Ottawa recently revealed a plan to enhance the number of direct flights connecting Canada and China for passengers and cargo transportation. Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon announced a gradual increase in flight operations between the two countries following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s diplomatic visit to Beijing earlier this year.
Both Canadian and Chinese airlines will have the opportunity to expand direct passenger flights and conduct up to 20 cargo flights weekly, offering reciprocal access to various destinations in both nations. This move aims to boost trade diversity and tourism, aligning with Canada’s goal of elevating exports to China by 50% by the year 2030.
The aviation frequency between Canada and China had been slow to recover post the COVID-19 pandemic, causing inconvenience to Canadian businesses due to expensive flights and prolonged layovers. Efforts to restore direct flights were hindered in part by Canada’s stance against flight routes passing over Russian airspace, as part of Ottawa’s strategy to discourage airlines from incurring fees amid Russia’s conflict with Ukraine.