Background on the Increased Canadian Tourism in Jalisco
In the first nine months of the year, Canadian tourism to Jalisco has seen an 8% increase compared to the same period last year, accounting for 15% of all foreign tourists visiting the state. This growth was highlighted by Michelle Fridman, Secretary of Tourism for Jalisco (SECTURJAL), during the inauguration of the new direct flight from Guadalajara to Toronto.
Air Canada’s Entry into Guadalajara
Fridman explained that while Air Canada, Canada’s flag carrier, had previously operated routes to Puerto Vallarta, it was not offering direct flights to Guadalajara. This year, however, the number of routes connecting Jalisco with Canada has grown from two to four, albeit operated by new airlines.
New Routes to Canada
Besides the new direct flight to Toronto, additional connections to Montreal, Calgary, and Vancouver are set to launch in the coming months, targeting the North American winter season, which is considered high for tourism from the US and Canada.
Air Canada’s Commitment to Strengthening Ties
Luis Noriega, Air Canada’s Commercial Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, emphasized that this connection represents a significant step in expanding their network in Mexico and reinforces Air Canada’s commitment to fostering tourism, economic, and cultural ties between the two countries, as well as Jalisco and Canada.
Through Air Canada’s Toronto hub, travelers from Guadalajara will have easier access to a wide range of destinations in Canada, the US, Europe, and the Middle East.
Business Growth Opportunities
Sandy Rita Tannouri, Canadian Vice-Consul and Trade Delegate in Guadalajara’s Consulate, pointed out that Guadalajara is not only Mexico’s economic and cultural hub but also a meeting point for new partnerships. She stated, “This flight opens new doors for business.”
Tannouri noted that Canadian businesses continue to invest and grow in Mexico, while more Mexican companies are looking towards Canada for new opportunities. This direct connection will further strengthen this trend.
Guadalajara International Airport’s Growth
Cryshtian Amador Lizardi, Director of Guadalajara International Airport, highlighted that the new direct flight to Toronto reflects the airport’s dynamism and growing international projection. With continuous infrastructure expansion and world-class services, the airport is well-prepared to welcome more Canadian visitors.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the significance of Air Canada’s new route from Guadalajara to Toronto? This direct flight symbolizes a substantial step in expanding Air Canada’s network in Mexico and reinforces their commitment to strengthening tourism, economic, and cultural ties between Mexico and Canada.
- How will this new route impact Canadian tourism in Jalisco? The increased connectivity through Air Canada’s Toronto hub will provide Canadian tourists with easier access to various destinations in Mexico, the US, Europe, and the Middle East, further boosting tourism in Jalisco.
- What opportunities does this new route present for businesses? The direct flight is expected to open new doors for business collaboration between Canadian and Mexican companies, as more Canadian firms continue to invest in Mexico, and Mexican businesses seek opportunities in Canada.
