TORONTO — Antigua and Barbuda is expanding its summer airlift from Canada, offering travellers greater flexibility and access to the destination’s peak season of cultural events.
For July and August 2026, WestJet will reintroduce its midweek Wednesday service between Toronto Pearson International Airport and V.C. Bird International Airport. The added frequency complements WestJet’s existing year-round Sunday flight, as well as weekly Sunday service from Air Canada.
The increased capacity comes as Antigua and Barbuda positions itself as both a standalone destination and a gateway to the wider Caribbean, with convenient onward connections to neighbouring islands.
According to Tameka Wharton, Director of Tourism for Canada, the additional service is timed to coincide with the destination’s busy summer calendar and offers more options for both leisure travellers and those visiting friends and relatives.
“Antigua and Barbuda’s calendar is full of relaxed, family-friendly events all year long, and this is especially true in the summer,” she said. “Having a midweek flight gives visitors more flexibility for spontaneous summer getaways, like pink sand spotting in Barbuda, while also allowing travellers to take advantage of non-peak season rates. Visit to unpack your perfect Christmas in July.”
The expanded schedule aligns with several major events, led by Antigua Carnival, taking place from July 25 to Aug. 4. Widely known as the Caribbean’s “Greatest Summer Festival,” Carnival features parades, costumes, steel pan and calypso competitions, along with a full lineup of fetes and community celebrations.
Food-focused experiences will also be in the spotlight with the Urlings Seafood Festival on Aug. 9. Held in the coastal village of Urlings, the event showcases local seafood, culinary talent and live entertainment in a family-friendly setting.
Later in the month, ANUCON on Aug. 16 offers a different cultural angle, bringing together fans of comic books, anime and cosplay through interactive programming, exhibitions and competitions.
Sports tourism is also expected to draw visitors, with the Caribbean Premier League T20 cricket season running from August through September. The tournament features international and regional players, blending high-level cricket with music, food and a lively atmosphere.
The added Wednesday frequency will operate once weekly throughout July and August, enhancing overall capacity during a period that typically sees strong demand driven by events and seasonal travel patterns.
With competitive fares currently available, tourism officials say the expanded airlift presents a timely opportunity for Canadian travellers to visit the destination during one of its most vibrant times of year. Travellers are encouraged to book early to secure preferred dates as demand builds for the summer season.
