Additional TPA airline to add daily flight to Canadian city

Porter Airlines will begin daily nonstop service to Toronto on Nov. 1, Tampa International Airport officials state in a Thursday news release.

The carrier, which bills itself as low-cost, is launching jet service to the United States with its new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, including a new daily roundtrip flight between Tampa and Toronto Pearson International Airport.

Porter Airlines is now the 22nd scheduled passenger carrier currently flying to Tampa airport and the fourth to offer nonstop service to Canada, airport officials say.

"Canadians love the Tampa Bay region and everything it has to offer, and we know this will be a popular new option for both business and leisure travelers," says Joe Lopano, Tampa airport CEO.

Nov. 1 will be the first time Toronto-based Porter will fly to Tampa since the airline launched in 2006. Porter officials say the goal is "to offer superior hospitality and elevated onboard service for its travelers."

The new Embraer jets will offer 132 economy seats in a two-by-two configuration, meaning no middle seats, Porter officials say, making sure to note the seat configuration. The airline will also offer free wireless internet, free beer and wine, and premium snacks and food options.

"Canadians are used to flying to Florida, but not like this," says Kevin Jackson, Porter's EVP and chief commercial officer. "Porter’s onboard service for economy passengers is unmatched by any other carrier in North America. We believe that time onboard our planes is just as important a part of a trip as the destination."