Since 1933, Air France has been at the forefront of aviation, showcasing the best of France around the world. With a dynamic presence in passenger transport, cargo and aeronautical maintenance, Air France is a major player in the airline industry. Air France is also dedicated to sustainable development and has set bold goals under its ACT program. The company aims to reduce CO2 emissions per passenger-kilometer by 30% by 2030 (compared to 2019 levels) by investing in more fuel-efficient aircraft, using more sustainable aviation fuel and adopting eco-piloting practices.

And if that’s not impressive enough, Air France isn’t just about flying—it’s also about food and film! With Canada in particular, Air France serves five major destinations: Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Vancouver and Quebec City. This winter, the airline is adding three extra weekly flights from Toronto for a total of 10, and two more flights from Montreal to the sunny shores of Pointe-à-Pitre in La Guadeloupe. But let’s get to what brought Air France to Toronto’s skies and screens during the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
For the ninth consecutive year, Air France has proudly partnered with TIFF, showing off its chic elegance at the TIFF Founders Lounge located at the Lightbox headquarters. Industry pros and film lovers alike had the chance to experience a little slice of French sophistication amidst the cinematic buzz of Toronto’s most talked-about event. And here’s the scoop: Air France isn’t just about being a TIFF supporter, it’s the official sponsor of the TIFF Discovery Program—an exciting showcase of fresh voices in contemporary international cinema.
“We’re thrilled to support emerging filmmakers and be present at this prestigious event. Our collaboration with TIFF continues to be a testament to Air France’s special bond with cinema,” said Jean-Eudes de La Bretèche, Air France KLM General Manager Canada, as we sipped bubbly.
But wait, there’s more! At the heart of this year’s festivities, Air France decided to treat us to an exclusive preview of their upcoming culinary creations for Business Class. That’s right, this wasn’t just any launch party—it was a mouthwatering affair! We were invited to experience the exquisite new Business Class menu set to be introduced on flights departing from Canada to Paris starting November 1, and let me tell you, it was a high-altitude feast on solid ground.

To orchestrate this gastronomic journey, Air France teamed up with renowned Chef Olivier Perret. Chef Perret, who hails from Burgundy but has made Montreal his culinary playground, is the mastermind behind these new dishes. His culinary finesse has already made him a household name at the Sofitel Montréal Golden Square Mile’s, Renoir restaurant. He’s also a proud member of the prestigious Maîtres Cuisiniers de France, a Maple Ambassador, and part of the Académie Culinaire de France. So, you know your taste buds are in very good hands.
“Having lived in Montreal for many years, I want to take Air France customers on a culinary journey with my cuisine, combining French gastronomy with fresh ingredients from Quebec and Canada,” shared Chef Perret as he unveiled the new menu. The upcoming selections will feature delectable vegetarian, poultry, meat and fish options, using local and seasonal produce that showcase both French flair and Canadian freshness.
The event was a perfect blend of food, film and finesse. Nestled in the chic ambiance of the TIFF Founders Lounge, we indulged in a sampling of these gourmet meals. Each bite was a testament to the airline’s dedication to providing an unforgettable in-flight dining experience. The standout dishes? A succulent poultry entrée that was seasoned to perfection, and a vegetarian option that even the most die-hard meat lover would find irresistible. Trust us—Chef Perret’s creations are set to take Air France’s Business Class experience to new heights!
And let’s not forget the extras. Alongside this culinary preview, Air France’s increased flights between Toronto and Paris means even more opportunities to indulge in Chef Perret’s creations at 35,000 feet. Plus, the airline’s emphasis on local ingredients and sustainable practices means you can fly with a lighter conscience.
As we wrapped up the event and strolled through the TIFF grounds, we couldn’t help but feel a little more French. After all, we had just been pampered like royalty and given a sneak peek at what will soon be gracing Air France’s premium seats. Our verdict? If this menu is what the future of in-flight dining looks like, we’re already packing our bags for the next flight with Air France!
Bon voyage and bon appétit!
Photography courtesy of Brent Smith.
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