Victoria continues to solidify its reputation as an accessible, welcoming destination through significant developments in its air service network. The city’s expanding flight connectivity is making it easier than ever for travellers and travel professionals to reach British Columbia’s capital, enhancing the destination’s appeal for both business and leisure visitors.
Record-Breaking Air Service and Growing Demand
Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is experiencing historic growth in air service, reflecting robust demand from across North America. The airport welcomed 31 direct flights in summer 2024, a new record for the region. This momentum is set to continue through 2025, with the introduction of additional routes, increased frequencies, and new airline partners.
Expanded Canadian Connectivity with Porter Airlines
Among the newest highlights, Porter Airlines is expanding its reach to Victoria. Beginning May 15, 2025, Porter has launched direct summer service between Ottawa International Airport (YOW) and Victoria International Airport. Travellers can enjoy up to seven weekly roundtrip flights during the peak summer months, providing a seamless connection between Canada’s capital and British Columbia’s capital. This follows Porter’s September 2023 introduction of direct service between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Victoria, utilizing their state-of-the-art Embraer E195-E2 aircraft.
Porter’s growth story brings more options and convenience for travellers from Eastern Canada, and supports increased tourism and business opportunities on both sides of the country.
Enhanced U.S. Access with Kenmore Air
Victoria’s international connections are also strengthening. Kenmore Air, long known for its floatplane services, recently expanded its offerings with a new seasonal route between Tacoma’s Ruston Way and Victoria’s Inner Harbour. This daily service, ran from May 15 to September 15, 2025, enabling South Sound residents the fastest and most scenic route to Victoria’s picturesque downtown waterfront. Additionally, Kenmore Air continues to operate established routes from Seattle, Tacoma, and the San Juan Islands, connecting key Pacific Northwest markets directly with Victoria.
Seair Seaplanes: New Daily Service to Victoria
Further strengthening Victoria’s connectivity, Seair Seaplanes is expanding its renowned floatplane service. Beginning spring 2025, Seair will offer daily scheduled flights connecting downtown Vancouver and Richmond (YVR South Terminal) directly to Victoria’s Inner Harbour. This expansion will include regularly scheduled flights that started on April 1, 2025, with up to seven departures daily during the busy summer season. Seair’s new routes offer travelers unparalleled convenience, direct downtown access, shortened travel times, and stunning aerial views; all aboard modern, comfortable de Havilland aircraft. The addition of these routes underscores Seair’s commitment to efficient and scenic travel between Vancouver Island and the lower mainland, further supporting business, tourism, and local connections.
Extended Network to Major Cities
Victoria’s robust route map features direct flights from major Canadian cities such as Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Toronto, Vancouver, and Winnipeg, catering to a broad range of travelers. Existing connections from Seattle and San Francisco also give international guests swift access to British Columbia’s coastal gem. Airlines including Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, Flair, Swoop, WestJet, and Pacific Coastal play key roles in supporting these routes, allowing for a flexible and competitive travel landscape for both visitors and local residents.
A Gateway for Leisure and Business
These onboarding improvements underscore Victoria’s commitment to seamless travel experiences, ultimately benefiting the region’s tourism businesses, conference sector, and year-round leisure market. With new direct service options, increased frequencies, and growing airline interest, Victoria is more connected, accessible, and ready to welcome the world than ever before.
For more information about Victoria’s air connectivity and travel planning resources, visit Destination Greater Victoria.
