In operation for nearly 20 years, Porter Airlines has seen and been through many ups and downs, coming out of it all stronger and better. But there are three particular moments since its launch in 2006 that have helped define Porter as an airline and permanently altered its course to where it is today – in the midst of an expansion boom. In this week’s Take 5, we asked Michael Curmi, Managing Director, Sales & Distribution, what those defining moments are, and how travel advisors have played a central role in the airline’s success.
- At a time when other airlines may be cutting capacity to the U.S. due to decreased demand, Porter is said to be increasing its presence in the Canada-U.S. market by 25% over last summer. Why?
“We’re in growth mode as an airline and we’ve increased capacity in Canadian and U.S. markets year-over-year. Overall, passenger numbers are growing and outpacing capacity increases, including in the U.S. We have shifted some capacity to domestic routes to account for current travel demand. This is something that airlines constantly do and we’re continuing to closely watch how this develops.”
- We’re seeing major expansion with Porter’s domestic routes. Are you seeing an increase in demand, particularly now amid tariff tensions with the U.S.? And where in particular are you seeing the most demand?
“Eighty percent of total network capacity during the summer peak period is now dedicated to domestic flights (up from the 75% previously planned). Our goal is to fly where our customers want to travel, and this is a moment when Canada is at the top of many people’s list. We are adding routes and increasing flights in regions across Canada to meet this demand. As we move into the summer season, destinations such as Calgary, Vancouver and Victoria are booking well, as is our newest Western Canada destination Kelowna. The East Coast is also popular, with destinations such as Halifax, Deer Lake, St. John’s and PEI. Our hubs in Toronto and Ottawa provide numerous options and connecting points.”
- What new routes are you excited about?
“We have a number of new routes and destinations launching this spring, including significant air service from Hamilton to Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary and Halifax beginning in June. Hamiltonians have long deserved a commitment such as what Porter is making, with four routes connecting them across the country.
“Travellers can also explore all that Hamilton has to offer, including natural attractions and easy access to the Niagara region.
“Additionally, we’re thrilled to begin service from Toronto Pearson to Kelowna for the first time. The early response from the market has been very encouraging, and we’re looking forward to building on that momentum.”
- Looking back over the years, which moments would you say either defined the airline or altered its course to where it is today?
“Porter’s story has always been about redefining what’s expected from air travel. Launched in 2006 from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, Porter established itself as a different kind of airline, one that prioritized speed, convenience and service. Our downtown airport location, combined with complimentary inflight service and an elevated travel experience, immediately set us apart.
“Porter temporarily suspended operations in March 2020, due to the ongoing government travel restrictions related to COVID. We were the only airline in Canada to fully suspend operations for an extended period. We didn’t know how long it would last at the time, but service restarted in September 2021 – 18 months later. In hindsight, it was the best decision we could have made to position the company for long-term success, ensuring stability for our team members and customers. It also created the opportunity for our current growth plan with the Embraer E195-E2s to formulate and become a reality.
“Our expansion with the E195-E2 aircraft and entry into new markets across North America has been transformational. In just two years, we’ve become a national airline, the third-largest airline operating flights to the U.S. and Canada at Toronto Pearson International Airport, and the largest airline operating out of Ottawa in terms of flights. We fly to every province in Canada and continue to expand further across the continent. We’re proud of how far we’ve come, and we’re excited about what lies ahead.”
- May is Travel Advisor Appreciation Month. How do travel advisors factor into Porter’s story, and how does the airline continue to support them?
“Travel advisors have always played a central role in our growth and success. From our earliest days, they’ve been trusted partners and brand ambassadors, helping travellers discover and choose the Porter experience. They bring unmatched insight and expertise to travellers, and their support has been critical in connecting Porter to new markets, especially as we expand our network across North America.
“We remain committed to supporting travel advisors through continued investment in training, sales account management and expanding telephone and personalized service through our dedicated agency support teams, making it easier to do business with us.
“This month, and every month, we celebrate travel advisors for their partnership, their professionalism, and their continued role in Porter’s journey.”
For more information, go to www.flyporter.com.
