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What is the best airline to use in Canada?

Top 5 popular airlines in Canada
  • Air Canada.
  • WestJet.
  • Air Transat.
  • Porter Airlines.
  • Flair Airlines.




For 2026, the "best" airline in Canada depends on whether you prioritize network reach or value. Air Canada remains the premier full-service choice, recently ranked as the 22nd safest airline in the world. It offers the most extensive domestic and international network, a modern fleet (including Boeing 787s and Airbus A220s), and the robust Aeroplan rewards program. For those seeking value and a more "friendly" corporate culture, WestJet is the top-ranked low-cost carrier in Canada (ranked 23rd globally for safety). WestJet has expanded significantly into long-haul international routes while maintaining a strong presence in Western Canada. For regional travel, Porter Airlines is highly regarded for its refined passenger experience and recent expansion of its jet fleet across the country. While Air Canada is the gold standard for global connectivity and perks, WestJet and Porter are often favored for their competitive pricing and customer-centric service models within North America.

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Corporate Profile. Air Canada is Canada's largest airline, the country's flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, and provides direct service to six continents.

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Most Canadian airlines are not flying high in a 2023 ranking of the safest carriers in the world. Safety monitor AirlineRatings.com reviewed 385 companies, selecting the top 20 safest major and low-cost airlines. Neither Air Canada nor Air Transat made it into this year's list. Westjet did, however, make the cut.

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“Canada is one of the most expensive places to operate an airline. Fees, taxes and charges for airports, air traffic control, security and other shared services are among the highest of any country.

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Based in Calgary, Alberta, WestJet is a Canadian airline that specializes in providing low-cost fares, generally on routes that involve at least one Canadian airport. The company was founded in 1994 and is owned by the Onex investment group.

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Additionally, in its annual ratings for 2022, APEX has reaffirmed Air Canada as a Five-Star Global Airline in the APEX Official Airline Ratings, based on customer feedback.

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WestJet seems to offer more opportunities for lounge access, as well as exclusive perks like companion vouchers. However, Air Canada has more destinations, which could be a make-or-break factor for your trip. Price-wise, the airlines seem to offer many of the same deals.

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