VANCOUVER, CANADA- Vancouver is set to gain a new long-haul leisure connection as Air Canada (AC) announces its first-ever winter seasonal service to Sapporo, Japan. The new route will operate from Vancouver International Airport (YVR), further strengthening the airline’s trans-Pacific network and expanding Canada’s direct access to northern Japan.
The new service will link Vancouver with Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport (CTS) and marks the only nonstop air connection between North America and Hokkaido. Air Canada confirmed the route will launch in December 2026, aligning with peak winter travel demand and Japan’s globally recognized snow season.
Photo: Anna Zvereva | Flickr
Air Canada Adds New Sapporo Route
Air Canada’s Vancouver–Sapporo flights will operate three times weekly during the winter season, running from December 2026 through March 2027. The airline has positioned the service as a premium leisure offering aimed at winter sports enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and culinary-focused visitors.
Sapporo becomes Air Canada’s newest destination in Japan, adding to its existing services to Tokyo and Osaka. The route also underscores the carrier’s strategy of targeting high-demand leisure markets with limited nonstop competition.
By offering the only direct flight from North America, Air Canada secures a first-mover advantage in a highly sought-after winter destination. The airline expects strong interest from both Canadian travelers and international visitors connecting through Vancouver.
Photo: KEVIN HACKERT | Flickr
Vancouver Hub Growth
The new route reinforces Vancouver’s role as Air Canada’s primary Pacific gateway and the second-largest trans-Pacific hub in North America.
Geographic proximity allows for shorter flight times to northern Japan, improving connectivity efficiency for passengers.
From Vancouver, travelers arriving from Sapporo will have access to onward connections across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The hub currently supports connections to more than 45 destinations, enhancing the appeal of the new service for inbound Japanese travelers.
Airport authorities have welcomed the announcement, highlighting the route’s contribution to tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
The service also adds incremental cargo capacity during the winter season, supporting trans-Pacific freight demand.
Photo: Air Canada
Aircraft And Product to Sopporo
Flights will be operated using Air Canada’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, offering Signature Class, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins.
The aircraft choice aligns with the airline’s long-haul efficiency strategy and supports passenger comfort on trans-Pacific sectors.
Signature Class passengers will have access to elevated dining, including menus influenced by Michelin-starred Chef Masaki Hashimoto on Canada–Japan routes. For winter travelers, Air Canada will continue to include ski and snowboard equipment within standard checked baggage allowances.
Seats for the new Sapporo service are already available for purchase through Air Canada’s booking channels. The airline has indicated that further details on its Winter 2026–2027 network expansion will be announced in the coming months.
Photo: Air Canada
Bottom Line
Air Canada’s new winter seasonal service to Sapporo adds a unique nonstop connection between North America and Hokkaido.
The route strengthens Vancouver’s Pacific hub role while opening a high-demand leisure market just in time for Japan’s peak winter season.
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