Air Canada made history with the inaugural flight from Vancouver International Airport to Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport on April 2, 2025, establishing the first direct route between Canada and the Philippines by a Canadian carrier. The momentous Flight AC 017, which embarked from Vancouver at 13:44 local time, is currently en route to the vibrant capital of the Philippines, scheduled to touch down at 06:20 local time on April 3, 2025, showcasing Air Canada’s commitment to enhancing connections across different continents.

The flight was flawlessly executed using Air Canada’s top-notch Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, equipped with three plush cabins: Signature Class boasting luxurious lie-flat seats, Premium Economy, and the comfortable Economy Class. The spark for this significant moment lit up Vancouver Airport with celebrations preceding the departure of Flight AC 017, extending the joy and enthusiasm till take-off. This new service, operating four times a week, is projected to inject a commendable CAD 33 million (US$23 million) into the economy, bridging the two nations with a bridge of opportunities for tourism and business.

Pilotcenter.net News catches up with Mark Galardo, Air Canada’s Executive Vice President of Revenue and Network Planning, to hear his thoughts on the milestone. “We are proud to be the only Canadian carrier facilitating travel to the Philippines, strengthening the enduring bond between our countries to offer a seamless travel experience for visits with family, conducting business, or simply vacationing. The direct air service serves the vital role of fostering tourism, trade, and connectivity, providing the quickest route to reach Manila,” said Galardo, beaming with pride at the airline’s accomplishment nestled amidst friendly relations.

The essence of this flight isn't just limited to commercial gains but extends to nurturing relationships within the community. Premier David Eby of British Columbia, sharing his insights, emphasizes the fruitful impact of the new route, enhancing the connection for over 170,000 Filipino Canadians residing in the province. “The introduction of the Vancouver-Manila route heralds a new era for strengthening ties with loved ones and boosting tourism and trade, which are integral to elevating our economy,” stated Eby, highlighting the invaluable opportunities this flight would bring to the region.

Look forward to the seamless schedules of the new flights, operating as follows: AC017 departing Vancouver at 01:55 local time, arriving in Manila (MNL) at 06:20 local time the next day (departure days: Mon, Wed, Fri in April, shifting to Tue, Thur, Fri, Sun from May 1, 2025); and AC018 departing Manila at 09:25 local time, touching down in Vancouver at 06:20 local time (departure days: Tue, Thur, Sat in April, transitioning to Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat effective May 2, 2025). Plan your travel, connect beyond borders, and find yourself amid new horizons with Air Canada’s groundbreaking service to Manila!