Air Canada announced this Wednesday the launch of its first seasonal winter service to Sapporo, becoming the only airline to offer direct flights between North America and the capital of Hokkaido. The new route will begin operations in December 2026 and will run until March 2027, aligning with the peak Japanese winter season and some of its most globally renowned tourist events.
The service will connect Vancouver with Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport, reinforcing both Air Canada’s international network and the strategic positioning of Vancouver as one of the continent’s main transpacific hubs.
Sapporo: A Key Destination for Japanese Winter
Direct arrival in Sapporo opens up non-stop access to Hokkaido prefecture, a globally recognized destination for:
- Exceptional powder snow conditions, highly valued by ski and snowboard tourism
- The Sapporo Snow Festival, one of Asia’s most iconic winter events
- Internationally renowned Onsen (hot springs)
- A distinctive culinary scene within Japan
With this addition, Air Canada expands its offerings beyond traditional Japanese urban hubs, betting on premium, experiential leisure tourism with strong seasonal demand.
→ Air Canada Launches Seasonal Flights Between Toronto and Rio de Janeiro
Global Network, Travel Times, and Connectivity
Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer and President, Cargo at Air Canada, highlighted that the new route: “Strengthens Air Canada’s global network with the addition of Sapporo, a premier winter destination in northern Japan.”
Galardo also underscored the role of the Vancouver hub, which with this operation solidifies its position as the second-largest Pacific gateway in North America, supported by sustained demand for premium travel to Japan.
One of the most relevant operational points is time savings:
- Thanks to Vancouver’s geographical proximity, the new flights will allow for a reduction of over two hours of travel time per leg to Sapporo.
- For passengers in Hokkaido, it will be the only non-stop and fastest option to reach North America.
From Vancouver, travelers will have connections to over 45 destinations in Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
Operations and Fleet
The Vancouver-Sapporo service will be operated with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, one of Air Canada’s long-haul workhorses. The offering will include: Signature Class, Premium Economy, and Economy.
The frequency will be three weekly flights, exclusively during the winter season, between December 2026 and March 2027. Tickets are now available through the airline’s usual channels.
Japan in Air Canada’s Network: Consolidated Leadership
With this new route, Air Canada reinforces its position as the leading airline in capacity between Canada and Japan, offering the most seats in this market. The service to Sapporo complements a network that already includes:
- Year-round flights to Tokyo-Narita and Tokyo-Haneda
- Seasonal summer services to Osaka-Kansai
In terms of product, the airline continues to differentiate itself in the premium segment by offering, on all its flights between Canada and Japan, the Signature Class menu designed by Michelin-starred chef Masaki Hashimoto.
Air Canada’s new winter route to Sapporo is not just a network expansion, but a strategic decision combining premium tourism, operational efficiency, and strengthening of the Vancouver hub.
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