Thailand and Canada have sealed a new bilateral air service agreement, increasing the number of flights airlines are allowed to operate between the two countries.

Under the new deal, any number of Canadian or Thai airlines will be able to fly to any city in either country, with an overall limit of 21 flights per week for each country.

There are no direct flights currently operating between Thailand and Canada, but the national carriers of both countries – Thai Airways and Air Canada – have both stated their intention to launch more trans-Pacific routes.

The new deal will also offer fifth freedom rights to airlines, meaning they will be able to fly onwards from Thailand or Canada to other countries.

“The government of Canada is committed to helping the Canadian air industry increase its access to international markets. An expanded agreement with a growing international air transport market like Thailand not only benefits our air sector, but also Canadian businesses, shippers and travellers who will now have more options,” said Marc Garneau, Canada’s Minister of Transport.