Air Canada Launches New Summer Route Between Montréal and Edinburgh

Key Takeaways

• Air Canada launched Montréal–Edinburgh nonstop flights starting June 26, 2025, operating three times weekly until September 7, 2025.
• The route uses Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft with Premium Economy and Economy cabins, enhancing Canada-Scotland travel connections.
• This seasonal service aims to boost tourism, business ties, and cultural exchange between Canada and Scotland during summer.

Air Canada’s New Montréal–Edinburgh Route: What Travelers Need to Know

Air Canada has launched a new direct route between Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and Edinburgh Airport, marking a significant milestone for travelers and the aviation industry. The first flight took off from Montréal on June 26, 2025, and landed in Edinburgh on June 27, 2025. This is the first-ever nonstop service connecting these two cities, and it’s already making waves among travelers, tourism boards, and business leaders on both sides of the Atlantic.

This new route is part of Air Canada’s larger plan to expand its transatlantic network for the summer of 2025. Along with the Montréal–Edinburgh service, Air Canada is also adding new flights to Porto, Prague, and Naples, and increasing the number of flights to Paris, Athens, and Rome. The move is designed to meet the growing demand for travel between North America and Europe, especially as more people look to visit family, explore new destinations, or do business abroad.

Let’s break down what this new route means for travelers, the aviation industry, and the broader relationship between Canada 🇨🇦 and Scotland 🇬🇧.

Key Details of the New Route

• Route: Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) to Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
• Aircraft: Boeing 737 MAX 8
• Cabins: Premium Economy and Economy
• Frequency: Three times per week
• Operating Dates: June 26, 2025 – September 7, 2025

Flight Schedule:

The Boeing 737 MAX 8 used for this route typically seats 169 passengers, with 16 seats in Premium Economy and 153 in Economy. This setup offers a comfortable experience for both leisure and business travelers.

Why This Route Matters

The launch of the Montréal–Edinburgh route is important for several reasons:

• First-ever nonstop service: This is the only direct flight between Montréal and Edinburgh, making travel between these cities faster and easier.
• Seasonal convenience: The route operates during the busy summer travel season, when demand for transatlantic flights is highest.
• Boost for tourism and business: Direct flights encourage more people to visit, do business, and build connections between Canada 🇨🇦 and Scotland.

Celebrating the First Flight

The inaugural flight was welcomed in Edinburgh with a traditional Scottish ceremony, including a bagpiper and an official welcome led by Air Canada’s Managing Director of International Sales, Rocky Lo. This celebration highlighted the importance of the new route for both countries and set the tone for a summer of increased travel and partnership.

Official Statements from Key Stakeholders

Several leaders shared their excitement about the new route:

• Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer and President, Cargo, Air Canada:
  “This new connection between Canada and Scotland deepens our ties and commitment to the UK market. Our Montreal-Edinburgh flights are designed to connect our customers across North America conveniently to Edinburgh with seamless travel through our Montréal hub.”

• Rocky Lo, Managing Director of International Sales, Air Canada:
  “We are thrilled to be taking to the skies with our latest transatlantic route from the Scottish capital to our home hub, Montréal, just in time for summer.”

• Dave Jones, British Consul-General in Montreal:
  “This connection will deepen ties between our communities and create fresh opportunities for partnership and discovery.”

• John Devine, Head of the Scottish Government in Canada:
  “I am delighted that Air Canada has opened a new route between Montreal and Edinburgh, adding to the roster of direct flights that now link Scotland and Canada – growing even further the economic benefits and friendship that exists between our countries.”

• Gordon Dewar, CEO, Edinburgh Airport:
  “This is a fantastic addition to our North America connectivity, and we are delighted that Air Canada is adding more options from Scotland’s busiest airport.”

How to Book and Travel on the New Route

Travelers interested in this new service can follow these steps:

1. Booking:
   Tickets are available on Air Canada’s official website, through travel agencies, or via partner airline platforms. It’s a good idea to compare prices and check for any special offers.

2. Check-in:
   Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure. Passengers can check in online or at the airport. Make sure to have your travel documents ready.

3. Baggage:
   Air Canada’s standard baggage policies apply. Check the airline’s website for details on baggage allowances based on your ticket type.

4. Travel:
   Flights depart from Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and arrive at Edinburgh Airport. Both airports offer connections to many other destinations, making it easy to continue your journey.

5. Entry Requirements:
   Travelers must meet the entry requirements for both Canada 🇨🇦 and the United Kingdom. This includes having a valid passport and, if needed, the right visa. For the most up-to-date information on entry requirements, visit the Government of Canada’s official travel page.

Who Benefits from the New Route?

This new nonstop service is good news for several groups:

• Leisure travelers:
  Tourists can now reach Scotland or Canada 🇨🇦 more easily, saving time and avoiding layovers.

• Business travelers:
  The direct connection makes it simpler for professionals to attend meetings, conferences, or explore new business opportunities.

• Families and friends:
  People with loved ones in either country can visit more often and with less hassle.

• Students:
  The route opens up new possibilities for students studying abroad or participating in exchange programs.

• Tourism and business sectors:
  More visitors mean more spending in hotels, restaurants, and attractions, boosting the local economy.

Impact on Airports and the Aviation Industry

The new route strengthens both Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and Edinburgh Airport as important international gateways. For Edinburgh Airport, this means expanding its North American connections to 11 destinations for the summer of 2025. This growth helps the airport attract more airlines and travelers, supporting jobs and investment in the region.

For Air Canada, the route is part of a broader strategy to make Montréal a key hub for transatlantic travel. By offering more direct flights to Europe, Air Canada can attract passengers from across North America who want to connect through Montréal.

Background: Air Canada’s History with Scotland

Air Canada has a long history of serving Scotland, with a popular Toronto–Edinburgh route that operates daily during the summer until October 25, 2025. The new Montréal–Edinburgh service is the first direct flight between these two cities, showing Air Canada’s commitment to growing its European network.

This move follows a trend among North American airlines to add more transatlantic flights as travel demand recovers after the COVID-19 pandemic. Strong ties between Canada 🇨🇦 and the United Kingdom make these routes especially attractive for both business and leisure travelers.

What Does the Future Hold?

The Montréal–Edinburgh route is currently scheduled as a summer-only service, running from June 26 to September 7, 2025. Whether it continues beyond this period will depend on how many people use the service and how well it performs during its first season.

If the route proves popular, Air Canada may consider extending the season, increasing the number of flights, or even making it a year-round service. This has happened before with the Toronto–Edinburgh route, which started as a seasonal service and later expanded.

Air Canada is also looking at other possible European destinations for future expansion, so travelers can expect even more options in the coming years.

Practical Tips for Travelers

If you’re planning to use the new Montréal–Edinburgh route, here are some tips to make your trip smoother:

• Book early:
  Summer flights can fill up quickly, especially on new routes. Booking early increases your chances of getting the best fares and preferred seats.

• Check entry requirements:
  Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your trip. Check if you need a visa for Canada 🇨🇦 or the United Kingdom. Entry rules can change, so always check official government websites before you travel.

• Arrive early at the airport:
  Give yourself plenty of time for check-in, security, and boarding, especially if you’re unfamiliar with either airport.

• Know your baggage allowance:
  Check Air Canada’s baggage policy to avoid extra fees or surprises at the airport.

• Stay informed:
  Flight schedules can change. Sign up for flight alerts and check your email for updates from Air Canada.

Official Resources and Contacts

• Air Canada Official Website:
  For bookings, schedules, and travel policies, visit aircanada.com.

• Edinburgh Airport Press Office:
  +44 7825 451158 (for media inquiries)

• Edinburgh Airport Communications:
  [email protected] (for non-media inquiries)

For the latest updates, travelers should check Air Canada’s website and Edinburgh Airport’s official channels.

Summary Table: Air Canada Montréal–Edinburgh Route

What This Means for Canada–Scotland Relations

The new route is more than just a flight; it’s a bridge between two vibrant regions. It supports tourism, business, education, and cultural exchange. As reported by VisaVerge.com, direct air links like this one play a key role in making travel easier and more affordable, which in turn helps people and businesses build stronger connections.

Leaders from both countries have praised the route for its potential to deepen economic and cultural ties. The Scottish Government, Canadian officials, and tourism boards all see the new service as a way to create new opportunities for partnership and discovery.

Looking Ahead: Will the Route Continue?

The future of the Montréal–Edinburgh route depends on how many people use it during the summer of 2025. If demand is strong, Air Canada may keep the service going or even expand it. This would be good news for travelers, businesses, and anyone with ties to Canada 🇨🇦 or Scotland.

For now, the route offers a new and convenient way to cross the Atlantic, making it easier for people to visit family, explore new places, or do business. It’s a sign of growing confidence in international travel and a reminder of the strong ties between Canada 🇨🇦 and the United Kingdom.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

If you’re planning a trip between Montréal and Edinburgh, now is a great time to take advantage of this new direct service. Book your tickets early, check the latest travel requirements, and get ready to enjoy a smoother, faster journey between two of the world’s most exciting cities.

For more information on travel requirements, visit the Government of Canada’s official travel page. For flight details and bookings, head to aircanada.com.

This new route is a welcome addition to Air Canada’s network and a promising development for travelers, businesses, and communities on both sides of the Atlantic.

Learn Today

Montréal-Trudeau International Airport → Canada’s major airport in Montréal, serving as the departure point for the new Edinburgh route.
Edinburgh Airport → Scotland’s principal airport, receiving Air Canada’s new nonstop flights from Montréal.
Boeing 737 MAX 8 → A modern, fuel-efficient aircraft seating 169 passengers used for the Montréal-Edinburgh direct service.
Premium Economy → A travel cabin class offering extra comfort and amenities above standard Economy on Air Canada flights.
Nonstop service → A direct flight route without scheduled stops or layovers between departure and arrival airports.

This Article in a Nutshell

Air Canada introduced its first nonstop Montréal to Edinburgh flights on June 26, 2025, operating thrice weekly. This Boeing 737 MAX 8 route enhances travel convenience, supporting tourism and business ties between Canada and Scotland during the busy summer season, with potential for future expansion.
— By VisaVerge.com