WestJet to Launch New Toronto–Cardiff and Toronto–Glasgow Direct Flights in Summer 2026

WestJet is preparing to introduce two new seasonal routes from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Cardiff (CWL) and Glasgow (GLA), with flights expected to begin in the summer of 2026. The announcement, anticipated during the week of November 17–23, 2025, marks another major step in WestJet’s transatlantic expansion strategy. These new routes will give Canadian travelers more convenient access to Wales and Scotland, two culturally rich destinations that have seen increasing interest from international visitors.

Growing Opportunities for Canadian Travelers

The introduction of direct flights to Cardiff and Glasgow will provide significant benefits for travelers across the Greater Toronto Area. Passengers planning trips to Wales or Scotland will no longer need to rely on connecting flights through London or other European hubs. Instead, they will be able to reach these destinations faster and more comfortably with WestJet’s new point-to-point routes.

Cardiff and Glasgow have long attracted visitors for their history, architecture, natural landscapes, and vibrant city life. These new direct services will make travel more efficient for leisure tourists as well as business travelers looking for smoother access to regional UK markets.

Key Route Details and Expected Operations

WestJet is expected to operate the Toronto–Cardiff and Toronto–Glasgow routes on Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, known for their fuel efficiency and enhanced cabin experience. Seasonal operations are expected to align with peak demand in the summer months of 2026.

One-way fares are projected to start at approximately CAD 336 for Cardiff and CAD 344 for Glasgow, making these routes competitive options for travelers exploring the United Kingdom. The introduction of these flights will expand WestJet’s already growing transatlantic network, offering passengers greater flexibility in planning their UK itineraries.

Anticipated Launch Timeline

While the exact start dates have not yet been confirmed, WestJet is expected to debut the new routes in summer 2026. The official announcement will be made in the week of November 17–23, 2025, as part of a broader international expansion update. These seasonal services will operate during the high-demand summer period, when interest in travel to the UK traditionally peaks.

Exploring Cardiff and Glasgow

Canadian travelers will enjoy direct access to two of the UK’s most distinctive and dynamic destinations.

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is a city celebrated for its blend of ancient history and modern culture. From Cardiff Castle to the National Museum and nearby natural attractions such as the Brecon Beacons, the city offers a wide range of experiences for visitors.

Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, is known worldwide for its artistic scene, historic buildings, live music culture, and proximity to some of the UK’s most stunning landscapes, including Loch Lomond and the Scottish Highlands. Both cities offer a compelling alternative to typical London-bound travel, giving Canadians more reasons to explore the broader UK region.

Why WestJet Is Expanding Its UK Network

WestJet’s decision to introduce routes to Cardiff and Glasgow reflects the growing demand among Canadian travelers for direct access to regional UK destinations. As travel preferences shift toward exploring beyond traditional capitals, airlines are seeing an opportunity to serve emerging hotspots that deliver both cultural depth and strong tourism appeal.

This expansion also strengthens WestJet’s competitive position in the transatlantic market. By offering direct services to cities underserved by other carriers, WestJet can attract travelers looking for convenience, quicker travel times, and unique travel opportunities. Increased direct connectivity will also support tourism growth in both Wales and Scotland, as these regions continue to rise in popularity among international visitors.

Impact on Canadian Travel

The addition of these new routes is likely to influence how Canadians plan travel to the UK. With direct flights now connecting Toronto to Cardiff and Glasgow, travelers will have more options for exploring multiple regions without the time-consuming inconvenience of connections. Business travelers will also benefit from improved access to two regional economic centers in the UK.

The new services are expected to encourage more Canadians to explore Wales and Scotland, regions celebrated for their natural beauty, cultural richness, and historic significance. This expansion will help meet the growing demand for more diverse UK travel experiences.

Conclusion

WestJet’s upcoming routes from Toronto Pearson to Cardiff and Glasgow mark a major advancement for Canadian travelers seeking new ways to explore the United Kingdom. Scheduled for launch in summer 2026, these direct services will reduce travel time, increase convenience, and open up two dynamic destinations previously less accessible from Canada. As the official announcement draws near, travelers can look forward to more seamless travel options and exciting opportunities to discover the unique cultures of Wales and Scotland.