A New Non-Stop Bridge to Canada
Air India has launched a much-anticipated seasonal non-stop service connecting Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) with Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ). Starting October 25, 2026, and running through March 26, 2027,
the airline will operate three flights per week, making it the only carrier to offer a direct link between these two major hubs. Operated by an upgraded Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, this route adds nearly 2,000 seats weekly, catering to the strong demand from students, families, and business travellers. For passengers from western and southern India, this new service eliminates the need for a layover in Delhi or a connection through Europe or the Middle East.
Decoding the Baggage Allowance
One of the most critical aspects for long-haul travellers is baggage. Flights between India and North America follow the 'piece concept' rather than the 'weight concept' common on other international routes. For this new Mumbai-Toronto service, economy class passengers are generously permitted to check in two bags, each weighing up to 23 kg. Premium Economy travellers receive the same two-bag allowance. Those flying in Business Class can check in two pieces up to 32 kg each, a significant perk for those needing extra luggage. However, it's crucial to adhere to these limits, as excess baggage fees on this route can be very expensive. A single piece of luggage should not weigh more than 32 kg for handling safety, a rule that applies across the entire Air India network.
Connecting from Toronto to Other Cities
Arriving in Toronto and catching an onward flight within Canada requires a clear process. Upon landing from Mumbai, all passengers must first clear Canadian immigration and customs. You must collect your checked baggage from the carousel, even if it is tagged to your final destination. After clearing customs, you will find a dedicated connections baggage drop-off belt where you can re-check your bags for your connecting domestic flight. From there, you proceed to the domestic departures area to go through security screening again before heading to your next gate. Toronto Pearson offers an Advance Declaration feature via the ArriveCAN app, which allows you to submit your customs and immigration information up to 72 hours before arrival, potentially speeding up the process.
Onward Journeys from Mumbai
For travellers starting their journey elsewhere in India, the new route offers seamless domestic connections through Mumbai. Air India enables passengers to connect from cities like Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad to the Toronto flight. If your entire journey is booked on a single ticket with Air India, your baggage will typically be checked through to your final destination (Toronto). You will simply transit at Mumbai's Terminal 2, which handles both international and many domestic flights, making for a straightforward connection. Passengers should follow the signs for international transfers and proceed through security. However, if you are flying with a different domestic airline on a separate ticket, you will need to collect your bags upon arrival in Mumbai, transfer to the check-in area for the Toronto flight, and re-check your luggage. Always allow at least three to four hours for such transfers.
What This Means for Travellers
This new non-stop route is a significant upgrade for India-Canada travel. It not only reduces travel time by avoiding layovers but also offers an enhanced onboard experience with upgraded aircraft cabins and Wi-Fi connectivity. The generous two-piece baggage allowance in economy is a major benefit, particularly for students moving for studies or families travelling with more luggage. By understanding the clear, albeit multi-step, process for baggage and connections at both Toronto Pearson and Mumbai airports, travellers can take full advantage of this convenient new link. The key is to know whether your bags are checked through to the final destination and to allow ample time for immigration, customs, and security procedures, especially when connecting from an international to a domestic flight.
