Porter is in it for the long-haul, as evident by the airline’s ongoing expansion plans. In this week’s Take 5, we check in with Michael Curmi, Managing Director, Sales & Distribution at Porter Airlines, who shares with us the airline’s growth strategy, details about the newly expanded Porter Pass program, and the latest news about Porter Escapes. 

1..We’ve seen some major expansion from Porter in recent weeks, with new routes and increased frequencies. What would you say is driving this growth?

“We’re continuing to take delivery of more Embraer E195-E2 jets, launch new routes and destinations, and disrupt the economy air travel market with a level of service that’s unmatched by any other carrier in North America. There are 34 E195s in our fleet as of today. With as many as 100 deliveries planned for this aircraft, you can expect more announcements for the foreseeable future. 

“Our immediate focus is on finalizing the winter schedule, which you’ll start seeing very soon. You can expect to see a strong emphasis on warm weather locations like the Western U.S. and Florida. Porter passengers tell us that they are loving the experience, which we’re seeing in our industry-leading customer satisfaction scores.”

2. Porter just announced the expanded Porter Pass program. What’s new about the program specifically, and who would benefit the most from it?

“Porter Passes are pre-paid flight passes for designated routes and regions. We’ve updated the program to reflect the current scale of our network, so there are a number of new options. This includes the PorterReserve Porter Pass, which provides a premium, all-inclusive choice. Passes are designed for frequent travellers, small businesses and larger corporate traveller programs who can benefit from a special fixed fare with great value and are valid for a 12-month period.

“There are six new passes that focus on routes connecting the Eastern Triangle markets of Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal with places like Western Canada, Florida and the Western U.S. There are also ‘fly anywhere’ passes that can be used on any Canadian route or anywhere in our entire network.”

3. Of course, we were all sad to hear about Porter Escapes no longer being sold. What can you tell us about any future plans to either bring them back, or launch a different iteration of vacation packages? 

“Porter Escapes has been an important part of our business for many years. The reason why we decided to suspend sales is a recognition that our business is evolving. Rather than attempt to sell packages for every new market that we’re entering, we intend to refocus on sun destinations that Canadians traditionally visit in locations such as Mexico and the Caribbean.  These will become available at a later date in conjunction with Porter flights, although no specific timeline is confirmed.  In the meantime, we’re redirecting our energy into laying the groundwork for this new version of vacation packages that include Porter flights.”

4. What are some new trends you’re seeing in air travel this year? And how is Porter meeting these trends?

“There is a strong demand for travel, but people also want value for money. That means a fair price that includes benefits that only Porter provides, like complimentary in-flight service, including beer, wine and premium snacks for all passengers. We also have free Wi-Fi on our E195 fleet that has comparable speed to what you’re used to on the ground. You can stream shows and use multiple devices to stay connected throughout your flight. These are some of the details that passengers appreciate when flying with Porter.

“Through the rest of 2024, we’ll continue extending our reach throughout Canada and the U.S., increasing frequencies on existing routes and building out other key markets such as Ottawa, Montreal and Halifax to meet this demand. Passengers can also expect to travel seamlessly across our network and connect onward to the U.S. west coast, Europe and sun destinations with our partner airlines such as Air Transat and Alaska.”

5. What do you want travel agents to know heading into the all-important summer season? What are you most excited about?

“Porter is operating the largest summer schedule in its history from Toronto, serving both Billy Bishop and Toronto-Pearson airports. We’ll also be Ottawa’s largest carrier with nonstop flights to 16 destinations, including Western Canada and Florida.

“We now have a fleet of 63 aircraft now flying to 30 destinations across North America! From Florida to California, Victoria to St. John’s, Porter is making its mark across the continent.

“We want to thank all travel agents for demonstrating strong support while promoting our growing network and emphasizing our generous service and warm hospitality. We look forward to working with all of you on another successful summer travel season.”