Québec City Airport Launches Direct Flights to Marseille and Nantes, Boosting European Travel and Economic Growth

Québec City, May 22, 2026 — Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) has marked a historic milestone with the inauguration of its first direct flights to Marseille (MRS) and Nantes (NTE), operated by Air Transat. The new routes—celebrated with a ceremonial inaugural flight—expand YQB’s international connectivity, offering travelers faster access to France while positioning Québec as a key destination for European tourism and trade.

Why These Flights Matter: A Strategic Boost for Québec

With the addition of Marseille and Nantes, YQB now connects Québec directly to 39 international destinations, eliminating the need for passengers to transit through major hubs like Montréal or Toronto. This expansion is not just a convenience for travelers but a strategic economic move, as local leaders emphasize the broader impact on tourism, business and cultural exchange.

“These new routes are a game-changer for Québec,” said Bruno Marchand, Mayor of Québec City, in a statement. “Direct flights mean we’re no longer an afterthought for international travelers. People choose Québec when they can fly straight here—it’s that simple. And the economic ripple effect? It’s enormous.”

Mayor Marchand highlighted that the flights attract visitors who might otherwise bypass Québec entirely, citing studies showing that direct air routes correlate with higher tourism spending and prolonged stays. The city’s official tourism board projects a notable uptick in European visitors, particularly from France, where Québec’s Francophone heritage and historic ties foster strong cultural connections.

Key Takeaways: What the New Routes Offer

• Faster Travel: Marseille is now just 6 hours from Québec, while Nantes adds a 6-hour direct flight, cutting transit times significantly compared to multi-stop routes.
• Expanded Capacity: The new routes add 8,358 seats per destination to YQB’s annual offerings, bringing the airport’s total capacity to over 3 million passengers for 2026.
• Economic Impact: Local officials estimate the flights will generate millions in tourism revenue, with visitors spending on hotels, dining, and cultural attractions.
• Cultural Bridge: France remains Québec’s top European partner, and these routes strengthen ties through tourism, trade, and student exchanges.

Celebrating the Inaugural Flight: A Symbol of Growth

The ceremonial launch of the Marseille route took place at YQB’s newly designated Air Transat lounge (gates 36–38), where dignitaries, travel agents, and passengers gathered to celebrate. Stéphane Poirier, President and CEO of YQB, emphasized the airport’s commitment to growth, stating:

“This is a historic moment for Québec City. We’ve never seen an offer as frequent, diverse, or substantial in our airport’s history. These flights aren’t just about adding seats—they’re about putting Québec on the map as a vibrant, accessible destination.”

Poirier also teased plans to introduce seasonal flights to Nantes during peak holiday periods, capitalizing on the city’s popularity among European travelers. “Nantes is a cultural and culinary gem, and we’re thrilled to bring it closer to Québec,” he added.

France’s Role: A Deeper Connection

The new routes underscore Québec’s strong ties to France, a relationship celebrated by Camille Pauly, Deputy Consul General of France in Québec. In a statement, she reflected on the cultural and historical bonds between the two regions:

“With these flights, you’re now just six hours from Nantes—home to the iconic machines of Île de Nantes, the vineyards of Muscadet, and the fairy-tale châteaux of the Loire. For Québécois, it’s an invitation to rediscover your roots, and for French travelers, it’s a chance to explore a destination rich in history and hospitality.”

Local politician Vincent Caron, Deputy of Portneuf and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Tourism, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the appeal of French destinations now within reach:

“The pastis of Marseille and the bouillabaisse are now just a flight away. Similarly, the châteaux of Brittany and the Muscadet vineyards are closer than ever. These routes aren’t just about travel—they’re about preserving and celebrating our shared heritage.”

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for YQB?

YQB’s expansion aligns with broader trends in North American aviation, where secondary airports are increasingly competing for international routes. Analysts note that Québec’s strategy—focusing on cultural affinity, tourism, and business travel—could serve as a model for other regional hubs.

For now, the focus remains on maximizing the impact of the Marseille and Nantes routes. Air Transat has committed to year-round service, with plans to adjust frequencies based on demand. Meanwhile, local businesses are gearing up for a surge in European visitors, particularly during the summer and holiday seasons.

FAQ: What You Need to Know About the New Flights

Q: How often will the Marseille and Nantes flights operate?

A: Air Transat has confirmed year-round service, with seasonal increases during peak travel periods (e.g., summer, holidays). Exact frequencies will be announced closer to the start of operations.

Q: Will these flights be profitable for YQB?

A: While exact financial projections aren’t public, YQB’s 2025 report highlighted a 4.7% increase in passenger traffic, suggesting strong demand. Direct routes to Europe are expected to drive both leisure and business travel, benefiting the local economy.

Q: Can Québec residents take advantage of these flights?

A: Yes! While the routes are marketed to international travelers, Québec residents can book flights to Marseille and Nantes for personal or business trips. Air Transat offers flexible booking options for both one-way and round-trip travel.

Q: Are there plans to add more European destinations?

A: YQB has not announced additional European routes, but officials have expressed interest in exploring connections to Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux in the future, depending on demand and partnerships.

Why This Matters Beyond Québec

The launch of these flights is more than a local success story—it’s a testament to how regional airports can punch above their weight by leveraging niche markets, cultural ties, and strategic partnerships. For travelers, it means fewer layovers and more direct access to Europe. For businesses, it opens doors to new trade opportunities. And for Québec, it reinforces its identity as a bilingual, Francophone hub with global ambitions.

As Stéphane Poirier put it: “This isn’t just about moving people from point A to point B. It’s about building bridges—between cultures, economies, and futures.”