Porter Airlines goes big

Its name may be synonymous with Billy Bishop Toronto Airport but Porter Airlines is about to tackle Air Canada head on with its premium product.

In a surprise move the airline, responsible for the revitalisation of Toronto’s downtown airport, is to add up to 80 state-of-the-art fuel-efficient Embraer E195-E2 aircraft into its fleet. The planes have transcontinental range and will enter into service with Porter starting in the second half of 2022.  Seating is up to 146 passengers.

Porter is Embraer’s North American launch customer for the E2.

The airline intends to operate the E2s to popular destinations from Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto Pearson International Airport. The introduction of specific routes will be determined in advance of aircraft deliveries.

“We are bringing Porter’s distinct style of service to dozens of new North American cities,” said Michael Deluce, President and CEO, Porter Airlines. “We believe that now is the right time to make this investment as the pandemic resets the aviation landscape. Adding a diverse selection of popular business and leisure destinations to our network means that we are better positioned to serve the needs of many more passengers.”

He emphasised that “flights from Porter’s existing hub at downtown Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport remain the core to the business and will continue with high-frequency regional service on turboprop aircraft.”

Services are confirmed to finally restart at Billy Bishop on 8 September following the Covid-19 pandemic and associated travel restrictions.  (See BTN 12 July)

www.flyporter.com

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