Canada’s Porter Airlines is to expand its network in the United States with the introduction of an up to twice daily link between its Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport base and Pittsburgh International Airport, its 22nd destination in its growing network. The new link will commence from September 21, 2015 and will be operated using a 78-seat Bombardier Dash 8-Q400 turboprop.
The independent regional carrier is the fourth operator to announce the start of service at Pittsburgh International Airport within the past 12 months and will see Toronto introduced as the 50th non-stop destination served from Pittsburgh and the sixth international destination. “We’re excited that the airline recognised Pittsburgh and our growing economy as an important market to serve,” said Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald.
The new Porter service will complement the existing operation of Air Canada on the Toronto – Pittsburgh city pair, which utilises Lester B Pearson International Airport, the main international gateway into the Canadian city. This route was also served regularly by US Airways over the last ten years but the carrier – now part of American Airlines – suspended the service in January 2008.
“Porter’s exceptional customer experience and competitive fares will be a big benefit for Pittsburgh flyers.” said Robert Deluce, president and CEO, Porter Airlines. “Our goal is to give more Canadians an opportunity to experience Pittsburgh, and provide those in Pittsburgh with a new way to connect with Canada.”
The airline’s use of Toronto City Airport will provide an alternative option for point-to-point business and leisure travellers alike and access to downtown areas, but also connection opportunities to Porter’s domestic network across Canada.
Pittsburgh was named one of “The 15 Most Liveable Cities in The US” by Forbes Magazine and The Economist and is known for its scenic views and as the city with the most bridges in the United States. An estimated 87,000 passengers travelled to and from Canada from the city in 2014, the highest level since 2009.
Our analysis of Sabre Airport Data Intelligence O&D demand statistics highlight the largest markets in 2014. The results clearly show the strong connection demand in Toronto to other destinations across Canada, a demand that will also help support the new Porter Airlines operation.
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