Air Canada Unveils First-Ever Winter Service to Sapporo, Japan

In a major expansion of its trans-Pacific network, Air Canada officially announced today the launch of the only non-stop service linking North America to Sapporo, Japan. Scheduled to begin in December 2026, the three-times-weekly flights from Vancouver (YVR) are designed to tap into the booming demand for "powder-chasing" ski tourism and authentic Japanese winter experiences. This move reinforces Vancouver’s position as North America’s second-largest Pacific gateway and provides the fastest route to the Hokkaido prefecture.

The new service is expected to save travelers more than two hours of travel time each way compared to existing routes that require a domestic connection in Tokyo. Air Canada’s Executive Vice President, Mark Galardo, highlighted that the route is a direct response to the "strong premium leisure demand" for Hokkaido’s world-recognized ski conditions, hot springs, and culinary scene. For Aeroplan members, the addition opens up a highly sought-after global destination that has traditionally been difficult to access via direct long-haul flights.

Tourism officials in Japan are welcoming the announcement, noting that the Sapporo Snow Festival and the region’s legendary ramen culture are major draws for North American explorers. This expansion comes as global tourism arrivals are projected to exceed 1.5 billion in 2026, with the Asia-Pacific region leading the recovery. By securing this "first-mover" advantage, Air Canada is positioning itself as the carrier with the most non-stop Japanese destinations from the North American mainland, catering to the "experience-first" traveler.

For the 2026 winter season, this route is expected to be a flagship for Air Canada’s seasonal leisure strategy. Travel advisors are already anticipating high demand for the inaugural flights, particularly among the growing demographic of "adventure luxury" travelers who prioritize convenience and direct access to niche destinations. The announcement is a clear signal that the 2026 travel market is moving beyond traditional hubs and toward specialized, seasonal routes that cater to specific lifestyle interests like winter sports and gastronomy.