Air Canada has announced it will launch the only nonstop flights from North America to Sapporo, Japan, starting in December 2026, giving travellers direct access to one of Asia’s most celebrated winter destinations. The new seasonal service is timed to coincide with peak winter travel, including Japan’s renowned ski season and the world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival.
The route will connect Vancouver International Airport with New Chitose Airport in Japan’s northern Hokkaido prefecture. Flights will operate three times weekly from December 2026 through March 2027 using Air Canada’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner, offering Signature Class, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins.
With the addition of Sapporo, Air Canada further expands its international network and strengthens its position as the airline serving the most nonstop destinations in Japan from the North American mainland. The carrier already operates year-round services to Tokyo-Narita and Tokyo-Haneda, as well as seasonal summer flights to Osaka-Kansai.
Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Air Canada, said the new route reinforces Vancouver’s role as a major Pacific gateway while responding to strong premium leisure demand for Japan. He noted that Sapporo is a standout destination for winter sports enthusiasts, cultural travellers, and culinary explorers, and that the new service makes Japan’s northern regions more accessible than ever.
By leveraging Vancouver’s geographic proximity to Asia, the airline says the new flights will cut travel time to Sapporo by more than two hours each way compared with existing connections. For travellers in Hokkaido, the service will provide the only nonstop link to North America, with onward connections to more than 45 destinations across Canada, the United States, and Mexico via Air Canada’s Vancouver hub.
Canada’s Ambassador to Japan, Ian McKay, said the new air link would help strengthen people-to-people ties and create new economic opportunities by making it easier to experience winter tourism in both countries. Vancouver International Airport’s President and CEO, Tamara Vrooman, added that the route supports the airport’s strategy as a key trans-Pacific hub and deepens trade, economic, and cultural links between Canada and Japan.
Air Canada highlighted that the new service will appeal particularly to winter travellers, with Hokkaido known globally for its powder snow, hot springs, and distinctive regional cuisine. Ski and snowboard equipment will continue to be included within the airline’s standard checked baggage allowance on international flights. Signature Class passengers on the Japan routes will also be offered dishes created by Michelin-starred chef Masaki Hashimoto as part of the onboard dining experience.
Flights are now available for purchase via Air Canada’s website, travel agents, and contact centres, ahead of the route’s inaugural departure in December 2026.
