Porter makes London, ON, debut with four sun routes

Porter Airlines is making its debut in London, ON, launching four non-stop routes to popular sun destinations this winter, with plans for a larger domestic network to follow in 2027.

Beginning in November, the carrier will connect London International Airport (YXU) with Fort Lauderdale and Orlando in Florida, followed by Cancun, Mexico, and Montego Bay, Jamaica, in December.

It marks the first time Porter has operated from London and represents a significant expansion of air service options for travellers across Southwestern Ontario.

“The introduction of Porter service at YXU will benefit more than two million people in the Greater London area who can now fly from their local airport,” said Michael Deluce, CEO of Porter, in a statement Wednesday (Aug. 26). 

“Travellers throughout the region deserve seamless, elevated travel options closer to home. The combination of southern and domestic flights is an opportunity to introduce them to Porter’s award-winning passenger experience, delivered with genuine care and hospitality.”

Four sun routes launching this winter

Porter’s London-Fort Lauderdale service will begin Nov. 18, operating up to four times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Flights between London and Orlando launch Nov. 19, with service three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

The airline will add two Caribbean and Mexican destinations the following month.

London-Cancun flights begin Dec. 17 and will operate up to four times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Service to Montego Bay starts Dec. 18, with flights operating twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays.

All four routes will be seasonal.

Domestic network planned for 2027

Porter’s arrival at YXU will extend beyond winter sun flying.

The airline said it is committed to building a domestic network from London by summer 2027, introducing year-round connections between the Southwestern Ontario city and destinations across Canada.

Specific routes and schedules will be announced at a later date.

"Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for air service in Southwestern Ontario. We are proud to welcome Porter Airlines to YXU and to celebrate an airline that will reshape connectivity for our region,” said Scott McFadzean, president and CEO, London International Airport, in a statement. 

“For years, our region has been underserved when it comes to air service, with residents and businesses often travelling outside the region to access the connectivity they need. Porter’s commitment to London is a strong vote of confidence in the strength of our market, our growing economy, and the people who call this region home.”

“It represents a commitment to rebuilding and strengthening air service in Southwestern Ontario while creating new opportunities for business, tourism, investment, and regional growth.”

“As we prepare for this exciting new chapter, we have also made a number of enhancements throughout the terminal to ensure travellers enjoy an airport experience that is easy, comfortable, and welcoming from the moment they arrive.”

E195-E2s to operate routes

Porter will operate all four winter routes using its 132-seat Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, which features a two-by-two configuration with no middle seats.

The airline’s economy experience includes complimentary beer and wine served in glassware, premium snacks and free WiFi.

Passengers booking PorterReserve receive an all-inclusive onboard experience that includes fresh meals and premium cocktails on longer flights, extra-legroom seating at the front of the cabin, dedicated check-in and boarding and two checked bags.

PorterClassic passengers can add many of the same benefits à la carte.

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