DOTr in talks for additional direct PH-Canada flights

Talks are ongoing for additional direct flights between the Philippines and Canada, with Air Canada exploring possible Asia-Pacific routes, according to the Department of Transportation (DOT.

According to a statement on Tuesday, the matter was discussed by Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista and Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman.

“We are ramping up linkages with other international destinations. Our aim is to launch and expand new routes of flight networks in various parts of the world,” said Bautista.

“It will contribute not only to our economic growth but also to the growth of both of our societies,” Bautista told Hartman.

Meanwhile, the ambassador noted that additional flights may be able to address the increasing demand for flights to and from the North American region.

Earlier, the DOTr also announced a partnership with Air France to host direct flights from the Philippines to France starting December 8.

''The direct non-stop service between the Philippines and France will probably most likely boost tourism exchanges between our two countries and more generally with the European Union,'' said Marie Fontanel, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic Marie Fontanel.

The partnerships were part of the DOTr’s initiative to “provide travelers flexibility in going to more international destinations while attracting drones of foreign tourists to explore the country.”
—Jiselle Anne Casucian/RF, GMA Integrated News