Summary
- Porter Airlines adds new Toronto-Phoenix service using fuel-efficient Embraer E195-E2 aircraft.
- The flights begin in October, connecting passengers to Canadian cities such as Montréal, Ottawa, and Halifax.
- Porter’s unique economy experience includes perks like free Wi-Fi, in-seat power, complimentary alcoholic beverages, and snacks.
Canadian carrier Porter Airlines will launch its first-ever service between Toronto and Phoenix this fall. It comes as the airline has been expanding its transborder and coast-to-coast operation thanks to its fuel-efficient Embraer E195-E2 aircraft.
The route will also give travelers from Arizona increased connectivity throughout Canada to destinations such as Montréal, Ottawa, and Halifax. Porter will become the eighth international carrier to serve Phoenix and its fourth Canadian airline.
Flight details
The roundtrip daily service will begin on October 3rd. From Porter’s hub at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), PD641 will depart at 10:30 and arrive at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) at 12:01. The return flight, PD642, will leave PHX at 13:05 and land back at YYZ at 20:21.
|
Flight Number |
Origin |
Departure Time |
Destination |
Arrival Time |
Duration |
Equipment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
PD641 |
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) |
10:30 |
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) |
12:01 |
4 hours, 31 minutes |
Embraer E195-E2 |
|
PD642 |
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) |
13:05 |
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) |
20:21 |
4 hours, 16 minutes |
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Porter’s E195-E2s accommodate 132 passengers in a one-class 2-2 configuration. Passengers will enjoy an “unparalleled experience” with complimentary alcoholic beverages served in glassware and snacks. Free Wi-Fi and in-seat power are also available. Inflight entertainment (IFE) can be accessed by streaming through electronic devices.
Photo: Embraer
Porter offers two fare classes on its flights. PorterClassic offers the cheaper fares, but it comes with restrictions. The budget price option does not include carry-on bags or changes to flights. It also costs $12 to select a seat ahead of time, while checking a bag costs $40. PorterReserve comes with two free checked bags, waived change fees, and a seat in the front of the cabin with extra legroom. Other perks include priority check-in, premium pre-mixed cocktails, and fresh, healthy meals.
“Another exciting step”
Kevin Jackson, Porter’s President, commented on the new service between YYZ and PHX.
“This Toronto-Phoenix route connects two vibrant centres in North America, and gives passengers the opportunity to enjoy Porter’s unmatched economy experience on the route. Phoenix is another exciting step in our growth and the latest proof of our commitment to making flying better across the continent.”
Photo: Porter Airlines
Porter will compete with Air Canada, which operates the route daily. WestJet and Flair Airlines offer flights between the two destinations on a seasonal basis. Air Canada typically operates its service with Air Canada Rouge, the carrier’s low-cost subsidiary for leisure travelers, on Airbus A319 or A321 aircraft. Porter’s new service marks the first time YYZ-PHX will be operated by an Embraer aircraft in 15 years. Between 2008 and 2009, Air Canada deployed its E190s on the route before the aircraft were phased out of its fleet.
International growth in the Valley
Chad Makovsky, Aviation Director for the City of Phoenix, said the city is excited for more Canadian travelers to experience the 48th state.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Porter Airlines to Phoenix. Canada is an important economic partner for our state, and Canadian travel and investment has long been vital to our community. We’re excited to welcome Porter’s unique product to our market and for more Canadians to experience all that Arizona has to offer.”
International service at PHX has spiked since pandemic restrictions have eased. Air France inaugurated nonstop service from Paris just last month, while German carrier Condor Airlines resumed its summer seasonal service from Frankfurt. American Airlines, PHX’s largest carrier, also launched new service to Tijuana earlier this year.
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The inaugural flights were reportedly at full capacity.