Direct flights between Canada and Budapest resume from now

Air Canada’s seasonal direct flights between Budapest and Toronto began service on June 6, running until October 24. Initially operating four times weekly, the route will increase to five flights per week during July and August. This marks the revival of a direct connection between the two cities after a hiatus since 2019, when Air Canada Rouge previously operated the service. Hungary’s State Secretary for Transport, Zsolt Tárkányi, called the new route a sign of strengthened transport links between Hungary and North America. He noted that the recently launched Budapest–Philadelphia route by American Airlines further highlights the growing importance of North American connections for Hungary. Budapest Airport reported nearly 90,000 annual passengers traveling between Hungary and Canada, indicating strong demand for the route. The airport expects the non-stop service to attract more leisure travelers, business passengers, and visitors connecting to family. François Berisot, CEO of Budapest Airport, described the Toronto route as one of the most anticipated new connections of the summer season, emphasizing its role in expanding access to a wider global network through Toronto. Passengers arriving in Toronto can connect to over 48 destinations across Canada and more than 100 locations in North America, including the Caribbean, Hawaii, and South America. Rocky Lo, Air Canada’s managing director of international sales, stated the airline is the only carrier offering a non-stop service between Budapest and Toronto, facilitating easier travel for families, tourists, and businesses. The new air link also benefits Hungary’s tourism sector, particularly Danube river cruises, which are popular among international visitors. Canadian Ambassador François Lafrenière highlighted the service’s significance for Hungary’s diaspora in Canada, estimated at 350,000 people, making family visits easier and fostering tourism and business cooperation between the two countries. The flights are operated using Air Canada’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, reinforcing the airline’s status as Hungary’s largest carrier and a founding member of the Star Alliance network.