GUANAJUATO, Mexico – The state of Guanajuato has significantly expanded its international reach with the launch of a new direct flight route connecting the Aeropuerto Internacional del Bajío with Vancouver, Canada. Operated by Flair Airlines, the new connection marks a milestone for the region as its first regular international flight to a destination outside of the United States.

The inaugural flight saw a strong turnout, with 118 passengers departing from the Bajío region for Canada and 104 arriving from Vancouver. The service will operate on a weekly basis, with flights scheduled every Saturday at 6:00 PM, offering expanded travel options for both international tourists and local residents.

A Lucrative Market Expansion
The opening of the Vancouver route is a strategic move to tap into the lucrative Canadian market. Annually, more than 108,000 visitors from Canada travel to Guanajuato, generating an economic impact exceeding 260 million pesos. By establishing a direct link, the state aims to streamline travel and further stimulate tourism revenue.

The Aeropuerto Internacional del Bajío continues to demonstrate robust growth as a primary aviation hub in central Mexico. From January to August 2026, the airport handled more than 2 million passengers. It currently hosts seven airlines, further solidifying its role as a vital node for regional and international connectivity.

Growth Trends and Future Outlook
With the addition of Vancouver, the airport’s network now boasts 13 international routes and nine national routes. The 2026 aviation season has already shown favorable trends, with flight offerings surpassing those recorded during the same months in 2025—specifically in January, February, March, July, and August.

Looking ahead, the region’s connectivity is poised for even greater expansion. Plans are already underway for a new direct route between the Bajío region and Madrid, Spain, operated by Air Europa. That service is slated to begin in the first quarter of 2027, initially offering two weekly flights.