Direct flights from Canada to Albania? Credit Air Transat for tapping into the Balkan country’s growing reputation among savvy travellers as an up-and-coming travel destination that is off the mainstream track in Europe but not lacking in amenities or charm.
The airline will launch weekly, non-stop Airbus A330 service between Toronto and the capital, Tirana, on June 18, reflecting the carrier’s diverse Summer 2026 program, and giving Canadians a direct gateway to the Balkans.
“Albania is fast becoming a standout destination on the European travel map, and we are proud to be the first airline to serve it directly from North America,” said Sebastian Ponce, Transat’s Chief Revenue Officer.
He added, “With nine new routes, the annualization of several services and increased frequencies on our flagship routes, our Summer 2026 program is the most extensive we have ever offered. It is part of a network strategy designed to maximize fleet utilization, support steady and profitable growth, and diversify our revenue streams, all the while giving our travellers more choice, flexibility and access to inspiring new destinations.”
In addition to the introduction of Tirana, Air Transat will roll out a significantly enhanced Summer 2026 program, marked by the launch of new routes, the conversion of several seasonal services to year-round operations, and increased frequencies on strategic routes.
Nantes, France
That includes new non-stop service to Nantes (NTE) for Summer 2026. This route will be operated once weekly on Tuesdays from June 2 to Oct. 20 using an Airbus A321LR.
This addition is part of a substantial reinforcement of Air Transat’s offering from Québec City, including an additional frequency to Paris (CDG), bringing the service to up to six weekly flights at the height of the season; the launch of the new Quebec City-Marseille (MRS) route as of Summer 2026; and the annualization of the Quebec City-Fort-de-France (FDF) service, whose inaugural flight took place on Dec. 14.
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