leisure and business destination, and supports economic activity while providing travellers with greater choice,” Atkinson added.
Ottawa Connectivity Grows
In addition to its western expansion, Porter is enhancing its position at Ottawa International Airport with the only nonstop service to Miami and Phoenix.
The Miami service began on Jan. 24 with three weekly flights, joining Porter’s existing Florida routes to Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Orlando, and Tampa. The Ottawa to Phoenix service is set to begin Feb. 7, operating three times weekly.
“The ongoing addition of nonstop routes from YOW reflects Porter’s commitment to Ottawa-Gatineau,” said Pierce. “Canadians want to escape winter and these in-demand routes provide more options and more sun for the region.”
Joel Tkach, vice president of business development and marketing for the Ottawa International Airport Authority, highlighted the strategic importance of these additions.
“Porter Airlines’ latest YOW service expansion adds nonstop flights to Miami and Phoenix, responding to strong passenger demand for warm‑weather travel,” Tkach said. “These routes further strengthen our connectivity to the U.S. Southwest and open valuable opportunities for our region.”
American Airlines Partnership and Onboard Experience
All new routes utilize Porter’s Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, featuring a 132-seat configuration with no middle seats. The airline continues to market its “elevated economy” experience, which includes free premium snacks, complimentary beer and wine served in glassware, and free, fast Wi-Fi for all passengers.
The expansion also leverages Porter’s codeshare partnership with American Airlines, offering travelers extensive onward connectivity. In Phoenix alone, the partnership opens up access to 36 additional destinations in the Western U.S., including Tucson, San Diego, and Hawaii.
“We’re excited for Porter’s growth in the Phoenix market,” said Chad Makovsky, the aviation director of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. “Their partnership and commitment mean that travellers have more high-quality, convenient options between Phoenix and Canada.”
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