The partnership between Emirates and Air Canada is preparing for an important new phase as both airlines agree to expand and extend their cooperation through a new multi year plan. This development builds on the progress made since the start of their strategic partnership in 2022. In just three years, the partnership has supported travel for more than half a million passengers and created a strong link between Canada, the United States, Dubai, and many global destinations.
With a new memorandum of understanding now signed, the cooperation between the two airlines will be extended until December 31, 2032. This long term commitment shows that both carriers see great value in continuing to work together to improve travel options, cargo services, and business opportunities in both countries.
A Growing Partnership With Strong Results
Since its launch, the Emirates and Air Canada partnership has grown at a steady pace. It began with the goal of improving connectivity and creating easier travel between Canada and the United Arab Emirates. Over time, it expanded into a large network of codeshare routes and interline services. Today, customers can travel smoothly through 56 connected routes that cover North America, the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
More than 550000 customers have used the joint network. This means that nearly 500 people every day fly across the combined routes of the two airlines.
Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer and President, Cargo at Air Canada, shared his support for the next phase of the partnership. He explained that the agreement helps Air Canada strengthen its international operations and maintain daily flights between Toronto and Dubai. He also highlighted how important this connection is for passengers with family, cultural, and business ties across several regions.
Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates, also spoke about the success of the partnership. He explained that the cooperation has given great results and that the extended agreement will create new opportunities for expanding customer services and cargo operations in the future.
What the Extension to 2032 Means
The extension of the partnership until 2032 is an important decision for both airlines. It includes several improvements that will make the cooperation deeper and more effective.
Expanded codeshare operations
The two airlines plan to add more routes to their shared network. This will allow passengers to book flights on both airlines using one ticket while enjoying smooth connections and better travel schedules.
Better loyalty benefits
Loyal customers of both airlines will be able to earn and redeem more miles or points across a wider range of destinations. Emirates Skywards and Air Canada Aeroplan members will also have the option to redeem points in Premium Economy cabins in the future.
Stronger cargo cooperation
Cargo is an important part of the expansion. The airlines are studying a possible joint venture focused on cargo activities. This will help support the movement of goods between North America, the Middle East, and Asia.
New Canadian gateways
Both carriers are considering adding more cities in Canada to the partnership network in the coming years. This will give more travelers easy access to international destinations.
Preparation for operational changes in Dubai
As Dubai prepares to move operations to Dubai World Central after 2032, Emirates and Air Canada will coordinate their plans to ensure smooth airport transitions for passengers.
A Better Travel Experience for Customers
The improvements in the partnership will bring several benefits to customers. With stronger coordination between the two airlines, travel becomes easier, more flexible, and more comfortable.
Wider access to global destinations
Emirates customers can access 37 destinations in Canada and the United States through Air Canada. Air Canada customers can reach 19 destinations across the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and the Indian subcontinent with Emirates. The network is still growing, with new additions every year.
Enhanced loyalty features
Aeroplan members can earn and redeem points on all Emirates flights. Emirates Skywards members can earn and redeem miles on all Air Canada flights. Both programs plan to offer redemptions for Premium Economy cabins in the future.
Better experience at Dubai International Airport
Since 2022, Air Canada has moved its operations to Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport, where Emirates operates. This has improved connections significantly. Eligible passengers of Air Canada now have access to Emirates Business Class Lounges, along with many other airport facilities.
Strengthening Cargo and Trade Flows
The partnership is not only focused on passengers. Air cargo plays an essential role in connecting businesses, and the cooperation between the two airlines supports faster and more reliable trade.
Trade between Canada and the United Arab Emirates continues to grow. Canadian exports have shown steady increases, and strong air cargo links help Canadian companies deliver goods to new markets. Emirates has reported rising cargo volumes from Canada, reflecting the importance of this partnership for logistics and trade.
By exploring a cargo joint venture and improving coordination, the airlines are preparing for even greater trade growth in the future.
Boosting Tourism and Cultural Travel
Tourism between Canada and the United Arab Emirates has increased due to better flight access. Dubai is a popular destination for Canadians who seek luxury tourism, business opportunities, and cultural experiences. Emirates operates daily Airbus A380 flights to Toronto and regular Boeing 777 flights to Montreal, creating more travel options for passengers.
Canada also attracts travelers from Dubai and neighboring regions. Many visitors travel for education, business, family visits, or tourism. The improved airline partnership makes these trips easier and more convenient.
The cooperation also benefits families with strong ties across continents, supporting smoother travel between Canada, the Middle East, and South Asia.
Airline Networks and Fleet Connections
Air Canada operates daily Boeing 787 Dreamliner flights between Toronto and Dubai. Emirates operates the Airbus A380 from Toronto and the Boeing 777 on the Dubai to Montreal route. Both airlines have access to more than 225 destinations worldwide through combined interline connections.
This large network gives passengers more travel choices and enhances the position of both airlines in global aviation.
Looking Ahead
The expansion of the Emirates and Air Canada partnership is a long term plan that will shape travel for the next decade. The cooperation strengthens both passenger and cargo services, connecting more cities and supporting stronger economic and cultural ties.
Travelers can expect more destinations, better loyalty rewards, simpler travel connections, expanded cargo options, and improved customer service.
The partnership is positioned to play a key role in supporting global mobility, tourism, and trade between Canada, the United Arab Emirates, and many other regions.
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