Air Canada Announces Historic Winter Service to Sapporo from Vancouver
Air Canada has revealed groundbreaking plans to launch the first-ever winter seasonal flights connecting North America directly to Sapporo, Japan. This exclusive non-stop service will commence in December 2026, marking a significant expansion of the airline's trans-Pacific network and providing unprecedented access to one of Asia's most celebrated winter destinations.
Exclusive North American Gateway to Japan's Winter Wonderland
The new route will operate three times weekly from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Sapporo's Chitose Hokkaido Airport (CTS), utilizing Air Canada's modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. This service represents the only direct connection between Sapporo and the North American continent, positioning Vancouver as North America's second-largest Pacific gateway.
Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer at Air Canada, emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion: "Air Canada's global network is further strengthened by the addition of Sapporo, a premier winter leisure destination in Japan's northern Hokkaido prefecture. This new service reinforces our Vancouver hub while meeting strong premium leisure demand to Japan."
Unlocking Japan's Northern Treasures
The seasonal service, running from December 2026 through March 2027, will provide travelers with direct access to Hokkaido's world-renowned winter attractions:
- Exceptional powder snow conditions for skiing and snowboarding
- The iconic Sapporo Snow Festival featuring spectacular ice sculptures
- Authentic Japanese hot springs (onsen) for relaxation
- Culinary adventures including Sapporo's legendary ramen and beer
- Cultural experiences unique to Japan's northernmost main island
Galardo highlighted the convenience factor: "Leveraging Vancouver's geographic proximity, Air Canada's new flights provide the fastest way to reach Sapporo, saving more than two hours travel time each way. For customers in Hokkaido, this offers the only non-stop and fastest connection to North America."
Strengthening Canada-Japan Relations
The new air link has received enthusiastic support from diplomatic and aviation leaders. His Excellency Ian McKay, Ambassador of Canada to Japan, noted: "By making it easier for travellers to experience world-class winter sports and tourism in both countries, this new connection will bring Canadians and Japanese closer together, strengthening long-standing people-to-people ties and creating new economic opportunities."
Tamara Vrooman, President and CEO of Vancouver International Airport, added: "This new route builds on YVR's strategy as a key Trans-Pacific hub, further strengthening the deep trade, economic, and cultural ties between Canada and Japan, while providing additional travel and cargo options."
Enhanced Travel Experience and Connectivity
Passengers will enjoy multiple cabin options including Signature Class, Premium Economy, and Economy classes. The service will facilitate connections to over 45 destinations across Canada, the United States, and Mexico through Air Canada's Vancouver hub.
Seats are currently available for purchase through aircanada.com, travel agents, and Air Canada Contact Centres. This historic route expansion solidifies Air Canada's position as the carrier offering the most non-stop Japanese destinations from the North American mainland, while providing Aeroplan members with another coveted travel opportunity.
