Monday, May 19, 2025
Air Canada has officially expanded its European reach with the launch of a brand-new international route connecting Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) to Naples International Airport (NAP) in southern Italy. This exciting new service, which began today, marks the airline’s first-ever direct connection to Naples and further strengthens Canada’s aviation ties to Italy.
Operating four times per week through October 25, this seasonal route offers Canadian travelers a seamless way to explore the rich cultural, culinary, and coastal delights of southern Italy. The service is operated using the carrier’s advanced Boeing 787 Dreamliner, offering passengers a choice of Economy, Premium Economy, and the luxurious Air Canada Signature Class.
According to Mark Galardo, Air Canada’s Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer (and President of Cargo), the new route highlights the airline’s strategy to grow its transatlantic offerings from its Montreal hub, while giving travelers easier access to southern Italy’s most picturesque destinations.
“We are thrilled to inaugurate new, nonstop service between Canada and Naples, a scenic new destination in Air Canada’s global network and our fourth in the Italian market,” Galardo said. “With the beauty of the Amalfi Coast or the ruins of Pompeii not far away, this new service from our growing transatlantic hub in Montréal will make it even easier for our customers to explore all that Naples and southern Italy has to offer.”
Why This Route Matters
Air Canada’s entry into Naples opens doors to a region long coveted by tourists but historically underserved by direct transatlantic flights from North America. Naples serves as the gateway to Campania, an area renowned for its Mediterranean coastline, archaeological treasures, and authentic Italian cuisine.
The new Montreal–Naples route complements Air Canada’s existing nonstop flights to Rome (FCO), Milan (MXP), and Venice (VCE), bringing the total number of Canadian gateways to Italy to four. It also underscores Montréal-Trudeau Airport’s growing status as a strategic hub for transatlantic and southern European travel.
Route Details: Montreal (YUL) to Naples (NAP)Start Date: May 19, 2025End Date: October 25, 2025Frequency: 4x weeklyAircraft: Boeing 787 DreamlinerCabin Classes: Economy, Premium Economy, Air Canada Signature Class
This premium long-haul experience includes lie-flat seats in Signature Class, enhanced dining, personal in-flight entertainment, and complimentary Wi-Fi for Aeroplan members on select flights — part of Air Canada’s growing onboard digital service offerings.
A Win for Canadian and Italian Tourism
The launch is also expected to boost tourism between Canada and southern Italy, a region not previously linked via direct flights from Montreal. As Canadian travelers increasingly seek leisure-focused international experiences, this move is well-timed to capitalize on the high summer and fall demand for travel to Italy’s southern coastlines and historic cities.
The route also offers inbound opportunities, with Italian travelers gaining direct access to Quebec’s vibrant capital, Montréal, known for its French heritage, culinary scene, and festivals. The move could strengthen bilateral tourism and enhance trade and cultural connections between the two nations.
Why Naples?
As one of Italy’s oldest cities, Naples offers a rare blend of history, art, and vibrant urban life. It serves as the base for excursions to:
The Amalfi Coast – from Positano to RavelloPompeii and Herculaneum – iconic archaeological sitesCapri and Ischia – islands famous for natural beauty and luxuryMount Vesuvius – the only active volcano in mainland Europe
Its proximity to so many UNESCO World Heritage Sites makes Naples an ideal hub for destination-rich travel itineraries.
Strategic Growth from Montreal
This new route supports Air Canada’s transatlantic growth strategy and reinforces Montreal’s role as a preferred departure point for eastern Canadian and northeastern U.S. travelers headed to Europe.
Air Canada continues to invest in seasonal and year-round routes that meet strong demand, especially in leisure travel markets like southern Europe. The addition of Naples reflects a broader trend in aviation where airlines are adding service to secondary European cities that offer high traveler appeal but less airlift competition.
More from Air Canada This Year
Air Canada’s 2025 strategy includes:
Expanded service to Latin America and the Caribbean during winterEnhanced in-flight connectivity via free Wi-Fi for Aeroplan loyalty membersNew executive leadership appointments and operational realignmentsContinued upgrades to premium cabin services across international routes Book Early for Best Availability
With limited frequencies and high demand expected during peak travel months, travelers should book early to secure preferred seats and pricing. Aeroplan members can also redeem points for this route.
The Naples route joins a growing list of direct European destinations available from Canada, and it offers one of the most scenic arrival experiences for passengers seeking the charm of southern Italy.