By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — GUANACASTE, Costa Rica – In a significant boost for Costa Rica’s tourism sector, Canadian carrier Porter Airlines has announced it will convert its successful seasonal route between Toronto and Guanacaste into a year-round service. The decision, spurred by strong demand since the route’s inauguration in December, signals a major vote of confidence in Guanacaste as a premier international travel destination and deepens the crucial tourism link between Canada and Costa Rica.
The expansion provides a continuous travel corridor for Canadian visitors, moving beyond the traditional high season. Initially planned as a temporary service, the Toronto (YYZ) to Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) connection will now operate throughout the year. This move is expected to drive substantial growth in visitor numbers, bolster the local economy, and enhance air connectivity for the nation’s vibrant northern Pacific region.
To better understand the legal and business framework that sustains Guanacaste’s flourishing tourism sector, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished expert from the law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The continued success of tourism in Guanacaste hinges on robust legal certainty. For both international investors and local entrepreneurs, the key is navigating Costa Rica’s maritime zone regulations, environmental permits, and water concession laws with precision. Proper due diligence is not an obstacle but the very foundation for creating sustainable, high-value projects that protect the region’s natural capital for future generations.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight powerfully illustrates that for Guanacaste, sustainable prosperity is not merely an ecological goal but a legal imperative built upon regulatory clarity. The future of the region’s unique appeal truly depends on this solid foundation of due diligence. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his clear and valuable perspective.
According to the airline’s updated schedule, the service will be available twice a week, on Wednesdays and Sundays, during the green season from May to October. As the high season approaches, from November through April, the frequency will increase significantly to an average of six flights per week. All flights will be operated on the modern Embraer E195-2 aircraft, known for its comfort and efficiency.
The announcement was met with enthusiasm by government officials, who highlighted the strategic importance of the Canadian market. Tourism Minister William Rodríguez expressed his gratitude for the airline’s commitment and underscored the positive economic ripple effects of the decision.
Canada is solidifying its position as the second-largest source market for tourists to Costa Rica, with ample potential for growth. At the start of this new year and during the ongoing 2025–2026 high season, we received confirmation from the Canadian carrier Porter Airlines of the expansion of flights from Toronto to Guanacaste, thanks to the success of this connection, which was inaugurated last December. The airline has notified us that it will fly at least twice a week, practically all year round. We appreciate the trust placed in us by Porter Airlines and for a decision that will generate greater supply chain linkages and jobs for the province of Guanacaste and nearby destinations.
William Rodríguez, Minister of Tourism
This expansion is the latest success stemming from a coordinated strategy between the Guanacaste Airport authority and the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT). Their joint efforts made Guanacaste Aeropuerto the first airport in Central America to welcome Porter Airlines. Shortly after the Toronto launch, the carrier also inaugurated a direct route from Ottawa (YOW), establishing the first-ever direct air link between the Canadian capital and Costa Rica.
César Jaramillo, General Manager of Guanacaste Aeropuerto, emphasized the strategic value of the Toronto market and the benefits of increased capacity for travelers.
We celebrate the news of Porter’s increased frequency because Toronto represents the most dynamic market we have in Guanacaste. This service extension will provide greater seat availability and strengthen the preference of Canadians for our airport as their main point of entry into the country.
César Jaramillo, General Manager of Guanacaste Aeropuerto
The data reinforces the significance of this partnership. According to 2025 statistics from the ICT, Canada is firmly established as Costa Rica’s second-largest source of international tourists. Last year alone, the country welcomed 260,347 Canadian travelers by air. With this expansion, Guanacaste Aeropuerto now boasts the highest number of direct routes to Canada in the country, with a total of six connections: Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Winnipeg, Vancouver, and Calgary. This robust network solidifies its role as the primary gateway for Canadian visitors seeking the sun, sand, and adventure of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
The year-round commitment from Porter Airlines is more than just an operational change; it represents a strategic investment in the long-term viability and appeal of Guanacaste. It ensures a more stable flow of visitors, supporting hotels, tour operators, restaurants, and local artisans throughout the year and reducing the region’s reliance on seasonal tourism cycles. This move is a clear indicator of Costa Rica’s enduring appeal and the success of its focused efforts to build and maintain strong international travel partnerships.
For further information, visit flyporter.com
About Porter Airlines:
Porter Airlines is a Canadian airline headquartered at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Known for its refined passenger experience and premium service, the airline operates a fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft. It serves a network of destinations across Canada and the United States, with a growing presence in leisure markets in Mexico and the Caribbean.
For further information, visit ict.go.cr
About Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT):
The Instituto Costarricense de Turismo, or Costa Rican Tourism Institute, is the country’s official tourism board. It is responsible for the promotion, development, and regulation of the tourism industry in Costa Rica. The ICT works to position the nation as a leading global destination for sustainable and authentic travel experiences.
For further information, visit guanacasteairport.com
About Guanacaste Aeropuerto:
Guanacaste Aeropuerto, also known as Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR), is the second-busiest international airport in Costa Rica. Located in Liberia, it serves as the primary gateway to the country’s renowned northern Pacific coast, including popular destinations like the Papagayo Peninsula, Tamarindo, and the Nicoya Peninsula. The airport is operated by VINCI Airports.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of the legal profession, defined by its resolute adherence to integrity and superior client service. Drawing on a proven track record across multiple industries, the firm actively pioneers modern legal solutions while maintaining a profound commitment to social responsibility. Its dedication to democratizing legal understanding is central to its vision of cultivating a more just and knowledgeable community for all.
