Key Takeaways
• Air Canada resumed direct Toronto-Prague flights on June 6, 2025, operating three times weekly through September 28.
• Airbus A330-300 aircraft provide Signature, Premium Economy, and Economy classes for comfort on this seasonal route.
• No visa required for Canadians up to 90 days; Czech travelers need eTA for short stays in Canada.
Air Canada has officially resumed direct flights between Toronto and Prague, marking a significant development for travelers, businesses, and families with ties between Canada 🇨🇦 and the Czech Republic. The inaugural flight took off from Toronto Pearson International Airport on June 6, 2025, and landed in Prague on June 7, 2025. This move brings back a much-anticipated connection that was halted in October 2019 due to the pandemic and the retirement of Air Canada’s Boeing 767 fleet.
This new seasonal route is more than just another flight on the schedule—it’s a bridge between two countries, making it easier for people to visit loved ones, explore new business opportunities, and experience the rich cultures of both nations. The service is set to run through the busy summer travel season, offering a direct, convenient option for those traveling between Toronto and Prague.
Let’s take a closer look at what this route means for travelers, the details of the service, and the broader impact on tourism, business, and immigration between Canada 🇨🇦 and Central Europe.
Route Details: Schedule and Service
The Toronto-Prague route is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of travelers, from tourists and businesspeople to those visiting family and friends. Here’s how the schedule breaks down:
Toronto to Prague (Flight AC934):
– Departure: 21:40 from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
– Arrival: 12:10 (+1 day) at Prague Václav Havel Airport (PRG)
– Operating Days: Tuesdays, Fridays, Sundays
– Service Period: June 6 to September 28, 2025
Prague to Toronto (Flight AC935):
– Departure: 13:40 from Prague Václav Havel Airport (PRG)
– Arrival: 16:50 at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
– Operating Days: Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays
– Service Period: June 7 to September 29, 2025
Key Points:
– Frequency: Three times per week in each direction
– Seasonal Operation: Focused on the peak summer travel period
– Direct Connection: No need for layovers or connecting flights in other European cities
This schedule is ideal for those planning summer vacations, business trips, or family visits, as it offers flexibility and convenience during the busiest travel months.
Aircraft and Onboard Experience
Air Canada is using its Airbus A330-300 aircraft for the Toronto-Prague route. This wide-body plane is known for its comfort and reliability on long-haul flights. Passengers can choose from three service classes:
- Air Canada Signature Class:
- Lie-flat seats for maximum comfort on overnight flights
- Personalized service and fine dining
- Extra baggage allowance
- Priority check-in and boarding
- Premium Economy:
- More space and upgraded meal options
- Enhanced comfort compared to standard economy
- Economy:
- Affordable fares
- Complimentary meals and entertainment
This range of options means travelers can select the level of comfort and service that best fits their needs and budget.
Why This Route Matters: Strategic and Cultural Significance
The return of direct flights between Toronto and Prague is not just about convenience—it’s a strategic move for Air Canada and a boost for both countries. Mark Galardo, Air Canada’s Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer and President, Cargo, summed it up:
“We are excited to return to Prague, our newest Europe destination now added to our global network. Our flights connect two countries, facilitating travel, tourism and trade. We design routes like this one to appeal to our customers throughout our North American network, with convenient travel options at our Toronto hub.”
Key Benefits:
– Strengthening Ties: Direct flights make it easier for Canadians and Czechs to visit each other, whether for tourism, business, or family reasons.
– Boosting Tourism: Prague is famous for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. Canadians now have a direct path to explore this European gem.
– Supporting Business: The route opens up new opportunities for trade and business partnerships between Canada 🇨🇦 and the Czech Republic.
– Serving the Diaspora: Many people in Canada 🇨🇦 have roots in Central Europe. This direct flight makes it simpler for them to stay connected with family and heritage.
Part of a Larger European Expansion
The Toronto-Prague route is just one piece of Air Canada’s broader strategy to expand its presence in Europe for the summer of 2025. Other recent and upcoming route launches include:
- Montreal to Porto: Started in early June 2025
- Montreal to Naples: Began in May 2025
- Ottawa to London Heathrow: Launched in April 2025
- Montreal to Edinburgh: Scheduled for late June 2025
These new routes add to Air Canada’s already extensive European network, which covers major cities like Amsterdam, Athens, Barcelona, Paris, Dublin, Rome, Frankfurt, London, Lisbon, Madrid, Munich, Milan, Zurich, and more.
For travelers, this means more choices and easier connections to Europe’s most popular destinations. For Air Canada, it’s a way to stay competitive and meet the growing demand for transatlantic travel.
Booking Information: Fares and Promotions
Travelers interested in flying between Toronto and Prague can book tickets now. Here’s what you need to know about fares:
- Round-trip Economy Fares: Start at CAD 1,089
- Aeroplan Points: Round-trip tickets from Toronto to Prague start at 148,800 points plus CAD 505 in taxes and fees
Special Promotion:
Air Canada is offering a promotion for travel between June 16, 2025, and December 15, 2025. To take advantage of this deal, bookings must be made by June 11, 2025.
For the most up-to-date information on fares, schedules, and promotions, travelers can visit the official Air Canada website.
Immigration and Visa Considerations
Direct flights between Toronto and Prague make travel easier, but travelers still need to pay attention to immigration and visa requirements.
For Canadian Citizens Visiting the Czech Republic
- Short Visits: Canadians can visit the Czech Republic for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa, for tourism or business.
- Longer Stays: For stays longer than 90 days, a visa or residence permit is required.
- Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least three months beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen Area.
For Czech Citizens Visiting Canada 🇨🇦
- eTA Requirement: Czech citizens traveling to Canada 🇨🇦 by air need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This is a simple online process that usually takes just a few minutes.
- Apply for an eTA on the official Government of Canada website.
- Visitor Visa: For longer stays, work, or study, a different type of visa may be required.
For Permanent Residents and Dual Citizens
- Permanent Residents of Canada 🇨🇦: Must carry their valid PR card when returning to Canada 🇨🇦 by air.
- Dual Citizens: Should travel with their Canadian passport when entering Canada 🇨🇦.
Tip: Always check the latest entry requirements before booking travel, as rules can change.
Market Impact: Tourism, Business, and Community
The new Toronto-Prague route is expected to have a positive impact on several groups:
Tourists
- Canadian Tourists: Prague is a top European destination, known for its fairy-tale castles, lively squares, and rich history. Direct flights make it easier for Canadians to experience the city’s charm.
- Czech Tourists: Canada 🇨🇦 offers stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and a welcoming atmosphere. The direct route encourages more Central Europeans to visit Canada 🇨🇦.
Business Travelers
- Trade and Investment: Direct flights reduce travel time and make it easier for companies to build relationships, attend meetings, and explore new markets.
- Conferences and Events: The route supports participation in international conferences, trade shows, and cultural exchanges.
Families and Communities
- Visiting Friends and Relatives (VFR): Many people in Canada 🇨🇦 have family roots in Central Europe. The direct flight helps families stay connected and celebrate important events together.
- Cultural Exchange: Easier travel supports cultural programs, student exchanges, and partnerships between schools and organizations.
Prague’s Growing Role as a North American Gateway
Prague Václav Havel Airport now has two scheduled nonstop links to North America: Air Canada’s Toronto service and Delta Air Lines’ existing route from New York-JFK. This strengthens Prague’s position as a key entry point for North American travelers heading to Central and Eastern Europe.
For the Czech Republic, this means more visitors, greater international exposure, and increased opportunities for business and tourism. For Air Canada, it’s a chance to tap into a growing market and offer more options to its customers.
What This Means for Immigration and Mobility
Direct air links like the Toronto-Prague route play a big role in shaping immigration patterns and making cross-border movement easier. Here’s how:
- Simplifying Travel: Direct flights remove barriers for people who want to visit family, explore job opportunities, or study abroad.
- Supporting Newcomers: Immigrants and refugees from Central Europe can travel more easily between their new home in Canada 🇨🇦 and their country of origin.
- Encouraging Exchange: Easier travel supports student exchanges, work placements, and cultural programs that help people learn from each other and build lasting connections.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, direct routes like this one are often a first step in building deeper ties between countries, leading to more immigration, business partnerships, and cultural understanding over time.
Practical Guidance for Travelers
If you’re planning to take advantage of the new Toronto-Prague route, here are some steps to make your journey smoother:
- Check Entry Requirements: Make sure you have the right travel documents, such as a valid passport, eTA, or visa.
- Book Early: Summer is a busy travel season. Booking early can help you get the best fares and preferred travel dates.
- Consider Travel Insurance: Protect yourself against unexpected changes or emergencies.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on airline updates, government travel advisories, and health requirements.
- Explore Both Cities: Whether you’re starting in Toronto or Prague, take time to enjoy the local sights, food, and culture.
Conclusion: A New Era for Canada 🇨🇦 and the Czech Republic
The launch of Air Canada’s direct flights between Toronto and Prague is more than just a new travel option—it’s a sign of growing ties between two countries with deep historical and cultural connections. For travelers, it means more convenience, better choices, and new adventures. For businesses and communities, it opens doors to new partnerships and friendships.
As the route settles into its first season, its full impact will become clear. But one thing is certain: the skies between Toronto and Prague are now open, bringing people, ideas, and opportunities closer together than ever before.
For more information on travel requirements and official updates, visit the Government of Canada’s travel page.
Learn Today
Airbus A330-300 → A wide-body aircraft used by Air Canada for long-haul flights offering modern comfort and efficiency.
eTA → Electronic Travel Authorization required online for Czech citizens flying to Canada for short visits.
Seasonal Route → A flight service operating only during peak travel periods, such as summer months.
Signature Class → Air Canada’s premium cabin featuring lie-flat seats, gourmet dining, and priority boarding.
Schengen Area → A zone of European countries allowing passport-free travel for short stays up to 90 days.
This Article in a Nutshell
Air Canada restarted direct flights between Toronto and Prague on June 6, 2025, using Airbus A330-300s. This seasonal route improves tourism, business, and family travel, connecting Canada and the Czech Republic with three weekly flights, easing immigration and providing flexible service options through September’s busy travel season.
— By VisaVerge.com
