Get ready for a celebration of Canadian athletic spirit! Air Canada has proudly renewed its longstanding partnership with the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) and Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) as the Official Airline of Team Canada. This exciting new agreement extends to the 2030 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, solidifying Air Canada’s unwavering commitment to supporting Canadian athletes on their journey to international glory.
Taking Flight with Team Canada
The announcement, marked by an event in Toronto, boasts not only an extended partnership but also a visually stunning symbol of this unwavering commitment. Air Canada unveiled a special Boeing 777 adorned with a unique Team Canada livery. This aircraft will have the distinct honor of transporting Canadian Olympians, Paralympians, coaches, and support staff to and from the upcoming Games.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada, stated, “We’re honored to extend our partnership… as Team Canada’s Official Airline through 2030, including for Paris 2024.” He emphasized their dedication to showcasing Canada’s excellence on the global stage while cheering on the nation’s top athletes in their pursuit of Olympic and Paralympic success.
This renewed partnership signifies Air Canada’s commitment to #FlyTheFlag for the next four Olympic and Paralympic Games. Over 1,000 Team Canada athletes and delegation members will be transported to Paris 2024 aboard Air Canada flights. The airline’s “Going for Gold” employee program will ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience, allowing athletes to focus on their peak performance.
A Legacy of Support: Mutual Appreciation
The excitement is shared by both parties. David Shoemaker, CEO and Secretary General of the COC, expressed his delight at extending this longstanding relationship: “For more than 30 years, Air Canada’s passion for Team Canada has been remarkable.” He lauded their exceptional travel arrangements, which consistently empower athletes to compete at their best on the world stage.
Karen O’Neill, CEO of the CPC, echoed these sentiments. She acknowledged Air Canada’s dedication to collaboration with the Paralympic community, ensuring a seamless and comfortable travel experience for Paralympic athletes. Looking forward to the Paris 2024 Games, she expressed confidence in Air Canada’s ability to provide a safe and efficient journey. This strong partnership will undoubtedly extend beyond Paris, strengthening over the next six years as they work together to support athletes in achieving their Paralympic goals.
Going Beyond Transportation: A Celebration of Canadian Values
Air Canada’s commitment extends far beyond simply transporting athletes. They recognize and celebrate the embodiment of Canadian values – diversity, inclusivity, openness, and kindness – that Team Canada athletes represent.
Special services and dedicated transportation are offered to all Team Canada athletes traveling to the Games. Additionally, Air Canada goes above and beyond with initiatives such as:
- Extending complimentary 35K Aeroplan Elite status through their Podium Program.
- Providing personalized Care & Share packages to enhance in-flight comfort, including amenity kits and memorabilia for athletes to share at the Games.
- Establishing a significant on-site presence at both Canada Olympic House and Canada Paralympic House in Paris. This allows them to showcase the best of Canada and aviation hospitality, while actively cheering on Team Canada with attendees.
- Hosting celebratory airport events for athletes departing and returning from the Games.
Team Air Canada Athlete Ambassadors: Inspiring Excellence
Further solidifying their support, Air Canada has announced a captivating initiative – 10 Team Air Canada athlete ambassadors. These exceptional athletes not only excel in their respective sports but also embody the core values of Canada. They serve as an inspiration for Air Canada and the nation as a whole.
The inaugural Team Air Canada athlete ambassadors include:
- Luguentz Dort – Basketball (Montreal, Quebec)
- Philip Kim – Breaking (Vancouver, B.C.)
- Pierce LePage – Athletics (Whitby, Ontario)
- Adriana Leon – Soccer (King City, Ontario)
- Josh Liendo – Swimming (Toronto, Ontario)
- Zak Madell – Wheelchair Rugby (Edmonton, Alberta)
- Summer McIntosh – Swimming (Toronto, Ontario)
- Cindy Ouellet – Wheelchair Basketball (Quebec City, Quebec)
- Marissa Papaconstantinou – Para Athletics (Toronto, Ontario)
- Aurélie Rivard – Para Swimming (St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec)
This athlete ambassador program is designed to continue, with new athletes being selected for each of the 2026, 2028, and 2030 Games.
