Porter Airlines Introduces Non-Stop Flights Connecting Ottawa and Victoria
Porter Airlines has taken a significant step in expanding its coast-to-coast Canadian network with the official launch of non-stop service between Ottawa International Airport (YOW) and Victoria International Airport (YYJ). This newly introduced route marks the only direct air link connecting Canada’s national capital with British Columbia’s provincial capital, offering travelers a convenient and elevated travel experience that is distinctly Porter.
The launch of this new service not only strengthens Porter’s strategic presence in both Eastern and Western Canada, but also enhances connectivity between two major centers of government, business, and tourism. The route provides a critical new bridge between the country’s political and cultural hubs and is expected to support growing demand for both leisure and business travel.
Flight Schedule and Aircraft Details
Initially, the Ottawa–Victoria service will operate with four weekly roundtrip flights. However, starting June 16, the frequency will increase to daily roundtrips, providing even greater flexibility and convenience for travelers. Flights are scheduled aboard Porter’s modern and fuel-efficient Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, which accommodates up to 132 passengers in a spacious two-by-two configuration. This setup eliminates the dreaded middle seat and provides a more comfortable and refined economy-class experience.
The current flight times for this new route are as follows:
Route Schedule (All Times Local):
- Ottawa to Victoria: Departs at 8:40 a.m., arrives at 11:00 a.m.
- Victoria to Ottawa: Departs at 11:55 a.m., arrives at 7:40 p.m.
With this schedule, travelers can enjoy same-day cross-country travel with minimal disruption to their day.
A Distinctly Porter Experience
Porter Airlines has built a reputation for offering a level of service that redefines economy travel in North America. With this new route, passengers can expect to enjoy Porter’s signature elevated economy offering. All guests receive complimentary beer and wine served in real glassware, premium Canadian snacks, and access to high-speed, free WiFi—features not typically found on competing carriers in the same fare class.
For those seeking an even more enhanced experience, Porter offers PorterReserve—an upgraded fare class that includes added perks such as:
- Fresh, healthy onboard meals
- Two checked bags
- Extra legroom seating
- Early boarding and priority airport services
Alternatively, travelers can select specific enhancements à la carte through the airline’s PorterClassic fare option, giving passengers the flexibility to tailor their travel experience according to their needs and budget.
Launch Celebrations and Promotions
To commemorate the inaugural launch, Porter Airlines collaborated with iconic hospitality partners—the Fairmont Empress in Victoria and the Fairmont Château Laurier in Ottawa. These renowned hotels, rich in heritage and architectural grandeur, represent the unique elegance of each city and serve as fitting ambassadors for this new inter-capital connection.
To further celebrate the occasion, special launch-day promotions are being held at both Ottawa and Victoria airports. Passengers traveling on the inaugural flights have the chance to win a future getaway package that includes:
- Two roundtrip tickets with Porter Airlines
- A two-night stay at either the Fairmont Empress or Fairmont Château Laurier, depending on the direction of travel
These exclusive offers are designed to highlight not only the ease of travel between the two cities, but also the premium experiences awaiting travelers at each destination.
Strategic Expansion and National Connectivity
The Ottawa–Victoria service is part of Porter’s broader strategy to strengthen its transcontinental network, offering more Canadians the ability to travel across the country with greater ease and comfort. Through its Ottawa hub, Porter enables seamless connections to several key Eastern Canadian cities, including:
- Halifax
- Charlottetown
- Fredericton
- St. John’s
This interconnected network allows passengers from Victoria to reach destinations across the Atlantic provinces through a single, efficient stop in Ottawa, improving national access and enhancing business and tourism opportunities.
Industry and Community Reception
The launch of the non-stop Ottawa–Victoria service has been met with strong support from aviation and tourism industry leaders, as well as from community stakeholders in both regions. Several key figures offered remarks highlighting the significance of this new connection:
“This route is a natural connection between two cities that share deep national significance and tourism appeal,” said Andrew Pierce, Vice President of Network Planning and Reporting at Porter Airlines. “We’re proud to be the only airline offering non-stop service between Ottawa and Victoria, providing travellers with a more efficient and enjoyable way to move across the country.”
Susan Margles, President and CEO of the Ottawa International Airport Authority, echoed this sentiment: “We are excited to welcome Porter’s non-stop service to Victoria, British Columbia, and another opportunity to connect Ottawa-Gatineau travellers with iconic Canadian destinations. Porter’s continued growth and investment at YOW confirms the importance of the Ottawa-Gatineau market and opens Canada’s west coast to passengers from the east with easy connections.”
At the other end of the route, Elizabeth Brown, President and CEO of the Victoria Airport Authority, emphasized the broader value of this new direct link: “Direct service between Victoria and Ottawa is a welcome new connection between two of Canada’s capital cities. From federal engagement to tourism and exploration, Porter Airlines’ new service offers convenience, efficiency, and a uniquely Canadian travel experience. We’re excited to welcome more visitors to Vancouver Island, and equally excited to make it easier for our community to explore the heart of our nation.”
Representing the tourism sector, Paul Nursey, CEO of Destination Greater Victoria, noted the broader economic benefits: “Destination Greater Victoria was delighted to partner and invest in the efforts to launch this service through its Air Route Development program. This connection will be fantastic to connect two great capital cities and very helpful in our efforts to continue to boost the meetings and conferences business along with tourism on the South Island as a whole.”