Air Canada Launching Vancouver-Dubai Flights

Image: Air Canada's service to Dubai (Photo Credit: Air Canada)
Image: Air Canada's service to Dubai (Photo Credit: Air Canada)
TravelPulse Staff
by TravelPulse Staff
Last updated: 8:00 PM ET, Thu October 26, 2023

Air Canada has announced a strategic international expansion with non-stop flights from its Vancouver hub (YVR) to Dubai. This all-new route will operate four times per week, starting on October 28, 2023—and will use the airline’s flagship Dreamliner fleet. These new flights will complement Air Canada’s existing daily service between its hub in Toronto (YYZ) 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,” said Mark Galardo, SVP, Network Planning and Revenue Management, at Air Canada. 

“Adding this new transportation link from Dubai will allow visitors to more easily and efficiently experience all B.C. has to offer,” said Rob Fleming, British Columbia Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.  

With this new route, British Columbia will be connected to a significant market, as the UAE ranks fifth in the world in terms of outbound expenditures on travel and tourism according to the UNWTO.  

Air Canada’s international onboard services showcase some of the country’s best culinary talent through the airline’s panel of celebrated chefs. These include 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. 

Travelers can collect and redeem points through Aeroplan, Canada’s leading loyalty program, when travelling with Air Canada. Additionally, 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-Dubai flights will be operated with Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft that feature three cabins of service—Signature Class (with lie-flat seats), Premium Economy, and Economy Class. Seats can be purchased at aircanada.com, via the Air Canada App, Air Canada’s Contact Centres, and travel agents. 

Flight schedules have also been specifically chosen to conveniently connect to and from destinations in Alberta, B.C., as well as the western U.S. via Air Canada’s hub at YVR. 

The outbound flight, AC78, departs YVR at 20:50 and lands the next day in DXB at 23:50. The outbound flight operates on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. 

The return flight, AC79, leaves DXB at 02:00 and arrives in YVR that same day at 05:55. These flights operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. 

 


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