Citing “highly complementary” route networks, Air Transat and Porter Airlines are creating a joint venture “alliance” that the companies say will transform the current Canadian aviation competitive landscape. To be implemented gradually in 2024, the arrangement will extend the airlines’ existing code-sharing agreement to give travellers access to a broader network through enhanced commercial collaboration and optimization.
Enhanced travel options will extend across multiple regions and expands services between North, Central and South America, Europe, North Africa, Mexico, and the Caribbean by integrating the carriers’ non-overlapping networks at Toronto Pearson (YYZ) and Montreal Trudeau (YUL) airports.
The feeder network strategy is designed to facilitate the acceleration of both airlines’ expansion in their respective markets: domestic and transborder short- and medium-haul for Porter, and international medium- and long-haul for Air Transat. It will also foster stronger network optimization through collaboration on scheduling and route planning.
“This historic agreement constitutes a significant step forward in executing Transat’s strategic plan and an important milestone in developing a more sustainable competitive network,” says Transat President and CEO Annick Guérard.
“We are delighted to further extend our collaboration with Porter, a partner that shares our customer-centric approach and values. Through this Alliance, we will accelerate the expansion of our transatlantic footprint by allowing us to leverage the domestic market served by Porter, while allowing for a more efficient use of our fleet.”
Porter President and CEO Michael Deluce added, “Porter is in the midst of disrupting the North American market through a significant continental expansion that will only be amplified by this Alliance. The flow of passengers on both carriers means that Porter will be able to develop a more robust network by increasing flight frequency on key domestic and transborder routes, and entering into new markets with less point-to-point traffic. As we continue receiving deliveries of up to 100 new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, our options for deploying this fleet are even greater based on this collaboration with Air Transat.”
The alliance is an evolution of the current codeshare agreement between Air Transat and Porter, which has been active since October 2022.
Air Transat brings its experience in leisure travel, serving over 60 international destinations, and its 35-year presence in the Quebec and Ontario markets, while Porter contributes its 17 years of expertise in facilitating air travel within Eastern Canada and the US with a growing coast-to-coast presence within North America.