Canada, Vietnam expand air transport agreement

Canada and Vietnam have expanded their air transport agreement, allowing direct flights between the two countries for the first time as part of a new strategic partnership announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney.

The updated agreement permits up to 14 weekly passenger-combination flights and up to seven weekly all-cargo flights for each country. It also grants fifth-freedom rights for cargo carriers, allowing airlines to operate freight flights between two foreign countries as long as the service begins or ends in their home country.

The expansion comes as air travel demand and trade between the countries continue to grow. According to Transport Canada, two-way merchandise trade between Canada and Vietnam reached $20.6 billion in 2025. Vietnam is Canada’s largest trading partner among members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said the agreement is intended to improve travel and trade links between the countries.

“With every new or expanded air transport agreement we are paving the way for more convenient travel and exciting new opportunities for investment, trade, and international collaboration,” MacKinnon said.

The federal government said the agreement supports Canada’s trade diversification and Indo-Pacific strategies by strengthening passenger and cargo connectivity. Canada currently has air transport agreements or arrangements covering more than 125 countries.