Canadians will be able to fly to the Martinique directly from Toronto for the first time with the launch of new Air Canada flights this winter to the French Caribbean island, complimenting existing service from Montreal.

The route represents the culmination of a long-term effort and vision advocated by the Tourism Commissioner, Bénédicte di Géronimo, according to the Martinique Tourist Authority,

“This connection between The Isle of Flowers and the Canadian economic capital reinforces the presence of Martinique in Canada, which is now our second most important market,” said di Géronimo, who acknowledged key partners in both places, including Club Med, MSC Cruises and The Martinique Aimé Césaire Airport Company (SAMAC).

“This is one more opportunity for our Canadian visitors to discover, taste and share the famous ‘joie de vivre’ that inspires us every day,” she added.

The non-stop, five-hour flight between YYZ and Fort-de-France will be aboard Airbus A220 aircraft with a capacity of 137 seats. Air Canada says it has optimized other routes to conveniently feed into the service.

“Martinique is a unique leisure destination renowned for its rich history and culture, outdoor activities and natural beauty,” said Alexandre Lefevre, VP, Network Planning – North America and Scheduling at Air Canada.

Martinique, an overseas department of France, is located in the Windward Islands directly north of Saint Lucia and is known for its abundant nature, Creole cuisine, unique heritage and welcoming French-Caribbean hospitality. The destination has enjoyed surging popularity with Canadian travellers, both due to its broad array of experiences and safe environment.

“We are delighted to offer our Canadian visitors the experience of an authentic, beautiful, and romantic Martinique. We await them with open arms and thank Air Canada for helping us realize the launch of this vital new route,” said Muriel Wiltord, Director of the Martinique Tourism Authority, Americas.