Star Alliance member Air Canada has confirmed a strategic expansion of its international network with the addition of new, non-stop flights from its hub at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Dubai.

The new route will operate four times weekly beginning October 28 onboard Air Canada’s flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet.

The carrier’s new Vancouver-Dubai flights will complement Air Canada’s daily service between Toronto and Dubai, broadening its presence in fast-growing international markets.

“We are extremely pleased to add the only non-stop service linking Vancouver and Dubai, two iconic and vibrant global destinations. Dubai is one of the top destinations worldwide, renowned for its extraordinary landmarks, rich culture and entertainment.

In cooperation with our codeshare and frequent flyer partner Emirates, our Vancouver-Dubai flights will connect to a multitude of destinations across the Middle East, Indian subcontinent and East Africa in Dubai, providing customers with choice and convenience while travelling for business or visiting friends and family,” said Mark Galardo, Senior Vice President, Network Planning and Revenue Management, at Air Canada.

“We are delighted Air Canada is introducing new service to Dubai from YVR. Direct service to Dubai, with convenient onward connection to southern India and other key destinations across the Middle East, will provide new opportunities for travel, education and access to global markets that will help meet the needs of our community and economy that supports it. I’d like to thank Air Canada for its ongoing commitment to YVR and support with connecting B.C. to the world,” Tamara Vrooman, President & CEO at Vancouver Airport Authority.

Air Canada’s international onboard services showcase some of Canada’s best culinary talent through Air Canada’s panel of celebrated chefs, comprising award-winning, Vancouver-based chefs David Hawksworth and Vikram Vij, and renowned Montreal chefs Antonio Park and Jérôme Ferrer. Complementing the culinary journey is a selection of top wines chosen by leading Canadian sommelier, Véronique Rivest.

Customers have opportunities to collect and redeem points through Aeroplan, Canada’s leading loyalty programme, when travelling with Air Canada, and eligible customers have access to priority check-in, Maple Leaf Lounges, priority boarding and other benefits including Air Canada’s exclusive Signature Suite at YVR.

The Vancouver and Dubai flights will be operated with Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft featuring three cabins of service for customers to choose from, including ‘Signature Class’ with lie-flat business seats, premium economy and economy Class.

Business seating is in a 1-2-1 configuration with aisle access for every passenger, while premium economy is configured 2-3-2 and standard economy still a comfortable 3-3-3.

Flights have also been built to conveniently connect to and from destinations in Alberta, BC and the western USA via Air Canada’s hub at YVR.

aircanada.com