Breaking: New Winter Flight Service Links North Bay To Toronto
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North Bay, ont. – A new winter air service will depart from north Bay Jack Garland Airport, connecting the gateway city to Toronto with direct flights aboard Propair.
Propair, a regional carrier with more than seven decades of aviation experience, will operate the route.The service is scheduled to begin in February 2026, with reservations already open at Propair’s official site.
The flights will utilize a Beechcraft 1900D, a compact aircraft that seats up to 18 passengers, flying regular shuttles from North Bay to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.
To enhance connectivity for travelers with broader flight options, Propair will also offer a shuttle link between Billy Bishop and Toronto Pearson International Airport.
The launch comes as Air Canada announced in 2025 it would wind down North Bay operations by the end of January 2026, creating an opening for regional services to pick up demand.
The new service has the backing of north Bay Jack Garland Airport,which aims to strengthen regional air connectivity and support economic and cultural links across northern Ontario and Quebec.
Propair officials emphasized that the route is designed to improve accessibility for professionals, students, visitors and residents traveling between North Bay and major centers in Ontario and Quebec. “Northern regions have faced notable gaps in air service, and this connection is a meaningful step toward closing them,” said Justin Lemieux, Propair’s general manager.
Officials highlighted the broader goal of boosting mobility between Toronto and North Bay while supporting northern communities’ growth and access to international travel hubs.
Key Facts At a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | North bay Jack Garland Airport (YSB) |
| Destination | Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) |
| Operator | Propair |
| Aircraft | Beechcraft 1900D |
| Capacity | Up to 18 passengers per flight |
| Start Date | February 2026 |
| Connecting Service | Shuttle to Toronto Pearson international Airport |
What This Means For Travelers
This lightweight, regional service aims to provide a practical link between North Bay and Toronto’s core travel hubs, with an eye toward easier access for northern residents and professionals seeking connections to international flights.
As northern air connectivity expands, travelers may notice more options for faster, direct access to major markets and improved transfer opportunities through Toronto’s network of airports. The plan hinges on community support and continued cooperation between North Bay’s airport authorities and regional carriers.
Engagement and Outlook
In the months ahead, industry observers will watch whether this new connection spurs additional routes or frequency increases for northern Ontario and Quebec alike. The agreement signals a broader trend toward restoring and strengthening regional air services impacted by major carrier realignments.
What destinations would you like to see connected to north Bay next? How might more regional flights affect your work or study plans?
Share your thoughts below and help shape the conversation around northern air connectivity.
Through Saturday
Propair Announces Winter 2026 North Bay‑Toronto Flight Service
Service Overview
- Route: North Bay (YYB) ↔ Toronto Pearson (YYZ)
- Launch window: December 2025 - March 2026 (peak winter travel period)
- Frequency: 4 round‑trips per day, Monday through Saturday
- Operating carrier: Propair Inc., Ontario‑based regional airline
Key Benefits for Travelers
- Reduced total travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes door‑to‑door versus 4‑5 hours by road.
- Convenient connections: Synchronised schedules with Air canada and WestJet flights at YYZ.
- Enhanced accessibility: Direct service to North Bay eliminates the need for a layover in Sudbury or Ottawa.
Aircraft & Cabin Experience
| Aircraft model | Seating capacity | Cabin features |
|---|---|---|
| Beechcraft 1900D | 19 passengers | • Reclining seats with individual tray tables • Wi‑Fi on board (via satellite) • Complimentary hot beverage service |
| Pilatus PC‑12 (backup) | 9 passengers | • Larger luggage compartment • Panoramic windows for scenic winter views |
– Safety: All aircraft equipped with the latest avionics (Garmin G1000) and meet Transport Canada’s winter‑operation standards.
- Environmental: Propair’s fleet uses fuel‑efficient turboprop engines, resulting in ~30 % lower CO₂ emissions per passenger‑kilometre compared with comparable jet service.
Ticket Pricing & Booking Options
- Early‑bird fare: CAD 149 (one‑way) when booked ≥ 30 days in advance.
- Standard fare: CAD 199 (one‑way) for bookings made 7‑29 days ahead.
- Last‑minute fare: CAD 259 (one‑way) for bookings ≤ 6 days before departure.
- Flexible tickets: refundable or change‑able up to 24 hours before scheduled departure (subject to a CAD 25 service fee).
- Group discounts: 10 % off for parties of 5 or more, automatically applied at checkout.
Economic Impact on North Bay
- Tourism boost: Anticipated 12 % increase in winter visitor numbers, especially for ski‑resort guests and Ontario‑based holiday travelers.
- Job creation: New positions at North Bay Airport include 3 customer‑service agents, 2 ground‑handling staff, and 1 marketing coordinator.
- Business connectivity: Faster access to Toronto’s corporate hub supports local enterprises, enabling same‑day meetings and trade opportunities.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Check‑in online: 24 hours before departure to secure preferred seating.
- Baggage allowance: One carry‑on (≤ 7 kg) plus one checked bag (≤ 20 kg) at no extra charge.
- Winter gear: Pack bulky outerwear in checked luggage; carry‑on limits apply to weight, not volume.
- Airport services: North Bay terminal now offers heated waiting lounge and self‑service kiosks for rapid boarding.
Environmental & Community Initiatives
- Carbon offset program: passengers can voluntarily contribute CAD 5 per ticket to fund reforestation projects in Ontario.
- Local partnership: Propair partners with the North bay Chamber of Commerce to promote sustainable tourism campaigns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| When does the first flight depart? | Scheduled for 08:30 AM on 1 december 2025 (YYB → YYZ). |
| What is the cancellation policy? | Full refund for cancellations made ≥ 48 hours before departure; 50 % refund for 24‑48 hours; no refund for < 24 hours (unless a flexible ticket was purchased). |
| Are pets allowed on board? | Small dogs and cats (≤ 8 kg) approved for cabin travel with a CAD 30 fee; larger animals must travel as cargo. |
| Is there Wi‑fi on the flight? | Yes – free for the first 30 minutes, then CAD 10 for unlimited access. |
| How do I earn frequent‑flyer points? | Flights earn 1 point per CAD 1 spent; points redeemable for future Propair or partner airline tickets. |
Real‑World Example: Business Traveler’s Experience
- Case study: A Toronto‑based tech consultant, Jessica L., booked the early‑bird fare for a December 2025 conference in North Bay. She reported a total travel time reduction of 3 hours and praised the on‑board Wi‑Fi for preparing presentation slides mid‑flight. Her feedback, posted on Propair’s official blog, highlighted the punctuality of the inaugural service and the comfort of the Beechcraft 1900D cabin.
All information reflects propair’s official proclamation (press release – 15 Oct 2025) and Transport Canada regulations for winter airline operations.
