Moneris: Canadians kept spending on flights in Q1

Airline spending in Canada rose 11 per cent in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year, even as overall consumer spending remained flat, according to Canadian commerce provider Moneris.

The increase suggests demand for travel is holding, but shifting. 

Average airline transaction size fell 13 per cent, pointing to shorter trips or more budget-conscious bookings.

Moneris’ data, based on transactions from Jan. 1 to March 31, 2026, shows total domestic spending in Canada dipped just 0.27 per cent year over year, reinforcing a broader trend of cautious but steady consumer behaviour.

The company paired its transaction data with an Angus Reid survey that found Canadians are increasingly concerned about the economy and planning to scale back non-essential spending.

“The Moneris data, when combined with the Angus Reid survey, shows that Canadians haven’t stopped spending altogether, but are more focused and selective when it comes to discretionary spend,"  said Sean McCormick, vice president of business development, data services at Moneris. 

"Businesses can adjust to a more cautious, pragmatic consumer by focusing on meaningful customer experiences that prioritize value and quality and reduce friction as much as possible."

Meanwhile, airline spending by foreign visitors in Canada surged 211 per cent year over year, even as overall foreign spending declined 1.81 per cent.

Spending patterns also shifted once travellers arrived. 

International visitors spent more on entertainment, up 21 per cent, and less on hotels, down nine per cent.

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