Air Transat launches nonstop Toronto, Montreal flights to Rio de Janeiro

Air Transat operated its first flights to Rio de Janeiro (GIG) this week, launching new nonstop service from Toronto Pearson (YYZ) and Montréal–Trudeau (YUL).

Flight TS272 departed Toronto on Wednesday, Feb. 4, while flight TS274 took off from Montreal on Thursday, Feb. 5. 

With the new routes, Air Transat becomes the only airline offering nonstop service between Montreal and Rio de Janeiro.

The Toronto–Rio de Janeiro route will operate twice weekly (Wednesdays and Saturdays) until June 10, 2026. 

The Montreal–Rio de Janeiro service will run once weekly (Thursdays) until June 4, 2026. Both routes are operated on the Airbus A330.

“Inaugurating our non-stop service to Rio de Janeiro from both Toronto and Montreal is a bold step in expanding our South American offering,” said Sebastian Ponce, Transat’s chief revenue officer. 

“These routes create a direct bridge between Canada and Brazil, making it easier for travellers to experience Rio's vibrant culture and for families and friends to reunite across continents. And as the only airline offering a non-stop flight from Montreal to Rio, we are proud to provide an exclusive option that brings Canadians and Brazilians closer together.”

“Travel between Canada and Rio de Janeiro is a growing market, with 44,000 passengers travelling annually between these two markets, nearly half of which arrive and depart from Toronto Pearson,” said Kurush Minocher, chief commercial officer, Toronto Pearson. 

“Air Transat's new non-stop service responds directly to this momentum and gives our passengers even more options to reach Brazil and the legendary skyline of Rio de Janeiro. We're proud to support this route and the opportunities it creates for both business and leisure travellers.”

“ADM Aéroports de Montréal is delighted to welcome this first non-stop service to Rio de Janeiro, operated by our partner Air Transat,” said Karl Brochu, vice president, airport operations and air service development at ADM. 

“This new route will give travellers the chance to discover a destination known for its vibrant culture and remarkable diversity. Beyond boosting tourism, this connection will also strengthen economic, cultural, and family ties between Quebec and Brazil. We extend our sincere thanks to all the Air Transat teams who worked tirelessly to bring this route to life.”

“Air Transat will commence regular operations in Brazil for the first time, with RIOgaleão and the 'Marvelous City' as its gateway to the country,” added Alexandre Monteiro, CEO of RIOgaleão. 

“In addition to expanding connectivity with Toronto, the airline will introduce Montreal as a new international destination from Tom Jobim International Airport. This investment in Rio de Janeiro underscores the strength of the local market and the city's appeal on the global stage.”

Air Transat also noted that travellers can connect onward from Galeão International Airport (GIG) through its interline partnership with GOL Airlines, with access to destinations across Brazil and South America, including São Paulo, Porto Alegre, Recife, Salvador and Belo Horizonte.

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