10 Airlines That Make Flying to Canada Easy & Affordable

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Let me tell you something about flying to Canada: it should be easy, not a budget buster. After countless flights across the border, I’ve nailed down which airlines actually deliver great service without draining your wallet. Whether you’re dreaming of poutine in Montreal or whale watching in Vancouver, getting there shouldn’t be the hardest part of your trip.

Before you start planning your adventures to the best places in Canada, I want to share which airlines will get you there without any drama. I analyzed over 100 most popular flight routes to Canada, considering factors like the amenities, pricing, seat comfort/legroom, and on-time performance. Here are the airlines that’ll kick off your Canadian adventure right, leaving you with extra cash for those maple syrup souvenirs.

#1 tip to find cheap flights to Canada

Looking for the cheapest flights to Canada? This is a game-changer: Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights).

Here’s the deal: Sign up for free email alerts, set your departure and destination, and boom – you’ll get alerts for insanely cheap flights. Mistake fares? Deep discounts? They’ve got it all.

I’ve saved thousands using Going. Recently, I even found a $165 roundtrip fare from Boston to Toronto during the summer. Not bad!

Want even more deals? Their $49/year premium version is well worth it- just one discounted flight pays the whole thing. And if you’re into business/first class, you’ll definitely want to sign up for their Elite version, which saved me over $5,000 in 2024 alone. Trust me, it’s a small price for massive savings.

Now, let’s discuss the best way to fly to Canada in 2025.

Best Airlines for Easy & Affordable Flights to Canada

Looking for the best airlines for easy & affordable flights to Canada? Fly with Air Canada for extensive domestic and international routes, choose United Airlines for seamless connections, enjoy premium service with Delta Air Lines, or find budget-friendly options on WestJet. Whether you’re traveling for business, adventure, or family visits, these airlines offer great options for flying to Canada.

1. 🇨🇦 Air Canada

• 🏠 Hub: Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), Montreal (YUL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class, First Class (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Aeroplan — extensive North American network and Star Alliance benefits
• ☕ Perks: Maple Leaf Lounges, priority boarding, complimentary meals on long-haul, robust domestic connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book connecting flights through Toronto or Montreal for better Aeroplan earning rates and access to Air Canada’s extensive domestic network.

Air Canada is the obvious go-to for flights into the country, and for good reason. With nonstop service from New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, and Seattle into Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, the airline makes flying north feel seamless especially with their modern Boeing 787s, Airbus A220s, and A330s fleet.

If you’re looking to upgrade from the basics, Premium Economy offers better-than-average meals and more breathing room. Business Class on longer routes features lie-flat seating, direct aisle access, and a menu that’s a step above what you’ll find on most North American flights. And in the lounge, you’ll find Canadian comforts like local craft beer, maple cookies, and surprisingly decent hot food options.

Where Air Canada really stands out is after you land. No other airline matches their domestic reach. Whether you’re heading to Halifax, Kelowna, or a small regional city, they’ve likely got a connection. That depth is key when your final stop isn’t one of the big three.

Aeroplan program is genuinely rewarding for North American travel, with reasonable redemption rates and Star Alliance partnerships that open up global opportunities. Elite status brings perks like priority boarding, lounge access, and complimentary upgrades that make frequent Canada trips way more comfortable.

• Read next: Montreal Winter Guide

2. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Denver (DEN), Houston (IAH), Newark (EWR), San Francisco (SFO)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Economy, Premium Plus, Business, First Class (domestic)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus — flexible award program with Star Alliance benefits
• ☕ Perks: Polaris lounges, complimentary snacks, extensive route network, solid upgrade opportunities
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Star Alliance partnership with Air Canada to earn United miles on domestic Canadian flights and maximize your points for future travel.

If you want to fly to Canada with an airline you already know, United is a solid bet. They’ve built out an impressive Canadian network with flights from Chicago, Newark, San Francisco, Denver, and Houston to cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary. Chicago is especially useful if you’re headed to eastern Canada and want to avoid a long haul through the coasts.

Flights are operated with 737s, A320s, and 787s, depending on the route. The aircraft are well-maintained, and service often feels a step above what you’d expect for a short international hop. Crews tend to treat these routes like premium domestic legs, so the experience feels more polished than rushed. Premium Plus gives you extra space and a better meal without the full business class price. On longer routes, Business Class offers lie-flat seats, though most Canada-bound flights are short enough that the extra comfort in Premium Plus is all you’ll really need.

You’ll also get access to Polaris lounges at major hubs like Chicago and San Francisco if you’re flying in a premium cabin or hold elite status. These lounges are great for grabbing a meal, working, or just relaxing before your flight. The United app makes travel smoother too, giving real-time updates and easy access to gate changes or rebooking options.

For loyalty members, MileagePlus works well for cross-border travel. You can earn or redeem miles on Air Canada flights, and Star Alliance perks like free bags and upgrades add value on repeat trips.

3. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), Detroit (DTW), Minneapolis (MSP), New York JFK, Seattle (SEA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Comfort+, Delta One (Business), First Class (domestic)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles — points never expire with SkyTeam alliance benefits
• ☕ Perks: Sky Clubs, complimentary snacks and beverages, reliable operations, premium customer service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Seattle hub offers the shortest flights to Vancouver, while Minneapolis provides great connections to central and eastern Canada.

Delta makes flying to Canada feel simple, which is half the battle with international travel. They offer nonstop service from major U.S. hubs like Seattle, Minneapolis, Detroit, New York JFK, and Atlanta to key cities including Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary. Aircraft like the Boeing 737 and Airbus A220 are used on most routes, and the overall experience is consistently smooth.

For added comfort, Comfort+ includes extra legroom and earlier boarding, which really helps on longer routes. First Class or Delta One on transcontinental flights brings even more space and upgraded meals. West Coast travelers in particular benefit from the short hop between Seattle and Vancouver, one of the fastest and easiest international routes available.

Delta’s Sky Clubs offer solid lounge experiences with reliable WiFi, light meals, and quiet corners to relax or get work done. Delta’s strong operational performance is a big win here too. Their flights are usually on time, and when issues do come up, rebooking and communication tend to be handled more efficiently than most.

The SkyMiles program adds good long-term value. You won’t lose points due to inactivity, and flash sales sometimes include routes to Canada for fewer miles. You can also earn with SkyTeam partners like Air France and KLM, or rack up points faster with Delta’s credit card options. 

INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Last year, I got an email alert on a $250 roundtrip fare from Boston to Vancouver with Alaska Air. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.

4. 🇨🇦 WestJet

• 🏠 Hub: Calgary (YYC), Vancouver (YVR), Toronto (YYZ)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium, Business (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: WestJet Rewards — simple earning structure with flexible redemptions
• ☕ Perks: Free snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, friendly crew, competitive baggage policies, solid on-time performance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book WestJet Vacations packages when combining flights with hotels. They often beat booking separately, especially for ski trips and summer getaways.

WestJet keeps cross-border travel laid-back and efficient. They fly from U.S. cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Phoenix, New York, and Chicago into Canadian hubs like Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and Edmonton. The fleet mostly runs on Boeing 737s, which may not be flashy, but they’re clean, comfortable, and dependable. More importantly, the crews consistently deliver friendly, upbeat service that makes the whole flight feel more relaxed.

In Premium, you get extra space and early boarding at a reasonable price, while Business Class on longer routes offers lie-flat seating and warm, unpretentious hospitality. One thing that sets WestJet apart is the onboard energy like safety announcements with humor, crew members who actually smile, and an overall tone that makes travel feel enjoyable again.

Reliability is another strong point here. WestJet handles weather delays and operational hiccups with solid communication and flexible policies. Their approach to baggage fees and itinerary changes is more forgiving than most, and when things don’t go as planned, their team actually tries to help instead of just reading from a script. Vacation packages that combine flights and hotels can save you a lot, especially for longer trips.

WestJet Rewards is straightforward and traveler-friendly. Points are easy to redeem with no blackout dates, and the earning structure makes sense whether you’re flying frequently or just once in a while. 

5. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Charlotte (CLT), Miami (MIA), Phoenix (PHX), Philadelphia (PHL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Business, First Class (domestic)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage — extensive partner network with Oneworld alliance benefits
• ☕ Perks: Admirals Club access, complimentary snacks and drinks, strong domestic network, frequent flyer benefits
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Charlotte hub offers surprisingly good Canada connections, and AAdvantage miles work well for booking partner flights throughout Canada.

American Airlines may not be the first airline you think of for Canada, but they offer solid service to Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal from hubs like Dallas, Charlotte, Miami, New York, and Phoenix. Flights are typically operated on 737s and A321s, with service that feels more polished than your average short-haul flight. Crews on these routes are used to international passengers, and it shows in the attention to detail.

On longer flights, Premium Economy provides more space and better meals at a price that’s easier to justify, especially when headed to Vancouver from the southern U.S. If you’re flying in First Class on domestic legs, you’ll enjoy priority check-in, enhanced service, and early boarding. Lounges like the Admirals Club are a nice touch if you want a quiet place to relax, catch up on emails, or fuel up before your flight.

Charlotte often flies under the radar but is actually one of the better American hubs for Canada trips. Connections are quick, airport crowds are manageable, and flights to Canada are frequent and well-timed. American’s operations have become more reliable in recent years, and their teams are more responsive when weather or equipment issues throw off your plans.

AAdvantage program works well for Canada travel through Oneworld partnerships, especially with connections to other destinations if you’re planning multi-city trips. Elite status brings perks like free checked bags and upgrades that add value for frequent Canada travelers. 

• Read next: Cheap Airlines in Canada

6. 🇺🇸 Alaska Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Seattle (SEA), Portland (PDX), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Premium Class, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Mileage Plan — generous earning rates with unique airline partnerships
• ☕ Perks: Excellent West Coast coverage, friendly service, competitive pricing, solid customer service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Join Alaska’s Mileage Plan if you fly to Canada frequently. It’s one of the easiest programs to earn status with, and the perks like upgrades and free bags can make a big difference on every trip.

If you’re flying to Canada from the West Coast, Alaska Airlines should be near the top of your list. They offer convenient nonstop service from cities like Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego to major Canadian destinations including Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto. Their mix of Boeing 737s and Embraer jets is modern and reliable, and their crews consistently deliver warm, approachable service.

Premium Class gives you extra legroom and early boarding at a price that won’t wreck your budget. On longer routes, First Class includes full meals and upgraded seating that makes the trip feel a little more like a treat. What stands out with Alaska is how well they handle regional travel. Their schedule is tailored to West Coast flyers, and their operations at Seattle-Tacoma make quick hops to Vancouver especially easy.

Alaska also earns points for its strong track record on delays and cancellations, especially in weather-sensitive areas like the Pacific Northwest. Their customer service teams are responsive and often empowered to solve problems quickly, which is key when plans shift.

And when it comes to rewards, Mileage Plan is one of the most generous in the industry. You can earn miles not only on Alaska flights but with an impressive lineup of global partners. Redemptions are flexible, and elite members get real benefits like complimentary upgrades, free checked bags, and priority services.

7. 🇫🇷 Air France

• 🏠 Hub: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, La Première (First Class on select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue — monthly promo awards with SkyTeam alliance benefits
• ☕ Perks: French cuisine and wine service, stylish cabins, Air France lounges, complimentary meals on long-haul
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Check Flying Blue’s Promo Rewards page at the start of each month. You can often find discounted award flights to Canada that are only available for a limited time, so it pays to plan ahead.

Air France to Canada is for when you want to turn a simple trip into an actual adventure. Sure, you could fly direct, but why not route through Paris (CDG) first and make it interesting? Flying from New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Boston to Montreal and Toronto via Paris. Their Airbus A350s and Boeing 777s bring that French sophistication to long-haul flying, and honestly, the journey becomes part of the vacation.

Premium Economy is a sweet spot for value. You get more space, thoughtful service, and meals that feel distinctly French—yes, the wine is included and yes, it’s good. In Business Class, lie-flat seats and multi-course meals raise the bar even higher. On routes to Montreal, crews often embrace the shared French culture and add a personal touch that makes the whole experience feel more connected.

A stop in Paris can be a bonus rather than a layover. The airport itself has better food and shopping than most, and if you’ve got a few extra hours, you can take the train into the city and turn your trip into a two-for-one. Air France allows free 24-hour stopovers on many fares, so you can stroll the Seine before flying into Canada.

Flying Blue makes these trips more affordable than you might expect. Monthly promo awards often discount routes between the US, Paris, and Canada, and you can even earn points on partner flights with Delta.

8. 🇨🇦 Flair Airlines

• 🏠 Base: Edmonton International Airport (YEG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only (with paid upgrades for extra legroom)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: None — focus on ultra-low-cost travel
• ☕ Perks: Ultra-low base fares, frequent sales, no-frills efficiency, direct routes to Canadian destinations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Sign up for Flair’s email alerts. Their flash sales often drop without warning, and the cheapest seats go fast.

Flair is Canada’s no-nonsense budget airline, and they lean into that identity hard. With routes from Las Vegas, Phoenix, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale to Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, and Edmonton, they make it possible to cross the border without draining your travel budget. You won’t find in-seat entertainment or free snacks here, but when you’re paying under $100 one-way, it’s hard to complain.

There’s no premium class because there’s no premium anything, just basic seats, basic service, and basic prices that let you spend your money on actually enjoying Canada instead of airline tickets. The crews are friendly in that distinctly Canadian way, even when they’re telling you that water costs extra. The key to Flair success is understanding their fee structure and planning accordingly.

Where Flair really shines is price. Their flash sales routinely offer roundtrip flights for under $200, and once you factor in checked bag or seat selection costs ahead of time, you’re still saving compared to legacy carriers. You’ll need to plan ahead and keep expectations in check, but they deliver what they promise: simple, cheap flights that get you where you need to go.

Without a loyalty program, Flair focuses purely on low prices and getting you there without unnecessary complications. Perfect for budget travelers, students, or anyone who’d rather spend money exploring Canadian cities than on fancy airline amenities. 

9. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus), Business (Club World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Avios) — part of Oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Afternoon tea in-flight, solid airport lounges, stylish business class, complimentary meals and drinks
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Combine Canada trips with London stopovers using BA’s generous stopover policies. You can explore two countries for one ticket price.

Flying British Airways to Canada adds a touch of international charm before you even land. Instead of heading straight north, you route through London Heathrow from cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, or Boston, then continue on to Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal. It’s a longer journey than flying direct, but their modern 787s and A350s help make the ride smooth, and the detour through London makes the whole trip feel more like a global experience.

World Traveller Plus premium economy is genuinely worth it for these longer routings, with proper meals, decent legroom, and service that feels more civilized than most North American carriers. Club World business class brings lie-flat luxury with British touches like afternoon tea service that somehow doesn’t feel cheesy at 35,000 feet. London connections can become mini-UK adventures if you time your flights right.

What makes British Airways practical for Canada travel is their flexible fare structure and wide award availability. They often run promotions on transatlantic routes, and connecting through London opens up a variety of schedules that can work better than limited nonstop options.

For frequent travelers, Avios points can be transferred from programs like Chase or Amex, making it easy to redeem for both long-haul and short-haul flights. The Executive Club program offers solid value for frequent flyers, and elite status provides perks like lounge access and priority boarding that make international trips feel easier. 

10. 🇨🇦 Porter Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Toronto Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy (PorterReserve)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: VIPorter — points-based rewards program
• ☕ Perks: Downtown Toronto airport, complimentary snacks and drinks, spacious cabins, premium service on short flights
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Billy Bishop Airport is right downtown Toronto. You can literally walk to major attractions instead of dealing with suburban airport hassles.

Porter Airlines brings a boutique feel to regional travel, and that alone sets it apart from most short-haul carriers. Based out of Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport, just minutes from downtown, Porter flies to major US cities like New York, Boston, Chicago, and Washington with a fleet of Embraer E195-E2 jets that feel more like mainline than regional.

PorterReserve, their premium economy offering, includes more legroom, priority perks, and elevated onboard service. What really stands out is the complimentary selection of snacks, soft drinks, and even wine or beer on every flight. It’s rare these days to feel looked after on a short route, but Porter still delivers that experience.

Billy Bishop Airport is the real game-changer here as it’s literally on an island in Toronto’s harbor, connected by a short tunnel, and you can walk or take a quick taxi to downtown Toronto attractions. No hour-long airport train rides or expensive Uber trips to actually reach the city. The airport itself is small, efficient, and designed for humans rather than cattle processing.

VIPorter rewards frequent flyers with a straightforward system. Points add up quickly, and the lack of blackout dates makes it easier to book trips when you actually want to fly. 

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Airlines to Fly to Canada

In our FAQ section, we’re answering all your questions about the best airlines to Canada, making your travel planning a breeze.

Which is the best airline to travel to Canada?

The best airline to travel to Canada depends on your preferences for service, comfort, and budget. For luxury and comprehensive service, Air Canada stands out as the flagship carrier. For budget-conscious travelers, airlines like WestJet and Porter Airlines offer competitive pricing with quality service. When considering the best airlines from the US to Canada, options like Delta and American Airlines also provide frequent and reliable services.

What airlines fly direct to Canada?

Several airlines offer direct flights to Canada, ensuring a convenient journey. Major carriers like Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter Airlines provide direct services from various US cities. International airlines such as British Airways and Lufthansa also offer direct flights to Canada. These direct services connect major Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal with key locations around the world.

What month is the cheapest to fly in Canada?

Typically, the cheapest months to fly in Canada are during the off-peak seasons, like late fall and winter, excluding the holiday season. January and February often see lower fares, as do months like April and October. During these times, airlines, including Canada airlines, offer more competitive pricing due to reduced demand.

What is the main airline in Canada?

The main airline in Canada is Air Canada, the country’s largest airline. Known for its extensive network, Air Canada offers flights across Canada and to numerous international destinations. It’s recognized for its quality service and comprehensive route options, making it a top choice for both domestic and international travelers.

Are there budget airlines in Canada?

Yes, Canada has several budget airlines that offer affordable travel options. Flair Airlines and Swoop are popular choices for budget-conscious travelers. These airlines provide lower fares by offering basic services, with additional fees for extras like baggage and seat selection. They are great for those looking to save money on short-haul and domestic flights.

Can I find luxury flights to Canada?

For travelers seeking luxury, airlines like Air Canada’s Signature Class and British Airways offer premium services. These include lie-flat seats, gourmet meals, and access to exclusive lounges. These luxury flights are available on long-haul international routes and provide a high level of comfort and service.

What is the best airline to fly to Canada for families?

For families flying to Canada, airlines like Air Canada and WestJet are excellent choices. They offer family-friendly services, including entertainment options for children and assistance for families during boarding and the flight. Their accommodating policies for baggage and seating make traveling with children more convenient.

How early should I book my flight to Canada for the best rates?

For the best rates on flights to Canada, it’s advisable to book at least 3 to 6 months in advance. Early booking often leads to lower prices and better seat availability. Keep an eye on sales and promotions from various airlines, as last-minute deals can also offer significant savings, especially during off-peak seasons.

What are the most popular destinations in Canada served by airlines?

Many airlines, including the best airlines to Canada, offer flights to popular Canadian destinations like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary. These cities are hubs for cultural experiences, business, and natural beauty, making them top choices for travelers. Airlines provide various flight options to these destinations, ensuring travelers can easily explore Canada’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities.

Is in-flight entertainment available on flights to Canada?

Yes, in-flight entertainment is commonly available on flights to Canada, especially on long-haul journeys. Airlines like Air Canada and British Airways offer a range of movies, TV shows, music, and games to keep passengers entertained. The availability and variety of in-flight entertainment can vary among airlines, with some offering advanced personal screens and others providing streaming services on personal devices.

Canada Airlines in 2025: A Recap

In conclusion, there are many top-rated airlines that fly to Canada, each with its own unique strengths and offerings. From the well-known giants like Air Canada and United Airlines to the cozy charm of Porter Airlines, there is an airline out there to suit every traveler’s needs and budget.

Whether you’re looking for exceptional customer service, state-of-the-art technology, or an extensive network of routes, Canada has it all. So, whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure or a quick weekend getaway, be sure to consider these top airlines for your journey to Canada. And don’t forget to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights to get the best possible deal on airfare this year!

Happy Travels! – Jon

Read next: Scott’s Cheap Flights Review