A new chapter in Ghana – Canada relations will open next year with the launch of Air Transat’s first-ever direct flights between Toronto and Accra, a development expected to deepen travel, trade and cultural exchanges between the two countries.
The seasonal non-stop service—scheduled from June 17 to October 22, 2026—was announced to excitement in both capitals, marking the first direct commercial air link in the 67-year relationship between Ghana and Canada.
Speaking at a media reception in Accra, the High Commissioner of Canada to Ghana, Togo and Sierra Leone, Madam Myriam Montrat, described the development as “evidence of stronger ties” and a timely milestone ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which Canada is co-hosting with the United States and Mexico.
“This direct air link will bring our two countries even closer together,” she said. “It will make tourism, business travel, and educational and cultural exchanges far more convenient—and all at a moment when the world’s attention will be on North America for the World Cup.”
Air transport agreement unlocks bigger opportunities
The flights form part of broader aviation cooperation under the Air Transport Agreement (ATA) signed between Ghana and Canada in March 2025.
The agreement permits up to 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly cargo flights by multiple carriers, creating room for increased commercial activity, tourism flows and cross-border logistics.
Madam Montrat said the new route is “just the beginning,” expressing confidence that more carriers will take advantage of the open skies framework.
World Cup 2026 seen as cultural bridge
With World Cup matches scheduled in Toronto and Vancouver, Canada expects an influx of Ghanaian fans travelling to support the Black Stars.
The High Commissioner said Canada is eager to welcome them, emphasising the role of sports in strengthening people-to-people ties.
“We see sport as another bridge between our societies and a driver of cultural tourism,” she noted.
“Canada is proud of its diversity and looks forward to sharing its culture, cities and passion for football with Ghanaians.”
Trade and investment on the rise
The new air link comes as bilateral economic relations continue to grow.
Merchandise trade between Ghana and Canada hit CA$483 million in 2024, driven by exchanges in mining, agriculture, ICT, clean technology and sustainable development sectors.
Canadian investment in Ghana’s mining industry remains strong, with assets now valued at over CA$1.1 billion, making Canada one of Ghana’s most significant foreign mining partners.
A partnership rooted in history
Madam Montrat also reflected on the longstanding diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Canada was one of the earliest countries to recognise Ghana’s independence in 1957 and later established its first African bilateral development programme in the country.
Since then, she said, Canada has provided over CA$2.5 billion in development assistance aligned with Ghana’s priorities, while both nations have collaborated in global multilateral forums and deployed peacekeepers to UN missions.
With the first direct flights set to take off in 2026, Ghana and Canada are preparing for a surge in movement that promises not just improved convenience but renewed momentum for trade, investment and cultural exchange across the Atlantic.
