Porter Airlines Launches New Routes Across Atlantic Canada
Porter Airlines continues its strategic growth and commitment to serving Canadian travelers with the launch of two new non-stop routes from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Deer Lake Regional Airport (YDF) in Newfoundland and Labrador, and Charlottetown Airport (YYG) in Prince Edward Island. These new flights are part of the airline’s summer schedule and are designed to enhance connectivity between Eastern and Western Canada, while offering passengers more flexibility, comfort, and travel options during the peak travel season.
The new Toronto-Deer Lake route officially launches today, offering three weekly round-trip flights. Meanwhile, the Toronto-Charlottetown route is scheduled to begin service on June 13, initially with four weekly round trips. The Charlottetown route will ramp up to daily service starting June 26. Both routes are seasonal and will conclude operations in early to mid-September, following the end of the high-demand summer period.
Detailed Flight Schedules
Porter Airlines has published the following schedules for its new Atlantic Canada services:
Toronto Pearson (YYZ) – Deer Lake (YDF):
- Departure from Toronto: 1:55 p.m.
- Arrival in Deer Lake: 6:05 p.m.
- Return from Deer Lake: 7:00 p.m.
- Arrival in Toronto: 8:36 p.m.
- Frequency: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
- Final day of operation: September 13
Toronto Pearson (YYZ) – Charlottetown (YYG):
- Departure from Toronto: 1:45 p.m.
- Arrival in Charlottetown: 4:55 p.m.
- Return from Charlottetown: 5:50 p.m.
- Arrival in Toronto: 7:15 p.m.
- Frequency: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays
- Daily service begins: June 26
- Final day of operation: September 14
Note: All departure and arrival times are local to the respective airport.
These new direct flights are expected to be a welcome addition for travelers looking to explore Canada’s Atlantic provinces or connect to destinations across North America. By using Toronto Pearson as a hub, travelers from Deer Lake and Charlottetown can seamlessly connect to cities across Canada and the United States.
Aircraft and Onboard Experience
Porter will operate both new routes using its state-of-the-art Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. Each aircraft seats 132 passengers in a two-by-two configuration, meaning there are no middle seats – a convenience that is quickly becoming one of the airline’s signature features. This spacious and modern jet offers a quieter and more comfortable ride compared to older regional aircraft.
In keeping with its commitment to elevated economy-class service, Porter provides all passengers with a premium in-flight experience. Travelers on these flights will enjoy complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, enabling them to stream, browse, and stay connected throughout their journey. Additionally, the airline offers complimentary beer and wine served in real glassware, as well as a selection of premium Canadian snacks. These perks are included for all passengers, helping distinguish Porter from other North American carriers in the regional travel space.
Enhancing Canadian Connectivity
The introduction of non-stop services to Deer Lake and Charlottetown from Toronto Pearson further strengthens Porter’s role as a connector of Canadian communities. With the airline now offering more direct options to underserved regions, passengers benefit from reduced travel time and increased convenience. The routes also open up new opportunities for tourism, family visits, and business travel in both directions.
Travelers headed to Deer Lake can use the town as a gateway to the majestic natural landscapes of western Newfoundland, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gros Morne National Park. Known for its dramatic fjords, ancient geological features, and extensive hiking trails, Gros Morne is one of Canada’s most celebrated natural destinations. Deer Lake itself also offers scenic lakeside relaxation, local culture, and easy access to the rugged beauty of the Great Northern Peninsula.
Those flying to Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island’s capital city, will discover a rich tapestry of Canadian heritage. As the “Birthplace of Confederation,” Charlottetown features stunning Victorian architecture, vibrant waterfront areas, historic landmarks, and a thriving arts and food scene. Summer is an ideal time to visit, as the island hosts numerous festivals, outdoor concerts, and farmers’ markets. Whether it’s exploring local seafood cuisine, taking a stroll through Victoria Park, or relaxing on PEI’s famous red-sand beaches, the island offers a wide range of experiences for all types of travelers.
Strategic Expansion and Complementary Services
Porter’s expansion from Toronto Pearson continues to build on its growing national footprint. The airline has strategically positioned Pearson as a vital hub for connecting Eastern and Western Canada. These new routes complement existing seasonal service between Deer Lake and Halifax, and the year-round service between Ottawa and Charlottetown.
Connections through Toronto Pearson open up travel opportunities not only across Canada but also to select destinations in the United States. Porter’s network now includes major cities such as Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Los Angeles. This makes it easier than ever for residents of Atlantic Canada to access other parts of the continent with minimal hassle and fewer layovers.
The airline also continues to operate regional turboprop service with its 78-seat De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft, which remains an essential part of its operations in shorter-haul markets. These aircraft are primarily used for flights across Ontario, Quebec, and Eastern Canada, including Halifax, Moncton, and Saint John.
Porter Airlines has made significant investments in expanding both its fleet and its route network over the past two years. The addition of Embraer E195-E2 aircraft has enabled the airline to offer longer-range, fuel-efficient service to more destinations without compromising its unique onboard service model.
As the 2025 summer travel season approaches its peak, Porter’s latest announcements reflect growing demand for domestic travel, particularly to and from Atlantic Canada. The airline has signaled that it will continue evaluating opportunities to expand its seasonal services and potentially convert some routes to year-round operations depending on passenger uptake and market conditions.
These developments are part of Porter’s broader goal of redefining the economy travel experience across North America. By continuing to add premium services without added cost, the airline is positioning itself as a compelling alternative to legacy carriers and low-cost competitors alike.
With the launch of non-stop summer service between Toronto Pearson and both Deer Lake and Charlottetown, Porter Airlines is offering travelers new, comfortable, and convenient ways to explore the beauty and diversity of Atlantic Canada. These routes not only meet seasonal demand but also enhance year-round connectivity across the country, solidifying Porter’s reputation as a customer-focused airline committed to thoughtful expansion and high-quality service.
Whether travelers are planning an outdoor adventure in Newfoundland, a relaxing island escape in Prince Edward Island, or a cultural exploration in Toronto, these new flights provide a welcome boost to Canada’s domestic travel infrastructure – just in time for summer.