Emirates and Air Canada Announce Major Expansion of Strategic Partnership Through 2032

Air Canada, Emirates

A Partnership Strengthening Global Travel Networks

Emirates and Air Canada have announced a major expansion and early renewal of their strategic partnership, marking a transformative milestone for international air travel. The extended agreement, now set to run until 31 December 2032, will enhance global connectivity, increase customer benefits and strengthen trade links between Canada, the UAE and key destinations across the Middle East, Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent.

Since its launch in 2022, the collaboration has connected more than 550,000 travellers across 56 codeshare routes, creating one of the world’s most seamless international travel networks. With this strengthened partnership, passengers can expect even more routing options, improved services and expanded access to premium travel experiences.

 

Enhanced Experience for Travellers Across Both Airlines

The newly expanded agreement will bring an array of customer-focused improvements to the global travel journey. Eligible passengers will enjoy enhanced priority services and premium travel experiences at more airports, with coordinated operations designed to provide smoother and faster transfers.

The partnership will also continue to offer valuable reciprocal loyalty benefits. Emirates Skywards members and Air Canada Aeroplan members can earn and redeem miles or points across both airlines’ global networks, which span more than 225 destinations worldwide. Plans are underway to extend redemptions to each airline’s Premium Economy cabins, creating even more choice for frequent flyers.

A notable development includes improved coordination as operations prepare for Emirates’ future relocation to Dubai World Central – Maktoum International Airport (DWC), expected after 2032. This long-term alignment reinforces the airlines’ commitment to delivering a unified customer experience.

 

Boosting Cargo Cooperation and International Trade

Beyond passenger services, the expanded partnership will significantly strengthen trade and cargo flow between North America and global markets. Emirates and Air Canada are also exploring a potential joint venture dedicated to cargo operations to modernise and streamline shipments worldwide.

The enhanced cargo collaboration is set to facilitate increased two-way trade between the Americas and the Middle East, Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Since the original agreement, Canadian exports have grown notably, with cargo tonnage on Emirates flights rising 37 per cent year-over-year.

The strengthened air connectivity supports Canada’s growing bilateral trade with the UAE, which rose to CAD $3.3 billion in 2024. With Dubai serving as a global logistics hub, the renewed partnership will unlock new opportunities for Canadian businesses and investors.

 

Expanding Airline Networks for Seamless Travel

Travellers will benefit from an even broader network of destinations, including potential new gateways within Canada. The codeshare currently connects Emirates passengers to 37 destinations in Canada and the U.S., with recent additions such as:

• Toronto to Minneapolis
• Montréal to Calgary
• Vancouver to Los Angeles

Air Canada also places its code on 19 Emirates-operated routes across some of the world’s most in-demand destinations.

Together, the airlines now provide access to more than 225 destinations globally through their codeshare and interline cooperation, offering smooth transfers and increased travel flexibility.

 

Leaders From Both Airlines Highlight the Partnership’s Success

Senior leaders from Emirates and Air Canada have hailed the renewed agreement as a milestone for global travel, reinforcing shared commitments to innovation, customer service and international growth.

Air Canada emphasised the value of the partnership in strengthening its Dubai route and supporting customers with ties to the Middle East, Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Emirates lauded the collaboration for enabling network expansion, elevating guest experiences and driving trade between the two nations.

As the partnership enters a new decade, both airlines look forward to deeper integration and continued innovation to meet the evolving needs of global travellers.

For event, travel and aviation news, visit:
Emirates: www.emirates.com
Air Canada: www.aircanada.com

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