More Canadian airports to open to international flights on Nov. 30

Reports suggest that international students face numerous hurdles in returning to Canada, from getting flights to Canada  to visa-related issues. Canada, however, is reopening more airports to international flights from November 30. In a statement, Transport Canada said it is easing the restriction on international flights to Canada as a next step in increasing travel opportunities.

Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra said, “Increased vaccination levels have allowed us to safely reopen these additional Canadian airports to international passenger flights to Canada. This measure will help ensure that travellers are able to access more regional airports for their international travels this winter, while continuing to support the Government of Canada’s measured approach to reopening our border.”

Source: Daniel Slim/AFP

More international flights to Canada

Returning to Canada would be made easier with the expansion of Canadian airports receiving international flights. On November 30, 2021, international flights carrying passengers will be permitted to land at the following additional Canadian airports:

• St. John’s International
• John C. Munro Hamilton International
• Region of Waterloo International
• Regina International
• Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International
• Kelowna International
• Abbotsford International
• Victoria International

The 10 Canadian airports currently accepting international flights include:

• Halifax Stanfield International
• Québec City Jean Lesage International
• Montréal-Trudeau International
• Ottawa/Macdonald–Cartier International
• Toronto Pearson International
• Billy Bishop Toronto City Centre
• Winnipeg James/Armstrong Richardson International
• Edmonton International
• Calgary International
• Vancouver International

Transport Canada said more airports could start welcoming international travel, based on the recommendations from the Public Health Agency of Canada. Consideration will be given to adding additional airports as conditions dictate, based on demand, operational capacity, the epidemiological situation in Canada.

Border restrictions and public health measures remain subject to change depending on the COVID-19 situation in the country, warned the department. “The Government of Canada continues to work closely with airports and aviation operators to ensure appropriate procedures are put in place to protect travellers and workers,” it said. “Border and public health measures remain subject to change as the epidemiological situation evolves.”