Latest news with #MarkGalardo
Cision Canada
14-07-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Air Canada and ITA Airways Celebrate Significant Partnership Milestone with New Codeshare Agreement Enhancing Connectivity Between Canada, Italy and Beyond Français
Enhanced partnership unlocks more than 30 one-stop itineraries with seamless connections Each airline's code will be added to 10 routes beyond their respective hubs in Rome and Toronto Activating codeshare is a significant milestone as ITA Airways' prepares for entry into Star Alliance MONTREAL and ROME, July 14, 2025 /CNW/ - Air Canada and ITA Airways today announced a significant milestone in their partnership with a codeshare agreement that provides customers more convenient travel options when flying between Canada and Italy, and beyond. "We're thrilled to expand our partnership with ITA Airways through our new codeshare agreement that complements our robust network to Italy. This deepening of ties will allow customers travelling on Air Canada to Rome-Fiumicino to conveniently book and seamlessly connect to ten popular destinations across Italy, Africa, Israel and Albania. Likewise, ITA Airways customers arriving in Toronto will benefit from access to 10 key Canadian and U.S. cities across our network," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, and President, Cargo at Air Canada. "With work underway to facilitate ITA Airways' entry into Star Alliance, we are developing significant partnership synergies. This will form the foundation for a strong, long-term relationship between our two flag-carrying airlines." "The codeshare agreement with Air Canada is a great step forward for our growth strategy," said Joerg Eberhart, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of ITA Airways. "This partnership improves connectivity for our passengers traveling between Italy and North America, our first market beyond Italy, serving both leisure and business travelers. Moreover, it enables us to offer seamless connections for passengers of Italian origin residing in Canada and the United States, facilitating their journeys to Italy and beyond, while providing them the opportunity to fully experience the excellence of Made in Italy — a heritage that ITA Airways proudly represents as an ambassador worldwide." Under the agreement, Air Canada will place its AC code on select routes operated by ITA Airways from Rome-Fiumicino. These include five popular destinations in Italy: Lamezia Terme, Palermo, Catania, Florence and Bari; three points in Africa, including Cairo, and Tunis and Algiers; as well as Tirana and Tel Aviv (the latter temporarily suspended). ITA Airways will place its AZ code on selected routes operated by Air Canada from Toronto Pearson, these include: Montreal, Ottawa, Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary and St. John's; and selected services from Canada to the United States: Boston, Orlando, Dallas, and Fort Lauderdale. * Routes to/from Tunis and Algiers are subject to governmental approval Sales of codeshare tickets are available as of today, for travel starting on July 21 st. The airlines are working towards implementing reciprocal earning and redemption capabilities for their respective loyalty programs. ITA Airways is also in the process of joining the Star Alliance network as a full member, with work underway to facilitate full membership expected in early 2026. This partnership complements Air Canada's growing network to Italy. This summer, Air Canada will operate up to 39 weekly flights and over 13,000 weekly seats to Italy. In May, it launched a new route between Montreal and Naples, the gateway to the Amalfi coast. Naples is the airline's fourth non-stop connection between Canada and Italy in addition to Rome, Milan, and Venice. As well, Air Canada offers intermodal rail connections with Trenitalia, the largest train operator in Italy, with high-speed, regional, overnight and international train routes. Through these intermodal connections, customers will be able to travel to up to 30 onward destinations within Italy. In the current summer season, ITA Airways operates a total of 59 destinations, including 16 intercontinental, 27 international and 16 domestic routes. During the summer peak, the airline flies to 12 additional seasonal destinations in the Mediterranean — 3 domestic and 9 international — from Rome Fiumicino and Milan Linate. These seasonal destinations include the Balearic Islands (Ibiza, Majorca, Menorca), several Greek islands (Rhodes, Heraklion, Corfu, Zakynthos, Kefalonia), as well as the Italian islands of Lampedusa and Pantelleria. Furthermore, in addition to seasonal routes, ITA Airways has recently enhanced its offering to passengers, providing them with connections to over 100 additional destinations — both across Europe and on intercontinental routes—through codeshare agreements with five Lufthansa Group airlines: Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Air Dolomiti. About Air Canada Air Canada is Canada's largest airline, the country's flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world's most comprehensive air transportation network. Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada's Aeroplan program is Canada's premier travel loyalty program, where members can earn or redeem points on the world's largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers more travel choices than any other Canadian tour operator to hundreds of destinations worldwide, with a wide selection of hotels, flights, cruises, day tours, and car rentals. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada's passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada's climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. For additional information, please see Air Canada's TCFD disclosure. Air Canada shares are publicly traded on the TSX in Canada and the OTCQX in the US. About ITA Airways ITA Airways is the Italian reference carrier. The Company is 59% owned by the Ministry of Economy and Finance and 41% by Deutsche Lufthansa AG. ITA Airways operates both passenger and cargo air transport services, providing Italy with high-quality connectivity to international destinations, supporting tourism and foreign trade, as well as domestic connectivity within the Country, also leveraging integrated mobility. Through strong digitization of processes to ensure the best possible experience and personalized services, ITA Airways places customer service at the core of its strategy. This is combined with a commitment to sustainability, which encompasses environmental aspects (such as a young, technologically advanced fleet to reduce environmental impact), social aspects (a strong focus on its employees and the communities in which it operates), and governance aspects (integrating sustainability into internal strategies and processes). Sign up for Air Canada news: Media Resources: Photos Videos B-Roll Articles SOURCE Air Canada
Cision Canada
09-07-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Air Canada Further Expands its Latin America Network; Resumes Flights to Lima, Adds Three New Hotspot Destinations Français
Four non-stop flights weekly to Lima, two each from Montreal and Toronto First Canadian carrier offering non-stop service- to Mexico's buzzworthy Puerto Escondido from Toronto and a new route to Tepic, Riviera Nayarit from Vancouver Weekly non-stop flights from Montreal to Belize MONTREAL, July 9, 2025 /CNW/ - Air Canada today announced it is further expanding its winter 2025-26 network by resuming non-stop service to Lima, Peru with twice weekly flights from both Montreal and Toronto. The airline is also adding three new routes to Central America and Mexico including, Montreal-Belize, Toronto-Puerto Escondido*, and Vancouver-Tepic, Riviera Nayarit*, building on its recent Latin America expansion announcement. Flights are now available for sale at through Air Canada Contact Centres, and via travel agents. "Air Canada is further diversifying its global network this winter under its New Frontiers Strategy by capitalizing on strong leisure demand to sought-after vacation destinations in South and Central America and in Mexico's Oaxaca and Pacific coast areas. Our new flights are designed to provide easy connections for both Canadian and European travellers, as well as to take advantage of cargo opportunities in the region," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer, and President, Cargo at Air Canada. "Customers will have even more compelling choices when planning vacation travel this winter. From Peru's rich history and archaeological ruins, the legendary Belize Barrier Reef, or Mexico's vibrant and rapidly emerging hidden gem vacation spots, Air Canada is proud to bring new and exciting destinations for our customers to explore. We look forward to welcoming you onboard our award-winning airline soon," concluded Mr. Galardo. Air Canada's newest Mexico routes are opening doors to some of the country's buzzworthy and under the radar vacation destinations. Puerto Escondido, nestled along Oaxaca's stunning Pacific coast, is a laid-back surf haven renowned for its golden beaches and extraordinary waves. With new direct flights from Toronto, this bohemian paradise will now be within easy reach for Canadian travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path charm. On Mexico's western coast, Air Canada's new Vancouver-Tepic, Riviera Nayarit service opens a fresh gateway to the Riviera Nayarit—timed perfectly with the completion of a new highway linking Tepic to Puerto Vallarta in October 2025. Oceanfront gems such as artistic San Pancho, surf-friendly Sayulita, and upscale Punta Mita will be within a convenient 30-minute to one-hour drive from Tepic's airport. This new route offers travellers an alternative point of access to explore the vibrant landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural tapestry that make Nayarit one of Mexico's most captivating regions. This winter, Air Canada will offer over 80,000 weekly seats on more than 55 daily flights to 52 destinations in Latin America and the Caribbean, representing the greatest number of sun destinations the airline has served. Air Canada's flights to Peru: Air Canada's new Central America and Mexico winter routes: *The sale of air tickets in these routes is subject and condition to the prior authorization of the government of Mexico. About Air Canada Air Canada is Canada's largest airline, the country's flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world's most comprehensive air transportation network. Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada's Aeroplan program is Canada's premier travel loyalty program, where members can earn or redeem points on the world's largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers more travel choices than any other Canadian tour operator to hundreds of destinations worldwide, with a wide selection of hotels, flights, cruises, day tours, and car rentals. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada's passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada's climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. For additional information, please see Air Canada's TCFD disclosure. Air Canada shares are publicly traded on the TSX in Canada and the OTCQX in the US. Media Resources: Photos Videos B-Roll Articles SOURCE Air Canada
Cision Canada
27-06-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Bonjour Scotland! Air Canada Launches Flights from Montréal to Edinburgh Français
, June 27, 2025 /CNW/ - Air Canada's newest international flight from Montréal took off yesterday evening and has now arrived in Edinburgh, Scotland. "We are very proud to launch service to Edinburgh from Montréal, our latest route strategically added to our extensive transatlantic network," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer and President, Cargo. "This new connection between Canada and Scotland deepens our ties and commitment to the UK market. Our Montreal-Edinburgh flights are designed to connect our customers across North America conveniently to Edinburgh with seamless travel through our Montréal hub. Whether visiting Scotland to reunite with friends and loved ones, explore its historic castles, enjoy the vibrant arts scene, or welcoming visitors from Scotland eager to discover the vast beauty and diversity of Canada, our flights make it easier than ever to experience all that our two nations have to offer." "Having had the privilege of living in both Edinburgh and Montreal, I'm delighted to see this new route bringing together two cities celebrated for their history, creativity, and cultural vitality. This connection will deepen ties between our communities and create fresh opportunities for partnership and discovery," said Dave Jones, British Consul-General in Montreal. "I am delighted that Air Canada has opened a new route between Montreal and Edinburgh, adding to the roster of direct flights that now link Scotland and Canada - growing even further the economic benefits and friendship that exists between our countries. In a competitive aviation market, I welcome Air Canada's continued commitment to Scotland and look forward to many Canadians taking the opportunity to visit, study or do business in Scotland," said John Devine, Head of the Scottish Government in Canada. Montreal to Edinburgh is the latest new Europe route Air Canada has launched this summer. The airline inaugurated its Montreal to Porto and Toronto to Prague routes earlier this month, celebrated the launch of its Naples route in May, and marked the return of the Ottawa to London Heathrow route in April. Schedule The Edinburgh flights will be operated on Air Canada's Boeing 737 MAX 8. Visit to book flights to Edinburgh! Air Canada is Canada's largest airline, the country's flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world's most comprehensive air transportation network. Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada's Aeroplan program is Canada's premier travel loyalty program, where members can earn or redeem points on the world's largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers more travel choices than any other Canadian tour operator to hundreds of destinations worldwide, with a wide selection of hotels, flights, cruises, day tours, and car rentals. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada's passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada's climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. For additional information, please see Air Canada's TCFD disclosure. Air Canada shares are publicly traded on the TSX in Canada and the OTCQX in the US. Sign up for Air Canada news: Media Resources: Photos Videos B-Roll Articles SOURCE Air Canada
Cision Canada
26-06-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Air Canada Enhances its rail connections in Germany through Codeshare on Lufthansa Express Rail, operated by Deutsche Bahn Français
Partnership creates seamless and convenient rail connections at Frankfurt Airport MONTREAL, June 26, 2025 /CNW/ - Air Canada today announced an extension of its codeshare agreement with Lufthansa to include Lufthansa Express Rail services at Frankfurt Airport, operated by Deutsche Bahn. This agreement enables a seamless, intermodal itinerary booked in one reservation, offering greater flexibility, more choice, and added convenience to connect with Air Canada's up to five-times daily flights to Frankfurt Airport. The codeshare expansion enhances Air Canada's international rail and bus intermodal network, which includes intermodal interlining partnerships in seven European countries and South Korea. "Air Canada is very pleased to expand its rail offer in Germany with codeshare on Lufthansa Express Rail, operated by Deutsche Bahn, the Star Alliance's first intermodal partner. Our intermodal connections provide customers with more travel options and make it easier for them to reach their final destinations. By elevating our partnership to a codeshare, we enhance the travel experience for our customers, enabling them to book through Air Canada for both air and rail travel. Among its many benefits, this makes check-in and connecting seamless, and includes a transfer guarantee, ensuring customer support and rebooking assistance in the event of travel disruptions," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer and President, Cargo. Customers can book their combined air and rail journey in Germany directly through the Air Canada website or via their travel agent. Customers arriving at or departing from Frankfurt airport will be able to connect onto Lufthansa Express Rail services to up to 24 stations as part of their flight itinerary. Frankfurt is a major destination for Air Canada, which will operate up to five times daily to the city in 2025. The agreement complements Air Canada's existing intermodal interlining partnership with Lufthansa Express Rail, as well as the Deutsche Bahn Rail&Fly product. Air Canada Intermodal Beginning in 2023, Air Canada launched air-to-rail booking options for customers to make intermodal connections at airports in eight countries. These include France's TGV-SNCF Voyageurs; Germany's Deutsche Bahn; Swiss Federal Railways; ÖBB, the national railway of Austria; Italy's Trenitalia; Spain's Renfe; and South Korea's KORAIL's KTX. In Britain, customers have access to LNER, Avanti West Coast, Great Western Rail, and the TransPennine Express, as well as the UK's leading scheduled coach operator, National Express. Through the airline's partnership with Lufthansa Express Rail Product and new collaborations with AccesRail & WorldTicket, customers can use a streamlined booking process on to create a seamless travel itinerary that connects their flight with trips on trains or coaches. Additional details are available at For more information on Air Canada intermodal see here Air Canada's partnership portfolio has doubled over the past decade with three joint business agreements, 40 codeshare, 120 interline and 13 intermodal rail options and one bus option across the transport ecosystem to over 1200 destinations, delivering a world-spanning array of travel choices for customers. Travelling internationally? Visit Air Canada's Travel Ready Hub for the latest government entry requirements. Customers are responsible for ensuring they meet all government entry requirements, including holding the correct travel documents, visas, any required health certificates, and all other eligibility requirements for any flights they purchase. About Air Canada Air Canada is Canada's largest airline, the country's flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world's most comprehensive air transportation network. Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada's Aeroplan program is Canada's premier travel loyalty program, where members can earn or redeem points on the world's largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers more travel choices than any other Canadian tour operator to hundreds of destinations worldwide, with a wide selection of hotels, flights, cruises, day tours, and car rentals. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada's passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada's climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. For additional information, please see Air Canada's TCFD disclosure. Air Canada shares are publicly traded on the TSX in Canada and the OTCQX in the US. SOURCE Air Canada
Vancouver Sun
09-06-2025
- Business
- Vancouver Sun
Air Canada adds new flights to popular European destinations
Air Canada's inaugural flight from Montreal to Porto, Portugal, on June 4 has added to the air carrier's growing list of new and existing European destinations. 'We are delighted to be returning to Porto, marking our newest Europe route this summer and second destination in Portugal,' said Mark Galardo, executive vice – president and chief commercial officer and president, cargo. 'We design routes like this one to appeal to our customers throughout our North American network, with convenient travel options at our Montreal hub. A world heritage city and gateway to Portugal's northern region, Porto offers an array of history, culture, outdoor adventures and gastronomic experiences.' Air Canada 's return to Porto complements its existing flights from Montreal and Toronto to Lisbon. Other new European routes announced for this summer include the launch of its Naples route in May and the return of the Ottawa to London LHR route in April. In addition, Air Canada recently launched its Toronto to Prague route, while the carrier's Montreal to Edinburgh route is set to launch at the end of the month. Plan your next getaway with Travel Time, featuring travel deals, destinations and gear. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Travel Time will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. The Porto flights will be operated on Air Canada's Airbus 330-300. Customers can choose from three classes of service: economy, premium economy and Air Canada signature class, offering customers superior comfort and convenience in an exclusive cabin, with spacious lie-flat seating, personalized service, fine cuisine, extra baggage allowance and access to priority airport services.
