Porter Airlines adds non-stop flights from Ottawa and Toronto to Grand Cayman, starting December 2025, enhancing Canadian access to the Caribbean island.
New Flight Routes Boost Canadian Travel to the Caribbean
Porter Airlines has announced the launch of two new non-stop routes to the Cayman Islands, offering Canadian travellers direct access to the western Caribbean destination starting this December. The expanded service includes the first-ever direct flight from Ottawa to Grand Cayman, alongside a new route from Toronto.
December Debut for Ottawa and Toronto Departures
Service from Toronto Pearson International Airport to Owen Roberts International Airport begins on December 16, 2025, followed by the Ottawa-to-Grand Cayman route launching December 19. Both routes will be operated on Porter’s modern 132-seat Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, known for its comfortable two-by-two seating and no middle seats.
Partnership Built on Growing Canadian Demand
According to Raymond Mathias, Canadian Business Development Manager for the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism, the timing of the launch aligns with increased Canadian interest in the islands. In 2024, 30,077 Canadians visited the Cayman Islands—a 5.3% rise from the previous year. The trend continues into 2025, with seven record-setting months already reported.
“This partnership delivers on Canadians’ expectations for ease, comfort, and reliability,” said Mathias. “The strategic collaboration with Porter reflects a deep understanding of the Canadian travel market.”
Premium Travel Experience to Match a Premium Destination
Porter’s service model complements the Cayman Islands’ reputation as a refined yet accessible destination. Passengers can expect complimentary wine and beer served in glassware, free Wi-Fi for streaming, and premium Canadian snacks. Travellers may opt for PorterReserve for an all-inclusive experience with meals, extra legroom, and flexible booking, or choose PorterClassic with customizable add-ons.
Brad Cicero, spokesperson for Porter Airlines, noted the Cayman Islands fit Porter’s expansion goals. “We’re focused on offering more choices to premium leisure markets. Grand Cayman offers the variety and quality our passengers seek,” he said.
Strengthening Cultural and Economic Ties
Tourism accounts for nearly 75% of the Cayman Islands’ foreign currency earnings, and Canada is one of its top two sources of international visitors. Increased airlift is expected to fuel the local economy, benefiting hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and transportation providers.
“These routes strengthen employment and entrepreneurial opportunities in hospitality,” Mathias added. “More importantly, they reinforce cultural ties that stretch beyond tourism.”
A Longstanding Bond Between Nations
The Cayman Islands and Canada share more than tourism links—they share historical and cultural roots. Many Canadian expatriates live on the island, drawn by its safety, lifestyle, and welcoming community. Among them is Earl LaPierre Sr., a Trinidadian-born Canadian who has taught steel pan music in the Cayman Islands for nearly four decades.
“The cultural connection is strong,” said Mathias. “These flights make it even easier for Canadians to feel at home on our shores.”
Strategic Growth and Future Destinations Ahead
The Cayman routes are part of Porter’s broader strategy to expand into sun destinations. Earlier this year, the airline launched flights to Mexico, Costa Rica, and the Caribbean. With its growing fleet, Porter plans to introduce more destinations in the coming years.
“This is just the beginning,” Cicero said. “We’re listening to our passengers and launching flights where they want to travel. Grand Cayman is a perfect match.”
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