Porter launches nonstop service from Toronto to Phoenix
On Oct. 3, Porter Airlines launched what will be daily service to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport from Toronto Pearson.
Nonstop flights from YYZ will depart at 10:00am, arriving at 12 p.m. after a flight time of 4.5 hours. The Embraer E195-E2 aircraft will then depart PHX at 1 p.m. and arrive in Toronto at 8:05 p.m. (all times are local).
“This inaugural flight from Toronto to Phoenix builds on Porter’s growing Western U.S. presence – now with service in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, San Diego and San Francisco,” said Kevin Jackson, president of Porter Airlines. “Our unique approach to economy air travel is something that Arizona will welcome, as we continue delivering on our promise of making flying better.”
And Arizona certainly welcomes it, with Chad Makovsky, aviation department director at the City of Phoenix, saying “Porter brings an exclusive type of product to our market, and we look forward to continuing to strengthen our ties with Canada.”
Arizona receives upwards of one million travellers from Canada annually, seeing high demand from snowbirds, golf fanatics, outdoor enthusiasts, museum-goers, foodies and more. The southwestern state is also popular for business travel, offering a lively mix of work and play among its many four- and five-star resorts.
Customer benefits
To celebrate the inaugural flight, the Toronto-based airline treated customers at the gate with complimentary snacks and coffee, photo opps, a raffle draw, and a $150 flight voucher per guest.
But customers on inaugural flights aren’t the only ones who receive benefits. Porter Pass holders now earn VIPorter AvidTraveller benefits immediately upon purchase, no longer needing to wait until travel is complete. The Porter Pass program allows frequent travellers to purchase flight credits and now, in an industry first in North America, earn loyalty status instantly.
Moves like this are “just another way we are respecting economy travellers and providing the elevated level of service they deserve,” said Edmond Eldebs, senior vice-president and chief commercial officer.
Stay tuned
Baxter Media was on board the Oct. 3 flight—stay tuned for updates from Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona!
