Air Transat has officially begun flying nonstop between Montreal-Trudeau International Airport and Istanbul, providing Quebec residents with a direct gateway to Türkiye. The inaugural flight, TS314, departed on October 29, 2026, establishing a year-round service that operates up to twice every week.

How does the new service work?

The airline uses Airbus A330 aircraft to bridge the gap between Montreal and Istanbul Airport (IST). While the service is intended to run year-round, travelers are encouraged to verify specific schedules before booking, as flight days may vary.

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Key features of the new route include:

  • Frequency: Up to two departures per week, with some schedules noting Thursday flights and selected Tuesdays starting in mid-December.
  • Connectivity: Through interline and codeshare agreements with Turkish Airlines, passengers can book onward travel to various locations in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
  • Efficiency: The direct route allows travelers to reach the Turkish hub without the need for an intermediate stop at another airport.

What does this mean for Canadian travelers?

This new Montreal to Istanbul flight service adds a second airline option for Canadians, joining the existing direct service provided by Turkish Airlines. By expanding into Montreal, Air Transat has increased its total weekly capacity to the region to five flights when combined with its Toronto-Istanbul route.

For those planning a larger itinerary, the partnership with Turkish Airlines allows travelers to include connecting flights on a single ticket. This arrangement can make the process of reaching destinations like Cappadocia or the Mediterranean coast much smoother, as checked baggage can be sent directly to the final destination.

FAQ

What are the entry requirements for Türkiye?

Those traveling with a standard Canadian passport can visit Türkiye without a visa for stays lasting up to 90 days within a 180-day window.

Can I reach Asia using this route?

Yes, the airline's partnership with Turkish Airlines enables passengers to connect from Istanbul to various markets throughout Asia.