Porter Airlines’ launch of 12 routes from Montreal Metropolitan Airport (MET) isn’t just about adding capacity; it signals a shift in how the airline is approaching growth in one of Canada’s most competitive markets.
With service beginning June 15 and a 91% increase in summer capacity in Montreal, the expansion positions Porter across two airports in the region.
In an interview with TravelPulse Canada, Porter’s Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Edmond Eldebs outlined how MET fits into the airline’s broader strategy, from network growth to passenger experience.
Montreal Metropolitan Airport (MET) (Photo Credit: Porter)
At the centre of the expansion is Porter’s decision to operate from both Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) and MET (YHU).
“MET offers a more efficient, accessible option that complements Trudeau and allows us to better serve different types of travellers,” he said.
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He added that the airline sees an opportunity to increase capacity for travellers located closer to Montreal’s downtown and South Shore, while building on Porter’s long-standing presence in the market.
“Travel advisors play a critical role for us,” he said.
“We’re encouraging them to help clients understand the modern design, ease of use and overall convenience of MET, and how it can fit into their travel planning.”
MET terminal (Photo Credit: YHU)
Why MET—and why now
The opening of MET’s new terminal gives Porter room to grow in a less congested environment, while offering a more streamlined passenger experience.
“Montreal is Canada’s second-largest city, and MET helps address capacity constraints at Trudeau,” said Eldebs.
As demand for air travel continues to grow, Porter sees this as a model that could apply to other major cities as well.
Internally, the airport has already drawn comparisons to Porter’s Toronto base.
Eldebs noted that CEO Michael Deluce has referred to MET as “Billy Bishop on steroids,” pointing to similarities in convenience and passenger flow, at a larger scale.
MET baggage claim (Photo Credit: YHU)
Growth and strategy
The MET launch is part of a broader growth phase for Porter, supported by both fleet expansion and network development.
With up to 244 weekly departures across Montreal, split between MET and YUL, the airline is significantly increasing its presence in the market.
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“This expansion is primarily focused on strengthening our domestic network, with the opportunity to build on that over time with U.S. and sun destinations,” Eldebs said.
Fleet plays a central role in that strategy.
“The E195-E2 allows us to operate longer-haul, cross-country routes, while the Dash 8 continues to serve shorter regional markets,” both with the same elevated service experience, he added.
Porter fleet interior
Product, experience and positioning
As Porter grows, its onboard product remains a core part of its positioning.
“Our elevated economy experience is what Porter has become known for, and MET is a natural extension of that, bringing the same focus on comfort and simplicity to the airport experience,” said Eldebs.
That strategy extends beyond the inflight experience.
“Porter elevates economy travel for all of our passengers,” he said, pointing to the recent launch of the BMO VIPorter Mastercard as part of the airline’s broader approach to customer engagement.
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The credit card provides frequent-flyer benefits for cardholders, allowing customers to earn VIPorter points on everyday purchases and redeem them for flights, while also granting automatic VIPorter Avid Traveller benefits.
The airport’s focus on efficiency and ease of use aligns with Porter’s emphasis on offering a higher standard of travel experience, beyond the aircraft itself.
Porter’s partnership with Pascan Aviation is also expected to play an important role in expanding connectivity from MET.
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“Our partnership with Pascan unlocks additional regional connectivity across Quebec and Atlantic Canada, and is an important step in building a broader feeder network,” Eldebs said.
Pascan Aviation SAAB 340 (Photo Credit: Pascan)
What it means for travel advisors
For travel advisors, the expansion introduces both new routes and a new way of thinking about Montreal as a departure point.
“We encourage advisors to have their clients explore MET and experience the convenience and efficiency of the new facility for themselves,” Eldebs said.
He also emphasized the importance of advisors in helping travellers understand how to best take advantage of the new airport and its growing network.
MET Terminal (Photo Credit: YHU)
Looking ahead
Eldebs shared that success for the airline means continued growth in capacity and network, supported by its expanding E195-E2 fleet, which will allow Porter to keep building both from Montreal and across its network.
He added that while Porter is a launch airline at MET, the airport is expected to welcome additional carriers over time, something the airline supports as part of the airport’s long-term development.
Flights are now available for booking through Porter’s website.
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