Air Canada's direct Montreal-Delhi flight costs CAD $4,500-$6,200 for business class - about $600-$900 more than connecting via Dubai or Doha. For the 14-hour time savings and lie-flat sleep, most travelers find it worth the premium for eastbound overnight flights.
The YUL-DEL Direct Route
Air Canada operates 3-4 weekly direct flights from Montreal (YUL) to Delhi (DEL) using the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. The flight time is approximately 13.5-14 hours eastbound and 15-16 hours westbound due to prevailing winds.
Current Pricing (2026)
| Cabin | Low Season | Peak Season | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | CAD $1,300 | CAD $2,100 | CAD $1,600 |
| Premium Economy | CAD $2,200 | CAD $3,400 | CAD $2,700 |
| Business Class | CAD $4,500 | CAD $6,200 | CAD $5,200 |
Direct vs Connecting: The Real Comparison
| Factor | Direct (Air Canada) | Via Dubai/Doha |
|---|---|---|
| Total Travel Time | 14 hours | 18-22 hours |
| Business Class Price | CAD $5,200 avg | CAD $4,400 avg |
| Premium Saved | $0 | $800 avg |
| Time Saved | 4-8 hours | N/A |
| Value per Hour Saved | $100-$200/hour | N/A |
When Direct is Worth It
- Overnight eastbound flights - maximize sleep time
- Business travelers with limited time
- Travelers who dislike connections
- Those with tight return schedules
- Families with young children
When to Choose Connecting
- Budget is the priority over time
- You want to experience Gulf carrier lounges
- Westbound daytime flights (sleep less critical)
- You enjoy breaking up the journey
- Emirates/Qatar award space is available