Originally Posted by
MicSanToro
What new long haul AC routes may we see in the next 5 or so years? AC currently operates 6 767, 25 777, 35 787 (+2 on order), and 8 A330 (+4 on order), which is a fairly large and very capable long haul fleet.
Could we see any of the following routes?
YYC - HKG
YYC - PVG
YYC - PEK
YVR - KUL
YVR - CGK
YVR - SIN (either AC operated or SQ operated & AC codeshare)
YUL - MXP (If Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo win the 2026 Olympic Bid, this route could reasonably come to fruition)
If AC decided to purchase the A350-900 ULR they would be able to operate routes like YYZ-SYD and YVR-CPT (even if it’s only twice a week or something) which could be quite successful.
None of the routes mentioned have any nonstop flight, meaning the addition of one would be beneficial for AC and *A. The 3 YYC to China routes would be very high demand, and the routes from YVR into Southeast Asia could prove quite successful with lots of Canadian tourists opting for trips to the region.
Do you think any of these routes are possible? Any other long haul routes you think are more likely/needed beforehand?
From my understanding, AC wants SIN and BKK for the cargo, especially SIN. All those ships in the Straits, all that cargo...
Tourists are not big money-makers IMHO. That's partly what rouge is for.
Also, some very interesting discussion right now on the UA forum on the SIN routes as operated by UA and SQ. (because UA cancelled their LAX-SIN, added a second SFO-SIN and currently in the air, the new SQ22 A359-ULR, enroute from SIN-EWR). Fascinating discussion on who the customers are, what industries, corporate fares vs "rack rates" and who partners with whom. I've met some Canadian biz pax who fly SQ SFO-SIN and it is very interesting to hear why they do that route and their opinion of SQ compared to an AC offering from YVR.
AC is not buying A359s when they spent all that money building their fleet with the B788s and B789s. IMHO.
Anyway, you asked some interesting questions. Thanks.
EDIT to Add: There are people on this forum who know significantly more than me and will likely have different opinions. Makes for great fun at parties.
