Border Traffic Decline Raises Concerns

British Columbians are making fewer trips to the United States this summer, with new data showing a sharp year-over-year drop at key border crossings. The Border Policy Research Institute (BPRI) in Bellingham, Washington, reports a 29% decrease in Canadian vehicle entries at the Peace Arch and Pacific Highway checkpoints in July 2025.

Travel Trends Mirror Broader Downturn

According to BPRI director Laurie Trautman, cross-border traffic had already fallen by almost 30% in February before plunging by up to 50% in April. Last month’s figures equate to roughly 5,000 fewer Canadian vehicles than in July 2024, with an estimated two to three passengers per car. Such declines have been rare over the past three decades, seen previously only during major disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic or the post-9/11 border closures.

Trade Dispute at the Core

Analysts point to an ongoing trade dispute between Canada and the United States as a key factor discouraging leisure travel. The International Trade Administration reports that foreign travel to the U.S. is down nationwide, while the World Travel and Tourism Council forecasts a $12.5-billion loss in international visitor spending this year.

Local Businesses Feel the Absence

Border towns in Washington, especially those that traditionally cater to Canadian visitors, are feeling the shift. In Birch Bay, however, the impact has been less severe. The coastal community is experiencing steady foot traffic from domestic tourists, according to the local Chamber of Commerce. Event coordinator Sacha Sanguinetti describes it as a rise in “U.S. regional business,” with visitors arriving from Washington and neighbouring states.

A Sweet Shop’s View from the Frontline

The C Shop, a family-run confectionery operating in Birch Bay since 1971, has long relied on Canadian customers. Owner Keith Alesse says the number of B.C. licence plates in his parking lot has dropped noticeably this year. “We really miss having our Canadians around,” he says. Despite the decline, the shop’s revenue has only slipped about 2% compared with last year, thanks to strong domestic tourism.

Hope for a Return to Normal

While some Washington businesses are managing to offset the loss of Canadian visitors, many remain eager for cross-border travel to recover. Alesse and other business owners hope for a swift resolution to trade tensions, believing that familiar summer patterns will resume once relations improve. Until then, B.C. travellers may remain a rare sight on the other side of the line.

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Porter Expands Southbound Service from Hamilton Airport

Porter Airlines is boosting its presence in Southern Ontario with two new nonstop seasonal routes from John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (YHM) to Orlando (MCO) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL), beginning in December 2025.

This marks a significant step in Porter’s expansion strategy, especially for Hamilton, which has seen a surge in demand for U.S. leisure travel.

Launch Dates and Flight Schedule

Flights to Orlando will take off starting December 12, followed by Fort Lauderdale on December 13. Both destinations will be served with three weekly roundtrip flights, operating through April 2026, aligning with peak Canadian winter travel trends.

Porter will be the exclusive carrier offering nonstop service between Hamilton and both Florida cities.

Strategic Growth for Hamilton Airport

According to Andrew Pierce, Vice President of Network Planning and Reporting at Porter Airlines, the launch of these routes marks the airline’s ninth nonstop route from Hamilton in 2025 alone.

“We’re growing where demand is rising,” said Pierce. “This expansion is about connecting Hamiltonians to the sunny destinations they love—while delivering an elevated economy travel experience.”

The move also supports Hamilton International Airport’s ongoing transformation into a viable alternative to Toronto Pearson for regional travelers.

Comfort, Choice, and Convenience

All flights on these new routes will be operated with Porter’s fuel-efficient Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, offering a cabin configuration that emphasizes comfort.

Passengers can expect complimentary snacks, beverages, and Wi-Fi, regardless of fare class. Ticket options include both basic à la carte fares and all-inclusive packages, catering to varied traveler preferences.

A Competitive Move in a Growing Market

The Hamilton–Florida routes further strengthen Porter’s footprint in the southern U.S. leisure market, and position it as a competitive alternative to larger Canadian carriers.

As the only airline currently serving these routes directly, Porter taps into growing demand for direct access to Florida’s family-friendly and beachside attractions without the need for Toronto layovers.

What This Means for Canadian Travellers

The new Florida flights reflect a larger trend: Canadians are seeking flexible, convenient, and cost-effective travel options from regional hubs.

With Porter’s customer-first service model and expanding route map, Hamilton is quickly becoming a viable gateway to the U.S. South—just in time for the winter getaway season.

For full route details, visit flyporter.com.

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