Budapest–Toronto Flights Return: Air Canada Relaunches Direct Route for 2026
The transatlantic skies between Hungary and Canada will be buzzing once again. Beginning June 6, 2026, Air Canada restores its highly anticipated direct flight between Budapest and Toronto, offering fresh opportunities for summer travel, business, and cultural exchange. This long-haul link stands out as one of next year’s most exciting developments for travelers, marking a new era for those dreaming of North American adventures or reconnecting with loved ones across the ocean.
Direct Connection: Fast and Effortless North American Travel
Foreign tourists visiting Budapest can now look forward to seamless journeys to Canada with Air Canada’s non-stop service between Budapest’s Liszt Ferenc International Airport and Toronto Pearson International Airport. The direct route runs four times a week through the heart of the summer, from June until October 24, saving precious hours for passengers who previously relied on connecting flights. Each week, flights depart on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with Budapest departures scheduled at 13:15, reaching Toronto the next afternoon at 15:15 local time. The return leg departs Toronto at 21:55, landing in Budapest at 11:25 the following day. This schedule offers flexibility for both leisure and business travelers, making it easier than ever to plan a Canadian getaway or business trip from Hungary.
Modern Comforts: Three Classes Onboard
One of the standout features of the Air Canada Budapest–Toronto service is the choice of three distinct travel classes, all aboard the spacious Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. Travelers can select from Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy options, each with its own set of amenities and levels of comfort. Business Class boasts lie-flat seats, a dedicated cabin, and gourmet dining, providing ultimate relaxation for long-haul journeys. Premium Economy brings larger seats, extra legroom, and enhanced services, while Economy remains an affordable and popular choice, offering reliable comfort and excellent value. Regardless of the cabin, all passengers can expect attentive service, modern onboard entertainment, and a relaxing journey across the Atlantic.
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A Welcome Boost for Tourism and Culture
The restoration of this transatlantic link is about much more than convenience. Budapest–Toronto flights support the annual movement of nearly 90,000 travelers between Hungary and Canada, a figure expected to rise significantly with the return of direct service. Toronto stands as a Canadian economic and cultural powerhouse and is home to a lively Hungarian diaspora. The new route is set to strengthen not just tourism, but also business partnerships, educational exchanges, and family connections. Whether planning holiday cruises along the Danube, coming for festivals, or organizing business meetings, travelers from both continents gain a major new advantage.
Rebuilding Bridges After the Pandemic
The return of Air Canada’s Budapest–Toronto flight is part of a wider transatlantic recovery. For many years, direct North American flights were a rarity in Budapest, especially following Malév’s bankruptcy in 2012. Although LOT briefly connected Budapest to New York and Chicago in 2018, those services ceased during the global pandemic and have not yet returned. With Air Canada’s decision, along with news that American Airlines will relaunch Budapest–Philadelphia flights in May 2026, travelers once again have direct links to key destinations. These developments reflect a growing interest in Hungary from the North American market and a reawakening of passenger demand after challenging years for aviation.
Hungary Airlines Opens New Cargo Bridge to China
While passenger aviation continues its recovery, Hungary’s cargo sector is experiencing remarkable growth through the emergence of Hungary Airlines and its strategic expansion into Asian markets. On September 5, 2025, Hungary Airlines successfully launched its inaugural cargo flight between Budapest and Zhengzhou, China, marking a significant milestone in the country’s aviation development. The new route operates five flights per week using an Airbus A330-200F freighter, primarily transporting cross-border e-commerce goods from China to Europe.
The Zhengzhou route represents Hungary Airlines’ entry into mainland China’s lucrative cargo market, complementing its existing Hong Kong service that began in February 2025. Each flight carries approximately 60 tons of cargo, including clothing, toys, accessories, and various e-commerce products that are rapidly distributed across Central and Eastern Europe upon arrival in Budapest. The outbound journey from Budapest to Zhengzhou operates as a direct flight, while return services include a strategic stopover in Almaty, Kazakhstan, allowing the airline to serve multiple markets efficiently.
This new cargo link strengthens Budapest’s position as a key logistics hub along the modern Silk Road, facilitating trade between Asia and Europe while supporting Hungary’s growing role in international commerce. Hungary Airlines plans to expand its fleet with Boeing 777 freighters and is considering additional Chinese destinations, including Hangzhou, demonstrating the airline’s ambitious growth strategy in the Asian market.
Wizz Air Revives Budapest–Skopje Connection
Regional connectivity receives a boost as Wizz Air announces the revival of its Budapest–Skopje route, set to resume operations on March 30, 2026. The low-cost carrier will operate twice-weekly flights between the Hungarian capital and North Macedonia’s largest city, restoring a connection that was suspended in March 2025. The service will utilize Airbus A321neo aircraft, with Monday and Friday departures from Skopje at 11:55, arriving in Budapest at 13:20, followed by immediate return flights departing at 13:55 and landing back in Skopje at 15:20.
This route restoration reflects Wizz Air’s broader strategy to rebuild its Balkan network and strengthen Budapest’s role as a regional hub for Central and Southeastern Europe. The Budapest–Skopje connection provides valuable links for business travelers, students, and families maintaining ties between the two countries, while also supporting tourism flow in both directions. For foreign tourists visiting Budapest, this route offers an excellent opportunity to explore the cultural richness of North Macedonia and the stunning natural beauty of the region, including access to destinations like Ohrid and its UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Forward Momentum for Budapest Airport
These new connections are significant not only for travelers but also for Budapest Airport’s long-term strategy. The airport is working to position itself as a regional hub for intercontinental travel, attracting a growing roster of transatlantic and global flights. Air Canada’s renewed commitment represents a major step in that strategy, promising to lift Budapest’s competitiveness among other Central European airports like Prague or Vienna. Direct long-haul routes make the Hungarian capital an appealing entry point for journeys throughout Central and Eastern Europe as well as far-flung destinations beyond.
Tickets on Sale Now: Secure Early for Best Fares
For those eager to explore Canada or connect with family, tickets for the 2026 summer Budapest–Toronto service are already available. Reservations can be made on Air Canada’s website or through travel agents, with introductory fares often offered to early bookers. Given the popularity of direct flights and the limited summer season, travelers are advised to secure seats as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Budapest: A Gateway to North America and Beyond
The revival of the Budapest–Toronto route—and the expansion of direct transatlantic options—send a clear signal: Budapest is back on the world’s aviation map. As North American travelers rediscover the charms of the Hungarian capital, and locals enjoy new links for business, leisure, and family connections, Budapest Airport is ready to welcome the world. Whether crossing for summer holidays, business, or the adventure of a lifetime, this new era of direct flights promises more choice, convenience, and excitement for every traveler. The combination of passenger services to North America, cargo connections to Asia, and regional links throughout Europe positions Budapest as a truly global aviation hub, ready to serve the diverse needs of international travelers and businesses alike.
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