Air China and Air Canada are preparing to launch non-stop flights between Beijing (PEK) and Montreal (YUL). The flights, operated by Air China beginning Sept. 29, will create the first trans-Pacific direct link between Asia and Montreal. The new route, serviced by a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, will initially operate three times per week.

Subject to requisite approvals, a second phase of the partnership involves forming a comprehensive revenue-sharing joint venture designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the new Beijing–Montreal service.

Air China and Air Canada signed a memorandum of understanding in November 2014 setting out the principles for an integrated revenue-sharing joint venture. The MOU provides for an enhanced partnership on routes between China and Canada to stimulate traffic growth between the two countries. Subject to necessary approvals, the joint venture is expected to come into effect in the second half of 2015.