Airline will operate empty flights to Cuba to pick up and return customersMONTRÉAL, Feb. 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Air Canada said that effective today it is suspending its service to Cuba due to an ongoing shortage of aviation fuel on the island. Over the following days, the airline will operate empty flights southbound to pick up approximately 3,000 customers already at destination and return them home. Air Canada took the decision following advisories issued by governments (NOTAMs) regarding the unrel ...

MONTRÉAL, Feb. 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Air Canada Foundation has launched its Big Dreams Grant Program, which aims to empower organizations dedicated to improving the health and well-being of children and youth across Canada. With Team Canada going for gold at the 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in Milano-Cortina and inspiring young Canadians with their perseverance and drive, the Big Dreams Grant Program supports initiatives that use sport and active recreation as tools for confidence‑bui ...

Core Insights - The new loyalty program's target market remains unclear, with comparisons being made to existing programs like Air Canada's Aeroplan and the previous BonBon program [1][7] - The potential for a consumer-facing loyalty program could enhance engagement, similar to offerings from other airlines like WestJet and Porter [2] - The loyalty program is a fundamental aspect of Air Transat's business strategy, aimed at strengthening customer relationships and creating sustainable value [8] Financial Performance - Air Transat reported its first full-year profit since 2018, earning $241.9 million for the fiscal year, a significant turnaround from a $114 million loss in fiscal 2024 [9] Market Position - Air Transat primarily serves destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe, with limited U.S. destinations, as demand for flights to certain U.S. locations has decreased [10]

Core Insights - Air Canada has been recognized as one of Canada's Top Employers for Young People for the third consecutive year, highlighting its commitment to creating opportunities for the next generation [1][3] Group 1: Human Resources Initiatives - The company offers innovative HR programs, including language training, a buddy system for young professionals, and ongoing engagement events throughout the year [1][3] - Air Canada has invested in programs to develop cross-functional skills necessary for future leadership, aligning with its strategic growth phase known as New Frontiers [3] Group 2: Internship and Development Programs - Air Canada provides paid internship programs across various disciplines, welcoming over 100 interns in the past year to gain practical skills and work experience [4] - The Work Integrated Learning Program aims to expand the talent pool by offering work experience opportunities to post-secondary students from universities across Canada [4] Group 3: Additional Support for Young Professionals - Students have access to online training options to enhance second language skills and learn about diversity, equity, and inclusion, along with workshops on CV optimization and interview preparation [5] - The buddy system is designed to help young professionals integrate into the organization, complemented by networking events and career orientation sessions [6] Group 4: Evaluation Criteria for Awards - Employers were evaluated based on their programs to attract and retain younger workers, including benefits like tuition assistance, mentorship, and career management programs [7]

Core Message - Air Canada is launching a new campaign featuring Tyler McGregor, captain of Canada's Para ice hockey team, to inspire Canadians as the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games approach [1][3][4] Group 1: Campaign Overview - The campaign titled "Tyler's Walk" highlights McGregor's resilience and the challenges faced by Team Canada athletes in their pursuit of excellence [3][4] - Air Canada aims to inspire Canadians to believe in their potential despite obstacles, showcasing the dedication of its employees in supporting athletes [4][5] Group 2: Support for Athletes - Air Canada is committed to supporting over 750 athletes, coaches, and delegation members traveling to Italy, facilitated by the employee-driven "Going for Gold" program [5][6] - More than 10,000 Air Canada employees across 23 airports will coordinate travel and ensure the specialized handling of sports equipment and mobility devices for Team Canada [6] Group 3: Fan Engagement and Community Connection - As Team Canada prepares for the Games, Air Canada will host a send-off event at YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, featuring live entertainment and interactive experiences [8] - The airline will implement a nationwide content and fan engagement program, including digital campaigns and a national contest inspired by Team Air Canada Athlete Ambassadors [10][11]

Core Insights - Air Canada has launched a new brand campaign featuring Tyler McGregor, captain of Canada's Para ice hockey team, highlighting the resilience and dedication of Team Canada athletes as they prepare for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games [1][3][4] Group 1: Campaign Overview - The campaign titled "Tyler's Walk" emphasizes McGregor's journey and the challenges faced by athletes in pursuit of their dreams, aiming to inspire Canadians [3][4] - Air Canada expresses pride in supporting athletes through its employee-driven "Going for Gold" program, which assists over 750 athletes, coaches, and delegation members during their journey to Italy [5][6] Group 2: Operational Support - More than 10,000 Air Canada employees across 23 airports will coordinate athlete travel and manage specialized handling of sports equipment and mobility devices [6] - The airline has been the Official Airline of the Canadian Olympic Team since 1988 and the Canadian Paralympic Team since 2007, showcasing its long-standing commitment to supporting Canadian athletes [6] Group 3: Fan Engagement - Air Canada plans to enhance fan engagement through a nationwide content program featuring Team Air Canada Athlete Ambassadors, including digital campaigns and personal storytelling [10] - A national contest will be launched, inspired by the athletes' favorite destinations, offering fans opportunities to win trips related to the athletes' journeys [11]

Core Viewpoint - The proposed agreement between Air Canada and PAL Airlines aims to enhance regional connectivity in Eastern Canada by extending their existing partnership until 2032 and increasing the number of aircraft involved in the agreement [1][3]. Group 1: Agreement Details - The existing commercial agreement between Air Canada and PAL Airlines will be extended by four years to 2032 [1][3]. - The number of PAL Airlines aircraft covered by the agreement will increase from six to eleven, adding five additional Dash 8-400 aircraft [1][3]. Group 2: Company Statements - Air Canada emphasizes its commitment to regional connectivity, stating that the agreement will protect existing services from Montréal to destinations in Québec and New Brunswick while supporting the growth of its regional network [2]. - PAL Airlines expresses pride in expanding its agreement with Air Canada, highlighting the confidence this extension reflects in its operations and its commitment to regional connectivity [3]. Group 3: Company Backgrounds - Air Canada is the largest airline in Canada, providing scheduled service to over 180 airports globally and is a founding member of the Star Alliance [4]. - PAL Airlines, part of the Exchange Income Corporation, has over 40 years of experience in the aviation industry, known for safety, reliability, and exceptional customer service [5].

Core Insights - Air Canada's Aeroplan program is shifting to a revenue-based system for elite status starting January 1, 2026, moving away from traditional metrics like Status Qualifying Miles and Segments [1][3] Summary by Sections Aeroplan Program Changes - The new system will only utilize Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) as the metric for earning elite status, simplifying the process for cardholders [2][3] - Cardholders of the Aeroplan Credit Card issued by Chase can earn up to 25,000 SQCs annually, starting with a 5,000 SQC boost at the beginning of the year [4][5] Earning SQCs - SQCs are earned based on spending on Air Canada flights rather than distance traveled or class of service, with elite status holders receiving bonus multipliers that can increase earnings up to 6 times [3][4] - To achieve 25K status, cardholders need to spend $15,000 annually after an introductory period where they receive complimentary status [5][6] Spending Thresholds and Benefits - Additional SQCs can be earned through spending thresholds: 10,000 SQCs for $25,000 spent and another 10,000 for $50,000 spent in a calendar year [4][6] - Higher status levels, such as 35K, require $75,000 in annual spending, with further rewards unlocked at higher spending thresholds [6] Future Changes - The Elite Status Level Up benefit will be discontinued starting in 2027, although the introductory status perk remains a significant advantage for new cardholders [7][8]

Core Points - Air Canada has launched a new seasonal non-stop flight service from Toronto to Rio de Janeiro, operating three times a week until the end of March 2026 [1][7] - The new route aims to enhance international connectivity and provide Canadians with more opportunities to explore Brazil's culture and landscapes [3][8] - The introduction of this flight is expected to boost tourism and economic development in Rio de Janeiro, as Brazil is experiencing significant growth in international tourism [4][5][6] Company Overview - Air Canada is the largest airline in Canada and a founding member of Star Alliance, offering scheduled service to over 180 airports globally [10] - The airline operates the new Rio flights using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, providing various cabin classes and premium services for travelers [9] - Air Canada's Aeroplan program allows members to earn and redeem points across a wide network of airline partners and other services [10] Industry Insights - Brazil is currently the fastest-growing country in international tourism, attributed to its cultural richness and authentic experiences [4] - The new flight service is expected to increase the flow of visitors between Canada and Brazil, enhancing business opportunities and cultural exchange [6] - The expansion of Air Canada's route is seen as a significant step in strengthening Rio de Janeiro's position as a key destination for North American travelers [5][8]

Core Insights - Air Canada has launched a new seasonal non-stop flight service from Toronto to Rio de Janeiro, operating three times a week until the end of March 2026 [1][7] - The new route aims to enhance international connectivity and tourism opportunities between Canada and Brazil, reflecting Air Canada's commitment to expanding its global network [3][8] Company Developments - The introduction of the Toronto-Rio de Janeiro route is part of Air Canada's strategy to strengthen its presence in the North American market and increase tourism flow to Brazil [5][6] - Air Canada's flights to Rio de Janeiro will be operated using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, offering various cabin classes including Signature Class, Premium Economy, and Economy [9] Industry Context - Brazil is experiencing significant growth in international tourism, being recognized as the fastest-growing country in this sector for the year [4] - The new flight service is expected to boost the number of Canadian visitors to Rio de Janeiro, enhancing cultural and business exchanges between the two countries [6][8]