Air Canada Expands Long-Haul Network with 79 Nonstop Routes in 2025

Air Canada is set to enhance its long-haul offerings in 2025 with the operation of 79 nonstop routes utilizing its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner fleet. This expansion will connect Canada to destinations across Asia and South America, showcasing the aircraft’s significant capacity for long-distance travel. The 787-8 serves as a crucial asset for the airline, enabling connections that previously required layovers.

The Dreamliner is renowned for its efficiency and range, making it ideal for these extended routes. In particular, Air Canada’s 787-8 is scheduled to operate some of its longest flights, with several routes exceeding **5,700 nautical miles** (10,600 kilometers).

Key Long-Haul Routes for 2025

The majority of Air Canada’s longest nonstop flights will originate from **Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)**, the airline’s largest hub. Among the noteworthy routes, the flight to **Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX)** stands out as the longest, covering **5,753 nautical miles** (10,661 kilometers) and taking approximately **13 hours and 15 minutes**.

Following closely is the route from Toronto to **Seoul Incheon (ICN)** at **5,740 nautical miles** (10,642 kilometers), and the historic connection to **Tokyo Narita (NRT)** at **5,571 nautical miles** (10,326 kilometers). These services strengthen Air Canada’s competitive foothold in critical Asian markets.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) will also feature significant long-haul operations, including flights to **Hong Kong** and **Shanghai Pudong**, measuring **5,552 nautical miles** (10,293 kilometers) and **4,879 nautical miles** (9,038 kilometers), respectively. Flights to **São Paulo** from both Toronto and Montreal further illustrate the airline’s reach into South America, with distances exceeding **4,300 nautical miles** (7,964 kilometers).

Air Canada strategically deploys the 787-8 not only on high-capacity routes but also on ‘long-and-thin’ markets. These routes require substantial range but lack the passenger demand needed to justify larger aircraft like the Boeing 777. With a configuration of **255 seats**, the 787-8 effectively balances efficiency and comfort, making it well-suited for these vital connections.

The Longest Nonstop Flights in Detail

The ten longest 787-8 routes in Air Canada’s 2025 schedule highlight the aircraft’s ability to link Canada with distant corners of the globe. These routes are not only crucial for passenger convenience but also demonstrate the operational capability of the airline.

According to data from **Cirium**, three of the top five longest routes connect Toronto and Vancouver directly to major Asian hubs, while two routes link Canada to significant cities in South America. The following table outlines the ten longest routes:

| Rank | Origin | Destination | Distance (NM/km) | Approx. Duration |
|——|——–|————-|——————-|——————-|
| 1 | YYZ | KIX | 5,753/10,661 | ~13h 15m |
| 2 | YYZ | ICN | 5,740/10,642 | ~13h 10m |
| 3 | YYZ | NRT | 5,571/10,326 | ~12h 40m |
| 4 | YVR | HKG | 5,552/10,293 | ~12h 30m |
| 5 | YVR | PVG | 4,879/9,038 | ~11h 10m |
| 6 | YVR | ICN | 4,438/8,218 | ~10h 30m |
| 7 | YYZ | GRU | 4,406/8,169 | ~10h 45m |
| 8 | YUL | GRU | 4,377/8,115 | ~10h 40m |
| 9 | YVR | PEK | 4,345/8,047 | ~10h |
| 10 | YYZ | SCL | 4,258/7,886 | ~10h 20m |

Travelers can now embark on nonstop flights from Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, arriving in cities such as Osaka, São Paulo, or Hong Kong without the inconvenience of layovers.

The 787-8’s advantages go beyond mere range. Built for efficiency, the aircraft features a composite airframe, advanced engines, and optimized wings that reduce fuel consumption by up to **25%** compared to older models. This not only lowers operational costs but also aligns with increasing environmental concerns.

Operationally, managing ultra-long flights requires meticulous planning. Crew rotations, in-flight services, and fuel load calculations are critical to ensure safety and comfort throughout the journey. For instance, the Toronto–Osaka route typically involves a crew of four pilots and additional cabin staff to maintain service quality over the long duration.

Air Canada’s investment in the 787-8 has transformed the passenger experience. The aircraft features a cabin designed for comfort, with higher humidity levels and lower altitude pressure that help reduce fatigue. The modern cabin layout includes larger windows, advanced air filtration systems, and personal entertainment options, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Looking ahead, Air Canada is poised to expand its long-haul network further. With new widebody aircraft expected by **2026**, the airline plans to redeploy some 787-8s to secondary markets while larger models will cater to high-demand routes. This evolution will facilitate even longer nonstop flights and direct connections to more destinations across Asia, the Middle East, and South America.

In summary, Air Canada’s 2025 strategy underscores its commitment to providing efficient and comfortable travel options, linking Canada to the world in a seamless manner. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner plays a pivotal role in this ambitious expansion, paving the way for the airline’s future as a key player in global aviation.