TORONTO — True partners stick together no matter what.

“This year has had its share of challenges. And through every challenge you’ve shown resilience and unwavering loyalty,” Vincent Gauthier-Doré, Air Canada’s Managing Director, Canada & USA Sales, told Air Canada’s top partners at the Circle of Excellence Platinum Tier reception.

Gauthier-Doré led the applause for Air Canada’s highest-producing travel agency partners at last night’s event, held at Fairmont Royal York Toronto.

It was a stylish venue for fêting Air Canada’s best of the best. “Toronto is one of Air Canada’s top global hubs … there’s no better place to celebrate excellence in travel,” said Gauthier-Doré.

No fewer than 47 outstanding travel partners were honoured last night at the 2025 Circle of Excellence Platinum gathering, hosted by the Air Canada sales team and organized by Jamie Fox,  Sr. Manager, Regional Sales.

“It’s not just about numbers and status. It’s about your performance,” said Gauthier-Doré. “You’ve continued to believe in us and that means everything.”

He added: “You’re not just travel agency partners, you’re part of the Air Canada family. Your success is our success. Thank you for your excellence, your partnership and your belief in Air Canada. We are your proud partners.”

Travelweek caught up with Brian Robertson, President, Canada for Direct Travel, at the event. Direct Travel has been part of the Circle of Excellence Platinum Tier consistently, for decades, said Robertson.

What does Robertson himself appreciate most about Canada’s flag carrier? “Air Canada’s inflight service is excellent, and as an Aeroplan Elite Member, so are the recognition and benefits,” he told Travelweek.