Toronto, Ontario — December 17, 2025 — Leads & Copy — Air Transat, the 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline as voted by Skytrax, launched its inaugural flights to Istanbul, Türkiye (IST) and Georgetown, Guyana (GEO) on December 16. The new routes originate from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), further strengthening Air Transat’s network from this key hub. Flight TS164 to Georgetown departed in the early evening, and Flight TS214 to Istanbul followed later that night.
“Introducing Istanbul and Georgetown from Toronto is a strategic step in diversifying our offer while serving travellers flying to visit friends and family,” said Sebastian Ponce, Transat’s Chief Revenue Officer. Ponce added that the Istanbul route unlocks a world of onward possibilities through the airline’s partnership with Turkish Airlines, while the Georgetown route strengthens ties with Canada’s Guyanese community. He stated that together, these routes invite discovery and deliver the seamless comfort that defines Air Transat.
Kurush Minocher, Chief Commercial Officer, Toronto Pearson, said that they are proud to welcome Air Transat’s continued growth at Toronto Pearson with new non-stop flights to Istanbul and Georgetown. Minocher stated that these services make it easier for passengers to reach new destinations, explore opportunities for leisure and business, and strengthen connections around the world, while reinforcing Toronto Pearson’s role as a leading global hub.
The Toronto–Istanbul route offers year-round service with flights on Tuesdays, Saturdays, and an additional Thursday flight starting in May 2026. Travellers gain access to Istanbul and can connect to destinations across Türkiye, Asia, and beyond, via new codeshare and interline agreements with Turkish Airlines.
Chief Commercial Officer Server Aydın, iGA Istanbul Airport, said that Air Transat’s arrival into Istanbul strengthens global connectivity and strategic connections with the Americas. Aydın added that the new route will enhance prospects for both tourism and trade between Turkey and Canada, while reinforcing Istanbul’s growing role in the international aviation ecosystem.
The Toronto–Georgetown service has been extended to May 29, 2026, and operates twice weekly on Tuesdays and Fridays. Air Transat serves this route with its Airbus A321LR, ensuring travelers enjoy a smooth journey to Guyana.
Mr. Sanjeev Datadin, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), said that the addition of this service reflects the deliberate, long-term approach being taken to increase Guyana’s airlift. Datadin added that at the board level, they remain focused on building strong airline partnerships, ensuring sound governance, and supporting investments that position CJIA to meet future demand while maintaining international standards.
The new routes also benefit from connections through Air Transat’s joint venture with Porter Airlines, making it easier for travelers from cities across Canada to connect through Toronto and reach these destinations.
Marie-Christine Pouliot
Manager, Public Relations & Content Marketing
marie-christine.pouliot@transat.com
Source: Air Transat
