Air Transat is about to Launch Several New Routes to the US

Canadian leisure airline Air Transat has just released its winter 2019/2020 schedule and it includes several new routes to the US.

Starting in November 2019, the Quebec based carrier will become the only airline offering a direct flight between Montreal and New Orleans, Louisiana.

From the west coast of Canada, Air Transat will become the only airline to offer a non-stop twice-weekly service to Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Why New Orleans?

Fort Lauderdale and South Florida have always been a big market during the cold winter months for snowbirds looking to cut down on their heating bills at home.

For younger people, Florida offers warm tropical weather and a welcome escape from the freezing temperatures north of the 48.

In essence, a no-brainer for a Canadian leisure airline to add flights during the winter.

With its unique French-Esque culture, New Orleans appeals to Quebec’s French-speaking population more than any other city in the U.S.A.

Known as the birthplace of Jazz and famous for its Cajun and Creole cooking, New Orleans is a city full of surprises.

And let’s not forget Mardi Gras! Where better to go and let your hair down after being cooped inside all winter than the bars and music halls on Bourbon Street.

Starting November 3, 2019, Air Transat will offer, two flights per week on Thursdays and Sundays from Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.

I read that Air Transat is being sold!

Yes! That’s right, the airline is currently in talks with Air Canada over a possible merger following WestJet’s sale to Toronto based private equity firm Onyx.

Currently, the two Quebec based airlines are involved in a 30-day period of exclusive negotiations to see if they can agree to a deal.

Air Canada sees Air Transat as a way to not only expand domestically but as a way to expand the national carrier’s holiday travel business.

While everything seemed sweet and a deal most likely in the cards, Montreal property developer Group Mach threw a spanner in the works by offering Air Transat $1.00 per share more than Air Canada.

Resources:

https://www.airtransat.com/en-US/americas?search=flight&flightType=RT&pax=1-0-0-0

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_Transat