Air Canada Collaborates with Canadian Government for Repatriation Flights from Israel
In a coordinated effort with the Government of Canada, Air Canada has announced the operation of two special flights on October 13 and 14 from Athens, aimed at repatriating Canadians and permanent residents from Israel
Air Canada Collaborates with Canadian Government for Repatriation Flights from Israel
In a coordinated effort with the Government of Canada, Air Canada has announced the operation of two special flights on October 13 and 14 from Athens, aimed at repatriating Canadians and permanent residents from Israel. As part of this arrangement, the Canadian government will facilitate military flights from Tel Aviv to Athens. Once in Athens, passengers will then board Air Canada's special flights destined for Toronto.
Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive at Air Canada, expressed the airline's commitment to ensuring the safe return of Canadians from Israel, despite the current challenges preventing regular flights to Tel Aviv. He emphasized Air Canada's long-standing relationship with Israel, having operated flights since 1995, and reassured that commercial operations would resume once stability is restored in the region.
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, expressed gratitude towards Air Canada for their assistance in this repatriation effort. The Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Transport and Quebec Lieutenant, also acknowledged the challenges faced by Canadians in the region and commended Air Canada and its staff for their dedication to this cause.
For those interested in these repatriation flights:
- Air Canada will deploy wide-body aircraft with a capacity of 300 seats for the flights departing from Athens to Toronto on October 13 and 14.
- Global Affairs Canada is overseeing local arrangements in Israel and will provide special codes for Canadians wishing to return. Those interested should contact Global Affairs Canada for this code.
- Air Canada customers with unused return tickets can exchange them for travel on these special repatriation flights.
- Passengers without an existing ticket can purchase one on Air Canada's website using the provided Government code.
Air Canada has temporarily suspended flights to Tel Aviv until October 31, 2023, due to the evolving situation. The airline is closely monitoring developments and plans to resume operations once stability is achieved. A goodwill policy has been implemented, allowing passengers with bookings to/from Tel Aviv to modify their travel plans, including refund options. Under regular operations, Air Canada offers 10 weekly flights to Tel Aviv from both Toronto and Montreal.
Air Canada flight AC2021 is scheduled to arrive from Athens at Toronto-Pearson early Friday evening. For media inquiries related to filming at Toronto-Pearson, please refer to the official Toronto-Pearson website.
About Air Canada: Air Canada, Canada's flag carrier and largest airline, is a founding member of the Star Alliance. The airline offers direct services to over 180 airports across Canada, the U.S., and six other continents. Recognized with a Four-Star ranking by Skytrax, Air Canada's Aeroplan program stands as Canada's leading travel loyalty program. The airline is also committed to achieving net-zero emissions from all global operations by 2050.
