We often get asked for tips on flying to Canada from Australia. There are lots of choices you can take with direct, indirect or some out of the way routes that might just suit your needs. At YourTrip we don’t sell airfares as your travel agent or airline are experts in that area, however we thought we would sum up the key ways to get from Australia to Vancouver. Hopefully this short guide answers some of your questions and helps you visit Canada a little easier.
Non-Stop Flying to Canada
The number of direct links between Australia and Canada are rather limited. Air Canada is the only airline providing year round non stop connection between the two countries. Air Canada flies it’s Boeing 777-200LR across the pacific between Vancouver and Sydney each day with business and economy class seating. Air Canada are also considering a second Australian destination with Brisbane rumoured to be the next addition to their route map.
Qantas also offers a seasonal direct service between Sydney and Vancouver for a few weeks during summer and winter on a Boeing 747-400. Qantas provides economy, premium economy and economy seating on a limited number of fights during these seasons.
These direct flights to Canada are the quickest way to get between Sydney and Vancouver. Unfortunately, if you don’t live in Sydney there are no direct flights but plenty of connecting options.
One Stop Flight Routes
Qantas, United, Virgin Australia and Delta airlines all fly daily between various east coast capital cities including Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane to either Los Angeles or San Francisco. Launching in December 2015, American Airlines will also join the Sydney to Los Angeles roster of airlines with a daily service while Qantas will join the Sydney to San Francisco route. Once in the United States you need to clear immigration before transferring to your onwards flight to multiple destinations within Canada. You will need either a visa or visa waiver for the United States if you wish to transit via the USA.
Air New Zealand offers direct services between Auckland and Vancouver three days a week with easy connections from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth. Onboard the 777-200 Air New Zealand offer business, premium economy and economy seating between Auckland and Canada. Transit in New Zealand does not require a change in terminals and this service avoids the need to transit the USA, saving the cost of a US visa waiver.
Flying to Canada with an Asian Stopover
Many airlines across Asia service both Vancouver and Australian ports. This offers an alternative route for flying to Canada and the option of having a stopover in Asia on your way to or from Canada. Airlines include Cathay Pacific from Hong Kong, Air China from Beijing, China Southern from Guangzhou, Japan Airlines from Tokyo or Asiana and Korean Air from Seoul.
Tips for Flying to Canada
When considering which route you’ll take to Canada it’s important to consider all options available. The cheapest might appear attractive but might take twice as long as a slightly more expensive fare. Don’t forget that your time is valuable so consider whether a slightly more expensive flight that saves you time offers better value. Our final tip is to join the frequent flyer program of whichever airline you choose to fly as the points you earn might make your next holiday a little closer.
Now you know how to fly to Canada, you should really see what there is to do when you get there with our destination guides or tour programs.