A fresh link across the Atlantic now ties Quebec and Scotland closer than ever. Air Canada’s new direct Montreal–Edinburgh service is up and flying, promising to boost tourism, trade, and maybe even a few family reunions.
Nonstop Flights Bridge the Atlantic Gap
On June 26, Air Canada officially launched its nonstop Montreal–Edinburgh flights — the only direct route connecting Quebec with Scotland. Operated three times a week, the new service plugs Montreal into Edinburgh’s historic cobbled streets, vibrant festivals, and whisky bars.
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It’s no small feat: four Canadian cities now have direct links to the Scottish capital, broadening Air Canada’s European reach at a time when transatlantic travel is roaring back.
A Closer Look at the New Service
The Montreal–Edinburgh route uses Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft with 169 seats split across two classes. It’s seasonal, though — travellers will have until September 7 to hop on this direct flight before the autumn chill sets in.
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During peak travel weeks, Air Canada says it will offer more than 5,100 weekly seats between Canada and Scotland. That’s a hefty bump for leisure and business flyers alike.
Check out how the numbers stack up:
| Route | Aircraft | Frequency | Season Ends |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montreal–Edinburgh | Boeing 737 MAX 8 | 3 times per week | September 7 |
| Toronto–Edinburgh | Boeing 787 Dreamliner | Daily | October 25 |
Sources: Air Canada, Edinburgh Airport
Edinburgh Airport Welcomes Quebec Travellers
For Edinburgh Airport boss Gordon Dewar, the new link is about more than seats and schedules. “We’re delighted to welcome guests from Montreal to Scotland’s capital, offering them the chance to experience everything our fantastic city has to offer,” he said after the inaugural landing.
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Edinburgh’s summer festivals alone draw thousands from North America. For Quebecers, this direct hop means no more London layovers or time lost at European hubs.
Locals in the Scottish capital, meanwhile, are eyeing Quebec’s famed culture, food, and winter sports. Tartan meets poutine — what’s not to love?
Big Bet on UK–Canada Ties
Mark Galardo, Air Canada’s Executive VP and Chief Commercial Officer, called the route a strong signal of the airline’s commitment to the UK market. He pointed out that Montreal acts as a major North American hub for connecting travellers onward to Edinburgh and beyond.
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Basically, more direct flights mean more tourists for Edinburgh’s hotels, pubs and shops — and a smoother experience for folks heading the other way to Montreal’s vibrant food and arts scene.
Here’s what this means for both countries:
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Easier family visits for the Scottish diaspora in Quebec
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More options for business and cargo connections
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Fresh boost for tourism during Scotland’s busy festival season
Seasonal but Strategic
While the Montreal–Edinburgh flight won’t stick around all year, its peak-season timing is no accident. Scotland’s festival calendar, from the Edinburgh Fringe to the Royal Military Tattoo, draws massive crowds through the summer.
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Likewise, Air Canada’s daily Toronto–Edinburgh service will run until late October — catching late-season travellers before the winter slowdown.
So while these links are seasonal, they’re strategically slotted to catch the surge when people want to cross the pond.
More Seats, More Options
With this move, Air Canada’s beefed-up European network offers travellers more flexibility than ever. For Quebecers, it’s a direct path to explore castles, golf courses, and whisky distilleries. For Scots, it’s an invitation to roam Montreal’s cobbled streets, French bistros, and summer jazz fests.
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Who knows? Maybe this new bridge will inspire more students, entrepreneurs, and curious travellers to hop back and forth, bringing a little bagpipe flair to Old Montreal — or a touch of Quebec French to Edinburgh’s closes.
