Ask a business traveller what they hate most, and they’ll likely say the security line, the airport commute or, worst of all, the dead zone between takeoff and landing. Air Canada’s recently announced routes and upgrades at Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ) are solving all three, steadily making Toronto’s downtown airport one of the city’s most efficient gateways for professionals, especially those moving between Toronto and major North American hubs.

Billy Bishop Airport has long been known for its convenience: a fast check-in experience, quick security and the rare luxury of walking to your gate from your Bay Street office or skipping the DVP entirely. Now Air Canada is deepening its presence at the airport, investing in expanded service, better onboard amenities and new ways for travellers to work, recharge or simply move between cities with less friction.

Connecting Toronto to North America’s most important business hubs

The biggest shift is a significant expansion of Air Canada’s routes out of YTZ. Starting in early 2026, travellers can fly directly to several key U.S. cities—New York, Washington, Boston and Chicago—from the heart of downtown Toronto. These additions join increased domestic service to Ottawa and Montreal, creating a stronger network for professionals who regularly split their time between Toronto and other centres of commerce. For travellers, this means quicker access to the meetings, conferences and partnerships that matter. It also positions Air Canada as an increasingly strategic choice to travel between Toronto and some of North America’s most influential markets through YTZ, helping to strengthen the city’s stance as Canada’s top international business hub.

Leading the industry in connectivity and comfort

Alongside the expanded routes, Air Canada has introduced upgrades that focus on comfort and connectivity, two essentials for today’s business traveller. The airline’s refreshed Q400 aircraft interiors offer a cleaner, more modern environment, making short-haul flights feel more polished and comfortable.

The airline has also introduced complimentary Wi-Fi, the first of its kind offered on this aircraft type, allowing travellers to stay connected throughout their flight to Ottawa, Montreal or the new U.S. destinations. For anyone who relies on travel time as working time, that connectivity is a game-changing upgrade that ensures business no longer has to remain paused while flying. Travellers will also find complimentary beer, wine and Canadian-made snacks on board. These added touches help make the trip feel easier, especially on quick hops to and from major meetings.

A more productive pre-flight experience

Billy Bishop Airport’s compact layout has always been one of its biggest advantages, but Air Canada’s offerings now extend well beyond the gate. Eligible domestic customers also have access to the Aspire | Air Canada Café, a lounge designed for productivity and calm before takeoff. Whether it’s catching up on emails, reviewing a presentation or simply taking a moment to regroup, the café provides a comfortable space with food, drinks and flexible seating. Compared to working at a busy gate, it’s a quieter, more efficient environment.

Supporting Toronto’s growth as a business hub

The changes at Billy Bishop Airport reflect something bigger: a continued investment in Toronto as a global commerce centre. Air Canada’s expanded presence strengthens the city’s connections to key financial, political and innovation markets, supporting the needs of travellers who rely on fast, reliable short-haul flights. This expansion also reflects ongoing collaborative efforts between Air Canada, the Toronto Port Authority—owner and operator of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport—and Nieuport Aviation—owner and operator of the passenger terminal at Billy Bishop Airport—helping ensure that Billy Bishop Airport continues to evolve as an important gateway for business, culture and cross-border exchange.

Why the expansion matters now

For many local professionals, the ability to fly to and from downtown Toronto while staying online the entire way represents a meaningful shift in how business travel can function. By expanding routes to major cities, improving in-flight features and providing lounge access for enhanced productivity, Air Canada is contributing to a smoother, more efficient flying experience for business travellers. And for travellers visiting Toronto, the improvements reinforce the city’s rising status as a place where business, culture and innovation intersect. With more ways to reach the downtown core, and more ways to connect onward, Air Canada is solidifying its position as the preferred choice for hassle-free business travel.

Air Canada’s expanded service from Billy Bishop Airport will be available as of early 2026. To explore routes, amenities and travel options, visit aircanada.com.