Zipair Tokyo has announced it will begin nonstop service between Tokyo Narita and Toronto Pearson International Airport starting March 2, 2027. This move introduces new low-cost options for travelers moving between Japan and Canada’s largest economic hub, marking a significant expansion for the airline's North American network.

How will the new service operate?

The airline will initially launch the route with three roundtrips per week. According to the carrier, flight frequency is scheduled to increase to four times weekly starting March 29, 2027. The flights will utilize Boeing 787 aircraft to connect the two major international hubs.

Read also Air Canada to deploy Dreamliners on 11 long-haul routes

As a value-focused carrier, Zipair uses a model where passengers pay for specific amenities. While ticket prices may appear lower, travelers should account for additional costs, including:

  • Checked baggage
  • In-flight meals
  • Seat selection
  • Carry-on luggage exceeding 7kg

Growing demand for Japan-Canada travel

This expansion comes as the market for travel between the two nations continues to rise. Market data cited by Aviation Week indicates that roughly 1.22 million passengers flew between Japan and Canada in the year ending June 2026, a jump of almost 20% from the year before.

Toronto has emerged as a critical destination, drawing about 338,400 passengers from across Japan over that period, an increase of 24.5%. The airline expects to meet demand from several key groups, such as international students, business travelers, and tourists looking to visit Niagara Falls or the wider Ontario region.

What does this mean for competition?

Zipair will be the first Japanese airline to operate this specific route, which is currently served nonstop only by Air Canada. This entry adds approximately 71,900 seats to the Tokyo-Toronto corridor for the 2027 northern summer season.

While new competition does not automatically guarantee lower prices, it provides more scheduling options for passengers. The move follows the launch of Zipair's Kuala Lumpur route in October 2026 and marks the carrier's 11th total route.

FAQ

When can I book these flights?

Ticket sales for the Toronto route opened on November 12, 2026, for travel through October 30, 2027.

Is this the only Japanese airline flying to Toronto?

While other Japanese carriers fly to Canada, Zipair will be the first from Japan to offer nonstop service specifically to Toronto.