Discover Airlines is expanding its service with new flights between Calgary (YYC) and Munich (MUC). This development is expected to bolster Air Canada’s competitive position against WestJet, according to Canadian travel expert Rob Kokonis. The introduction of three weekly flights will cater to the growing demand for tourism hotspots such as Banff and Lake Louise.
Currently, Discover Airlines already operates routes connecting YYC to Frankfurt (FRA). Kokonis pointed out that this new service is strategically designed to address Air Canada’s challenges in the Calgary market, especially after it suspended its own Frankfurt service in 2023 due to an aircraft and pilot shortage.
Enhancing Connectivity for Canadian Travelers
The relationship between Discover Airlines and the Lufthansa Group allows Air Canada to offer codeshare services on these newly launched flights. This partnership not only expands Air Canada’s market reach but also provides better options for Canadians traveling beyond Munich. Through this collaboration, travelers can access interline connections in Germany for further destinations.
“Discover’s service is a significant boost for both Air Canada and Lufthansa. With WestJet expanding its European routes from Calgary, it’s crucial for both airlines to provide competitive options,” stated Kokonis, who is also the president of AirTrav Inc. in Toronto. “Discover’s new flights from Calgary add the necessary European seat capacity that both airlines have been seeking.”
Changes in the Canadian and European Aviation Landscape
Another notable shift in the airline industry involves Condor Airlines, which announced the suspension of its seasonal service to Frankfurt from both Edmonton and Halifax earlier this year. While Halifax still retains Discover service, Edmonton is now lacking as Discover does not operate flights from that airport.
The decision by Condor to suspend these routes stemmed from a legal ruling made in late 2024 by the German Federal Court of Justice. This ruling invalidated an interline agreement with Lufthansa, which had previously facilitated codeshare seat capacity for Condor’s connections to Frankfurt.
“Condor is actively seeking alternatives to replace this critical connecting capacity in Germany,” Kokonis noted. “I believe they will look to resume service to Edmonton at the earliest opportunity.” Edmonton traditionally serves as a crucial portal for visitors aiming to explore Jasper National Park and other attractions.
Though Condor’s service has been suspended from certain Canadian destinations, it continues to operate flights to Germany from Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary. Discover Airlines’ recent service from Calgary is part of a broader expansion that includes newly inaugurated flights to Orlando and Windhoek, enhancing its intercontinental route offerings.
Discover Airlines’ Fleet and Growth
Discover Airlines, which operates a fleet of eight Airbus A330 aircraft, has quickly made a name for itself by reaching 32 leisure destinations and offering 80 weekly departures. This expansion highlights the airline’s commitment to meeting growing passenger demands and competing effectively within the evolving aviation market.
As the Canadian aviation landscape continues to change, the added routes and partnerships demonstrate a concerted effort by airlines to cater to both domestic and international travelers, ensuring robust options for everyone looking to explore new destinations.
