WestJet announces return to Glasgow Airport with launch of direct flights to Toronto

New route to take off in May 2026

WestJet, one of Canada’s largest airlines, has confirmed it is to return to Glasgow Airport in 2026 with the launch of direct services to Toronto.

The inaugural flight to Toronto Pearson International airport will take off on 15 May with WestJet operating four services per week using one of its growing fleet of Boeing 737 Max aircraft. It is the first time WestJet will have operated at Glasgow since 2022, with the new service further strengthening links between the economic powerhouses of Scotland and Canada.

The new Toronto route will not only provide fantastic access to the fifth largest city in North America, it will also provide further onward connectivity across Canada thanks to WestJet’s extensive network from Toronto.

Canada is one of Scotland’s largest international tourism markets with visitors spending £135 million in 2024 alone⃰ and with approximately 4.8 million Canadians claiming Scottish ancestry, the two countries have always enjoyed strong cultural and historic ties.

Matt Hazlewood, Chief Commercial Officer at AGS Airports, said: “We are thrilled to welcome WestJet back to Glasgow Airport with its direct Toronto service. Glasgow Airport has a close affinity with WestJet, due to the fact it was the first UK airport the airline ever operated from when it first touched down back in 2015.

“The airline’s decision to re-establish this route highlights its confidence in the Glasgow market and demonstrates the strong demand that clearly exists from both leisure and business passengers for transatlantic connectivity. It also underlines our commitment to delivering key routes and services for our passengers and with Glasgow playing host to the Commonwealth Games next year, the timing of this announcement couldn’t be better.”

Alex von Hoenbroech, WestJet Chief Executive Officer, said: “Bolstered by our growing fleet of MAX aircraft, WestJet is pleased to deliver a suite of new global destinations that are uniquely suited to our strategy. The MAX’s long-haul range can connect Eastern Canada to rich cultural destinations that guests want to travel to, and we are proud to be the airline that takes them there.

“Toronto Pearson International airport serves as a natural connector for international travel, and we look forward to the two-way travel opportunities that will come from one of WestJet’s biggest investments in the region.”

Councillor Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “This direct service to Toronto is more great news for Glasgow and for our standing as a global and connected city. Our links with Canada run deep, from the millions who claim Scots ancestry and their contribution to Glasgow’s tourism market to its continuing importance as a partner for trade and investment. Coming so soon after news of the resumption of direct flights between Glasgow and New York, we’ve a brilliant opportunity to raise this city’s profile across North America. So, well done to WestJet and to our partners at Glasgow Airport.”

Stuart Patrick, Chief Executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, added: “This new direct route to Toronto reflects the growing confidence airlines and travellers have in our city. Glasgow’s reputation as an international destination for business, tourism and culture continues to strengthen and enhanced global connectivity helps to build on that momentum. WestJet’s decision underscores the appeal of our city and we are confident the new route will deliver significant economic benefits and create fresh opportunities for businesses and visitors alike.”

WestJet’s announcement forms part of its largest investment in Eastern Canada to date, with Toronto Pearson serving as a major hub for international connectivity. The airline’s growing fleet of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft enables efficient long-haul operations, opening up new opportunities for two-way travel between Scotland and Canada.

For more information and to book flights, visit Flights and vacation packages | WestJet official site