Air Canada to introduce non-stop flights from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in the Philippines
Travelling globally is becoming increasingly convenient as new airline routes are introduced regularly. Asia has become a popular destination for travellers, leading many to look for direct flight options. In response to this demand, Air Canada is set to launch a non-stop service between Vancouver and Manila in Spring 2025, enhancing business connections, trade opportunities, and tourism prospects.
Non-Stop Service Overview
Air Canada will launch non-stop flights between Vancouver and Manila starting April 2, 2025. The airline will operate this route four times a week. The route will connect Vancouver International Airport (YVR) with Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL). These flights will be available year-round, marking Air Canada’s 12th destination in Asia-Pacific and its first in the Philippines.
Manila Flight Schedule
Flight | From | To | Day of | Departure | Arrival | Effective |
AC17 | Vancouver | Manila | Mon, Wed, | 01:55 | 06:20+1 | April 2 – April |
AC18 | Manila (MNL) | Vancouver | Tues, | 09:25 | 06:20 | April 3 – May |
AC17 | Vancouver | Manila | Tues, | 01:55 | 06:20+1 | Effective May |
AC18 | Manila (MNL) | Vancouver | Mon, Wed, | 09:25 | 06:20 | Effective May |
* flights are subject to final government approvals
** flight schedules are subject to change
The flight distance is approximately 10,568 kilometers (5,706 miles). Flights from Vancouver to Manila will take about 13 hours and 25 minutes, while return flights will be around 11 hours and 55 minutes.
Air Canada will use the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, offering three cabins of service: Signature Class with lie-flat seats, Premium Economy, and Economy Class. Eligible customers have access to priority check-in, Maple Leaf Lounges, concierge services, priority boarding, and other exclusive perks.
Expansion of Air Canada’s Network
This expansion aligns with Air Canada’s objectives to enhance its international network. The airline is targeting large, fast-growing markets that are presently underserved.
The Vancouver-Manila route promises exceptional connectivity, enabling travellers to effortlessly access more than 50 destinations throughout North America through Air Canada’s YVR Pacific hub. With this addition, Air Canada will operate more than 180 weekly flights to the Pacific, highlighting its dedication to offering the most nonstop routes in the region.
Additionally, it enhances the already extensive transpacific network from Vancouver, which encompasses destinations such as Japan, South Korea, China, Hong Kong SAR, Thailand, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand, taking advantage of Vancouver’s position as the closest major North American city to Asia.
Tamara Vrooman, President and CEO at Vancouver International Airport (YVR), welcomed the news: “This new Manila service builds on their extensive Asia network from YVR, bringing family, friends and business together and providing travellers with more choice and connections. In addition, the launch of this 14-hour non-stop service will generate $46 million in economic value to our region.”
Ties between Canada and the fast-growing market of the Philippines
One of the main beneficiaries of this new route will be Canada’s vibrant Filipino community, which is the third-largest Asian demographic in the country. By improving access to the Philippines, Air Canada is addressing the needs of a community that shares deep connections with their homeland. The non-stop service between these two cultural hubs will not only facilitate personal connections but will also support economic and tourism opportunities, while strengthening Canada-Philippines diplomatic relations.
As B.C. Premier David Eby acknowledged, “B.C. is home to a significant Filipino Canadian community who make incredible contributions to our province and want to stay connected to friends and family overseas. A new direct route between Vancouver and Manila will make it faster and easier for people to travel between these two cities including for business and trade opportunities. This will strengthen cultural and economic ties between Canada and the Philippines.”
A Unique Canadian Carrier Advantage
Air Canada will be the sole Canadian airline offering direct service to the Philippines, a critical market in Asia that lacked direct service previously. The only other direct flights available are operated by Philippine Airlines. This strategic positioning allows Air Canada to stand out in the market, catering specifically to passengers seeking seamless travel to and from the Philippines.
“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,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President, Revenue and Network Planning, and President, Cargo at Air Canada. “With an extensive domestic and transborder network in Vancouver designed to connect seamlessly to our international flights, we are making travel between North America and the Philippines even more convenient for leisure and business travellers alike,” he added.