Canadian Airlines Expand Routes to United States Despite Decrease in Travel Demand
As the first quarter of 2026 begins, Canadian airlines have removed 450,000 seats for travel to the United States. However, some airlines are defying this current trend and continuing to expand their routes. American Airlines, for example, has recently added new routes to Canadian hubs including Calgary International Airport and Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport, both of which depart from John F. Kennedy Airport.
Even Canadian airlines are betting on a rebound in travel to the United States. Porter Airlines has added two new seasonal routes to the U. S. from Ottawa International Airport, with flights to Miami and Phoenix.
United Airlines has also joined in on this trend by expanding its routes to Canada. Despite the decrease in travel demand, United has increased passenger capacity to the U. S. at a Canadian hub last year.
New United Airlines Flight to Halifax Stanfield International Airport
United Airlines has announced a new summer seasonal flight operating once a week between Halifax Stanfield International Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport. This new flight adds to United’s existing daily flight to Chicago O’Hare International Airport and two flights to Newark International Airport at the Halifax hub.
Delta Air Lines is also taking advantage of the success of Halifax Stanfield International Airport for U. S. visits with a new summer seasonal service to Boston from June to October. Delta already has an existing flight from Halifax to LaGuardia in New York. American Airlines is not adding any new flights to Halifax but will continue its current routes from 2025.
Halifax Stanfield International Airport Sees Increase in U. S.
According to Canadian Aviation News, Halifax Stanfield International Airport experienced a 19. 3% increase in international visitors in 2025. The airport also managed to defy the national trend of reduced travel to the United States, with an 8. 5% growth in passenger volumes in 2025 compared to 2024.
The airport expects even greater growth in 2026 with the addition of new flights. Joyce Carter, President & CEO of Halifax International Airport Authority, stated, “Our strong results from 2025 highlight Halifax Stanfield’s growing role as a Canadian gateway, not only for Atlantic Canadians but also for global travelers.
Carter added that the airport anticipates even more promising results in 2026 with its current 57 non-stop year-round and seasonal flights to destinations around the world. She also expressed pride in the airport’s team, partnerships, and the growing confidence airlines have in Halifax as an important Canadian gateway.
Halifax Stanfield International Airport Offers U. S.
One major perk of flying to the United States from Halifax Stanfield International Airport is the U. S. preclearance facility. This facility allows passengers to go through U. S. Customs and Border Protection before departing from Halifax, making travel to the U. S. as a domestic passenger much simpler. Other Canadian airports with U. S.