Air Transat, WestJet Cut US Routes on Weak Demand

Air Transat and WestJet have scaled back their US networks amid weakening transborder travel demand, with Air Transat suspending multiple Florida routes and WestJet cutting ten US services from its schedule.

Air Transat will suspend flights from Montréal to Orlando International starting May 4 and to Fort Lauderdale International from June 3. Services between Québec City and Fort Lauderdale will also end on May 30. The carrier had operated up to nine US routes in March 2025, including double-daily flights to Florida at peak periods.

A company spokesperson said the move reflects proactive capacity management as the airline reallocates resources to markets where it holds a stronger competitive position. The decision on whether Florida services will resume for the autumn and winter season will be evaluated at a later stage, depending on demand trends.

WestJet has also reduced its US footprint, removing ten routes from its schedule. The cuts include three routes from Edmonton International, three from Vancouver International, and one each from Halifax, Montréal, Toronto Pearson, and Winnipeg International. The airline cited a sustained decline in Canada-US travel demand throughout 2025, adding that there are currently no clear signs of a near-term rebound.

The pullback highlights broader shifts in cross-border travel patterns, with Canadian carriers adjusting capacity in response to softer booking trends. Airlines on both sides of the border have faced fluctuating demand influenced by economic pressures, currency movements, and evolving consumer travel preferences.

By trimming underperforming routes, Air Transat and WestJet aim to protect yields and optimise aircraft utilisation during a period of market uncertainty. Both airlines continue to monitor booking data and seasonal trends as they refine their networks for upcoming travel periods.

The route reductions mark a notable recalibration of Canada-US air services, particularly to Florida, traditionally one of the strongest leisure markets for Canadian travellers. Whether demand rebounds in late 2026 will likely determine if carriers restore suspended routes or continue to focus on alternative international and domestic markets.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com