Get ready to pack your bags Montreal, because a brand-new budget airline is about to land in the city.
On Wednesday, January 29, a French airline promising affordable long-haul flights without skimping on comfort announced that it would be touching down in Quebec later this year.
Low-cost carrier French bee is officially launching a new Montreal-to-Paris route on April 30, 2025. Flights will take off directly from Montreal-Trudeau International Airport and land at Paris-Orly, one of the most conveniently located airports for accessing the French capital.
The new route is part of the company’s wider plans to extend its presence across North America. According to a recent press release, the airline is “expanding its offer in Canada to meet the growing demand from North American customers for long-haul travel at competitive fares.”
With round-trip tickets between Montreal airport and Paris starting at just $449, Montrealers can head to Europe to munch on croissants and explore Avenue des Champs-Élysées for under $500.
And, if you’re dreaming of exploring more of France, French bee has you covered with a number of train and air combos available via their website. You can snag a ticket that lets you hop on the TGV straight from Paris to dreamy destinations like Bordeaux or Angers—perfect for those wine-tasting or countryside adventures.
Despite the affordable airfare, French bee’s budget-friendly approach doesn’t necessarily mean cutting corners on comfort.
The airline says it’ll be flying state-of-the-art Airbus A350s, which are not only fuel-efficient but also designed with passenger comfort in mind. The French carrier is promising Canadian travellers wider seats, quieter cabins, and a smoother ride.
Like many low-cost airlines, the cheapest fares come without any bells and whistles, although upgrades are available.
Want to stretch out more? You can upgrade to a “maxi leg seat” starting at $70 extra. Need to check that massive suitcase full of outfits you couldn’t decide between? Add a checked bag for $90. You can also pre-order meals—some of which are crafted by a Michelin-starred chef—or treat yourself to a travel kit for extra in-flight coziness.
For those who like to skip lines and speed through the airport, French bee also offers an Express Pack, which lets you skip queues and board like a VIP.
This news comes as other low-cost airlines move to pull out of Canada.
Icelandic carrier Play Airlines is set to end its Canadian operations on April 22, 2025, leaving travellers wondering what it means for their plans. Last year, Lynx Airlines filed for creditor protection, and in 2023, WestJet folded Swoop Airlines into its main operations.
McGill University aviation expert John Gradek told CTV News in January that Canada hasn’t exactly been welcoming to ultra low-cost carriers. He said these airlines are struggling with rising costs, inflation, and tough competition from bigger players.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.
