8 CHEAP Airlines in Canada You Should Fly with in 2025

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I’ll be honest, flying in Canada used to make my wallet weep until I discovered the growing world of budget airlines. After countless flights between Vancouver and Toronto (and some surprisingly cheap hops to Halifax), I’ve learned which airlines actually deliver good value without the painful surprise fees. Even Porter Airlines, with their free beer and wine, somehow keeps their prices competitive on routes like Toronto to Montreal.

These are the best places in Canada to find legitimate flight deals right now, and I’ve tested them all personally. Recently, I grabbed a Flair Airlines ticket from Calgary to Vancouver for less than a nice dinner out. No more maxing out credit cards just to visit family or friends! Here are 8 airlines that prove Canadian travel doesn’t have to break the bank.

#1 tip to find cheap flights to Canada

Looking for cheap flights in Canada? Before diving into all the top airlines that fly to Canada, I want to share a quick tip on how to save money on airfare.

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $153 roundtrip fare from Boston to Toronto.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. I recommend signing up for the free trial to try it for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the cheapest airlines in Canada in 2025..

Best Cheap Airlines in Canada to Fly in 2025

Looking for cheap airlines in Canada to fly in 2025? Book with Flair Airlines for ultra-low-cost domestic and international flights, choose Air Canada Rouge for affordable leisure travel, fly with Air Transat for budget-friendly vacation destinations, and explore options with Lynx Air for low-cost Canadian routes. Whether you’re looking for short-haul or long-haul flights, these airlines offer great savings for travelers in 2025.

1. 🇨🇦 Flair Airlines

• 🏠 Base: Edmonton International Airport (YEG)
• ✈️ Best For: Ultra-low-cost domestic travel and spontaneous weekend trips
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only (with paid upgrades for extra legroom)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; carry-on and checked bags cost extra
• 💳 Loyalty Program: None
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book during their $29 CAD fare sales and travel light to avoid add-on fees

Flair Airlines is one of Canada’s most popular ultra-low-cost carriers. With fares regularly starting at $29 to $59 CAD one-way, it’s become a go-to for students, budget-conscious travelers, and spontaneous weekend adventurers.

Based out of Edmonton International Airport (YEG), Flair flies to over 30 destinations across Canada and select U.S. cities like Las Vegas, Phoenix, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale. Their route map includes most major Canadian hubs, including Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Halifax, and Ottawa, making it easy to piece together affordable trips coast to coast.

Flair operates a fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft, with all-economy seating. While the standard seats are basic, you can pay extra for exit row legroom or to select a seat closer to the front. Onboard services are minimal…there are no seatback screens, but food and drinks are available for purchase.

The key to keeping your trip cheap? Travel light. Flair only includes a personal item (like a small backpack) in their base fares. Carry-ons and checked bags come at an added cost (typically $39–59 CAD per bag). The earlier you pre-pay for luggage, the cheaper it is.

While Flair doesn’t have a traditional loyalty program or airline alliance, it’s known for offering aggressively low fares during flash sales, sometimes as low as $1 CAD base fare (before taxes and fees). Their booking calendar is flexible, so you can often shift by a day or two to unlock the lowest price.

• Read next: Cheapest Flights from Vancouver
• You may also like: Cheap Flights from Toronto

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2. 🇨🇦 Air Canada Rouge

• 🏠 Base: Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
• ✈️ Best For: Budget leisure travel to sun destinations and European cities
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy and Premium Rouge (extra legroom and enhanced service)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item and carry-on included; checked bags cost extra
• 💳 Loyalty Program: Integrated with Air Canada Aeroplan
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book during seat sales and use Aeroplan points to offset baggage fees

When Air Canada launched their budget-friendly Rouge subsidiary in 2013, they had one clear mission: offer cheaper vacation options without leaving Canada. Fast forward to 2025, and they’re saving travelers up to 30% compared to regular Air Canada prices on the same routes.

Based out of Toronto, this wallet-friendly option flies to popular vacation spots across the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and select European cities. Their route network focuses on sunny destinations like Orlando, Cancun, Punta Cana, and Barcelona, perfect for budget travelers looking to escape winter without the premium price tag.

The Airbus A320 family aircraft keep costs low with all-economy configurations that fit more passengers per flight. Standard seats have less legroom than regular Air Canada flights, but base fares often start $50-100 cheaper per segment. During promotions, you can snag flights for as little as $149 to tropical destinations.

The real value comes from the Aeroplan integration. Budget travelers earn points while paying significantly less than mainline prices. Watch for their seasonal sales with fares dropping to $99 CAD for select US destinations and $299 CAD to Europe (before taxes). The color-coded booking calendar makes finding the cheapest travel dates simple, with Tuesday and Wednesday departures typically offering the best rates for cost-conscious travelers.

• Read next: Tips to Survive Winter in Quebec and Montreal
• You may also like: Cheapest Places to Fly from Calgary
• For more reading: Unique Travel Experiences to Try
• Keep reading: Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Canada

3. 🇨🇦 Air Transat

• 🏠 Base: Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL)
• ✈️ Best For: Affordable transatlantic flights and southern vacation packages
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy and Club Class (premium cabin with enhanced service)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; carry-on and checked bags vary by fare type
• 💳 Loyalty Program: MACH rewards program
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their “eco-budget” fares for rock-bottom prices if you can travel light

Founded as a charter airline that shuttled snowbirds to warm destinations, Air Transat has evolved into a serious contender for budget-conscious international travelers. They’ve been named “World’s Best Leisure Airline” multiple times while maintaining prices that consistently undercut the major carriers.

Flying mainly from Montreal and Toronto, Transat connects to over 60 vacation hotspots across Europe, the Caribbean, and Mexico. Want to see Paris or London without spending a fortune? Their routes focus on exactly where you actually want to go, with prices often $200-300 less than major carriers on popular routes.

Their Airbus planes offer decent legroom for the price point, and their Club Class costs about half what you’d spend on business class with major airlines. During off-season, you can grab tickets to Europe for around $399 roundtrip before taxes. One cool perk: their long-haul flights include free hot meals even in economy, unlike most budget carriers.

The real money-saver is their “eco-budget” fare if you can pack light. Their simple MACH rewards program isn’t fancy but gets the job done. They also offer some of the cheapest vacation packages in Canada, bundling flights and hotels for less than competitors. Make sure to check their Tuesday deals when prices sometimes drop 40%, especially for last-minute trips or shoulder season travel to Europe. Their Option Plus upgrade is worth considering too, for about $50 you get seat selection, priority boarding, and an extra checked bag.

4. 🇨🇦 Lynx Air

• 🏠 Base: Calgary International Airport (YYC)
• ✈️ Best For: Ultra low-cost domestic travel and select US destinations
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only (pay for seat selection)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; carry-on and checked bags cost extra
• 💳 Loyalty Program: None
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Join their email list for exclusive $39 CAD base fare flash sales

Lynx Air burst onto the Canadian aviation scene in 2022 and has quickly become the go-to for travelers who’d rather spend money at their destination than on getting there. They’ve expanded rapidly with some of the cheapest base fares in the country.

Flying out of Calgary with a growing presence in Toronto and Vancouver, Lynx connects major Canadian cities and a handful of sunny US spots like Las Vegas and Orlando. Their route network isn’t huge, but it covers the most popular domestic corridors with fares that sometimes start at just $39 CAD one-way.

Their fleet of brand new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft keeps fuel costs down and savings high. The seats are pretty basic and you’ll pay extra for literally everything (even water), but when tickets cost less than a nice dinner out, who’s complaining? The “a la carte” model means you only pay for what you actually need, with base fares often 30-40% cheaper than mainstream carriers.

What makes Lynx stand out is their transparency about fees. Their website clearly shows what you’ll pay for each add-on, so there are no surprises at check-in. They run frequent promotions where they’ll cut prices on specific routes to fill planes, sometimes dropping fares to just $1 plus taxes. If your dates are flexible and you can pack super light, Lynx is probably your cheapest way to get around Canada. Just book early, as their prices tend to skyrocket closer to departure.

5. 🇨🇦 Swoop Airlines

• 🏠 Base: Hamilton John C. Munro International Airport (YHM)
• ✈️ Best For: Ultra-budget travel to US sun destinations and secondary Canadian cities
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only with extra legroom options available
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; all other bags cost extra
• 💳 Loyalty Program: None, but connects with WestJet Rewards program
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book from smaller airports like Hamilton or Abbotsford for the lowest fares

As WestJet’s budget offspring, Swoop was created with one mission: strip away all the frills and get you there cheap. Since launching in 2018, they’ve become the go-to for travelers who don’t mind flying from secondary airports if it means saving serious cash.

Operating primarily from smaller hubs like Hamilton and Abbotsford, Swoop serves destinations across Canada, the US, and select spots in Mexico and the Caribbean. The genius of their model? Using less congested, lower-fee airports that traditional airlines often skip. This translates to base fares sometimes as low as $49 one-way during promotions.

Their all-Boeing fleet keeps things simple and efficient, with planes configured to maximize seating density. Sure, you’ll feel the squeeze, but their “unbundled” pricing model means your fare only covers the seat and literally nothing else. Want to choose your seat? That’s extra. Need overhead bin space? That’s extra too. But if you can travel with just a backpack and don’t care where you sit, you’ll score some of the cheapest flights in North America.

While they don’t have their own loyalty program, you can still earn WestJet Dollars on Swoop flights. They also run some of the best sales in Canadian aviation, with their famous “Swoopons” sometimes cutting fares by up to 50%. Just watch out for their dynamic pricing model, which means waiting until the last minute will usually cost you substantially more.

• Read next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Calgary
• You may also like: Budget-Friendly Destinations to Fly from Halifax

6. 🇨🇦 Porter Airlines

• 🏠 Base: Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)
• ✈️ Best For: Affordable short-haul business travel and downtown-to-downtown connections
• 💺 Cabin Options: All-economy with premium experience
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item and carry-on included; checked bags cost extra
• 💳 Loyalty Program: VIPorter points program
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their downtown airport routes to avoid lengthy airport commutes and save on transportation costs

Porter proves budget travel doesn’t have to feel cheap. Launched in 2006 with a focus on the business crowd, they’ve carved out a unique niche by offering surprisingly affordable flights with touches of luxury you won’t find on other budget carriers.

Flying primarily from Toronto’s downtown island airport, Porter connects to business centers across eastern Canada and the northeastern US. Their expansion now includes more leisure destinations and flights from Toronto Pearson, Montreal, Ottawa, and Halifax. What makes them special? Landing at downtown airports saves you both time and money on airport transportation.

Their fleet of Embraer aircraft delivers a more comfortable experience than typical budget carriers. Every seat offers decent legroom, and their signature service includes free snacks, beer, and wine in actual glassware (yes, even in 2025, and yes, on a budget airline). Their newer Embraer E195-E2 jets have extended their range while maintaining lower operating costs that keep fares competitive.

While base fares might be $20-30 more than ultra-low-cost carriers, you’re getting complimentary refreshments, free Wi-Fi, no middle seats on most aircraft, and often a more convenient airport location. Their VIPorter program offers decent rewards with points that don’t expire, and their regular seat sales often drop prices to major eastern cities to around $99 one-way. For business travelers or anyone who values comfort alongside cost, Porter offers the best balance in Canadian aviation.

• Read next: Hidden Gems in Toronto
• You may also like: Affordable Places to Fly from Boston
• For more reading: Breathtaking Places to Visit in Quebec

7. 🇨🇦 WestJet

• 🏠 Base: Calgary International Airport (YYC)
• ✈️ Best For: Affordable full-service travel throughout Canada with frequent sales
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium, and Business (on select international routes)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item and carry-on included; first checked bag free on select fares
• 💳 Loyalty Program: WestJet Rewards dollars program
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Join their email list for “WestJet Wednesday” deals offering significant discounts

WestJet started as the scrappy western challenger to Air Canada back in 1996, and while they’ve grown into a major carrier, they’ve kept their commitment to making travel affordable for everyday Canadians.

Based in Calgary with significant operations in Vancouver, Toronto, and Edmonton, WestJet connects to over 100 destinations across Canada, the US, Europe, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Their route network balances business corridors with vacation hotspots, offering competitive pricing that’s typically 10-15% below Air Canada on comparable routes.

Their mixed fleet of Boeing aircraft provides different experiences depending on your route. Domestic flights feature comfortable all-economy seating, while their international Dreamliners offer a business class experience at prices often hundreds of dollars less than competitors. Their frequent “seat sales” can drop fares to as low as $99 one-way between major Canadian cities.

What sets WestJet apart from true budget airlines is their balance of value and service. While not as bare-bones cheap as their own subsidiary Swoop, they offer a more complete experience with free entertainment, reasonable baggage allowances, and generally better customer service. Their WestJet Rewards program lets you earn and redeem dollars (not points) toward flights with no blackout dates, making it one of the most straightforward loyalty programs. For travelers who want cheap fares without the ultra-low-cost experience, WestJet hits the sweet spot between affordability and comfort.

8. 🇨🇦 Pacific Coastal Airlines

• 🏠 Base: Vancouver International Airport South Terminal (YVR)
• ✈️ Best For: Affordable connections to smaller British Columbia communities and coastal destinations
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only with all-leather seating
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; generous free checked baggage allowance (up to 23kg)
• 💳 Loyalty Program: Soar rewards program
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their “Quick Pass” multi-flight packages for substantial savings on regional travel

Pacific Coastal might be the best-kept secret in western Canadian aviation. This locally owned regional carrier has been connecting BC communities since 1987, offering surprisingly affordable flights to destinations the major airlines either don’t serve or price at premium rates.

Operating from the south terminal at Vancouver International, Pacific Coastal specializes in connecting Vancouver to smaller communities across British Columbia and beyond, including destinations like Victoria, Tofino, Cranbrook, and Bella Coola. Their unique route network focuses on serving resource industry hubs, coastal communities, and regional business centers that often lack affordable air access.

Their fleet of smaller Saab and Beechcraft aircraft allows them to serve airports that larger jets can’t access, while keeping operating costs (and therefore fares) low. Though the planes are smaller than what you’d find with major carriers, they offer surprisingly comfortable all-leather seating and personalized service that feels more premium than budget. Their free baggage allowance is among the most generous in Canada, saving frequent travelers hundreds in fees.

Major carriers might charge $400+ for a short hop to a remote BC community, but Pacific Coastal often offers the same route for half the price. Their “Quick Pass” bulk purchase program provides substantial discounts for frequent travelers, with packages starting at just $579 for three one-way flights. For residents and visitors exploring beyond Vancouver, they’re often the cheapest way to experience British Columbia’s spectacular smaller destinations without breaking the bank.

• Read next: Enchanting Places to Visit in British Columbia

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Cheapest Airlines in Canada

Here are some common questions and answers about the best budget airlines in Canada.

Who is the largest low-cost airline in Canada?

The largest low-cost airline in Canada is WestJet. Established in 1996, WestJet has grown to become a leading budget airline. It offers an extensive network of routes both domestically and internationally. Known for its affordable pricing, friendly service, and generous loyalty program, WestJet holds a significant share of Canada’s budget travel market. It’s a top choice for those seeking cheap flights to Canada!

Where is the cheapest place to fly to in Canada?

One of the cheapest destinations to fly to in Canada is Montreal. With its rich cultural tapestry, vibrant arts scene, and diverse culinary offerings, Montreal attracts travelers from all over the world. Its popularity means more competitive airfares, with many budget airlines in Canada offering regular deals to this bustling metropolis. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions and last-minute discounts to snag the best deals.

Which destinations are typically the cheapest to fly from Canada?

Popular budget-friendly destinations from Canada include Cancun, Buffalo, and Reykjavik frequently pop up with competitive flight deals.

What is the main airline in Canada?

The main airline in Canada is Air Canada. As the country’s flag carrier, Air Canada operates the largest fleet and the most extensive network of routes in Canada. It covers a wide range of destinations domestically and around the globe. While known for its premium services, Air Canada also competes in the budget travel market through its subsidiary, Air Canada Rouge. This caters to cost-conscious travelers seeking affordable flights in Canada.

How do I find the cheapest flights in Canada?

Finding the cheapest flights in Canada requires a mix of planning, research, and flexibility. Here’s a quick guide to help you land the best deals:

• Start Early: Begin your search several months in advance. Airfare typically increases as the departure date approaches.
• Be Flexible: If possible, be flexible with your travel dates. Mid-week flights often cost less than weekend flights.
• Use Incognito Mode: Search for flights in your browser’s incognito mode to view the freshest prices.
• Compare Prices: Use flight comparison websites to compare fares from multiple airlines at once.
• Set Alerts: Set up price alerts for your desired route to get notified when prices drop.
• Consider Off-Peak Seasons: Traveling during non-holiday periods can significantly reduce your airfare.
• Check Alternative Airports: Sometimes, nearby airports offer better deals. Compare prices between different airports in the same region.
• Join Loyalty Programs: Sign up for airline loyalty programs and subscribe to newsletters for exclusive deals and early access to promotions.

Which is better: Porter or WestJet?

That’s a tough one! Choosing between Porter and WestJet depends on your specific travel needs. Porter is renowned for its premium in-flight experience, free onboard refreshments, and convenience of flying from central airports like Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. WestJet, on the other hand, offers a more extensive network of destinations, a generous rewards program, and competitive prices. For shorter, more luxurious trips, Porter might suit you best. In contrast, WestJet could be preferable for longer flights or a wider selection of destinations.

Are Canadian low-cost airlines safe to fly?

Yes, Canadian low-cost airlines are safe to fly. Despite offering lower fares, these airlines must adhere to the same stringent safety regulations as traditional carriers. Canada has strict aviation safety standards, and airlines undergo regular inspections and audits to ensure they maintain a high level of safety. Whether you’re flying on a budget or not, your well-being is a top priority.

What are the best budget airlines for long-haul flights to Canada?

For long-haul flights to Canada, Air Transat and WestJet are among the best budget airlines. Air Transat specializes in leisure travel, offering various deals for vacationer. WestJet provides competitive rates on long-haul flights, coupled with a comprehensive route network. Both Canadian airlines feature promotional fares and package deals, which makes them excellent options for travelers seeking cheap flight deals to Canada on longer journeys.

Cheapest Airlines in Canada: Recap

Navigating the skies of Canada need not be a costly affair with the array of budget-friendly airlines at your disposal. Each carrier brings something unique to the table. These range from extensive route networks and premium in-flight experiences to access to remote locales and exceptional loyalty programs. The key to enjoying Canada’s majestic landscapes and vibrant cities on a budget lies in choosing an airline that aligns with your travel preferences and financial plans.

Staying informed and proactive is crucial in securing the best airfare deals. Early booking, flexibility with travel dates, and using incognito mode during searches can lead to significant savings. Additionally, don’t underestimate the value of signing up for airline newsletters and loyalty programs. These are often sources of exclusive promotions and substantial discounts.

Remember, low-cost doesn’t imply low-quality. These Canadian airlines are proof that affordable travel can still be comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable. With the right approach and resources, exploring the Great White North is possible for every budget-conscious traveler. Here’s to your next Canadian adventure — an experience defined not by how much you spend, but by the memories you create!