OTTAWA, ON, Oct. 6, 2026 /CNW/ -- Expanding Canada's international air transport agreements creates new opportunities for Canadian businesses and travellers, opens up new trade and investment options and strengthens Canada's global connectivity.

Today, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, announced an expanded air transport agreement with Côte d'Ivoire, Canada's fourth-largest bilateral trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa and a growing air market.

The expanded agreement includes:

• Access to all points in each country
• Up to 14 passenger-combination flights per week for each country 
• Up to 10 all-cargo flights per week for each country
• Fifth freedom rights for all-cargo flights at points in Africa, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States (the ability to operate flights between two foreign countries if the flight either starts or ends in the airline's home country)

Quotes

"Our government is proud to announce this new agreement with Cote d'Ivoire, which will help grow our two economies while creating new opportunities for our people and our businesses. This agreement reflects our shared commitment to growth, partnership, and prosperity."

The Honourable Steven MacKinnon 
Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons

"Canada is diversifying its trade and deepening its economic relationships around the world, including across Africa. Our exports to Côte d'Ivoire have already grown by 32 per cent in the past year, a clear sign of the momentum building between our economies. This expanded air transport agreement will strengthen our investment ties while unlocking new opportunities for our businesses and workers."

The Honourable Maninder Sidhu
Minister of International Trade

Quick facts

• Bilateral merchandise trade between Canada and Côte d'Ivoire amounted to $1.2 billion in 2025.
• The Government of Canada is continually working on new and expanded air transport agreements to improve Canada's international connectivity and provide more options for travellers and businesses.
• Canada has air transport agreements or arrangements covering more than 125 countries.

Visit Transport Canada's website.

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SOURCE Transport Canada