America’s tourism industry is feeling the ripple effects of strained U.S.-Canada relations, as new data reveals a dramatic plunge in Canadian travel to the United States. The culprit? Political posturing from Canadian officials unhappy with President Donald Trump’s unapologetically pro-American trade policies.
According to aviation analytics firm OAG, forward bookings from Canada to U.S. destinations have plummeted by over 70% through September, with April travel bookings down a staggering 76% compared to last year. Just 296,000 Canadian bookings were recorded for April, down from 1.3 million—a steep decline by any measure.
U.S. Tourism Hit Hard, But Resilience Remains
Canada has long been a top source of international tourism for the United States. In 2024 alone, Canadians made over 20 million visits to America, injecting more than $20.5 billion into the U.S. economy and supporting an estimated 140,000 American jobs, according to the U.S. Travel Association.
Now, those numbers are dropping fast.
Airlines are scaling back accordingly. In just three weeks between March 3 and March 24, carriers cut over 320,000 seats on U.S.-bound flights from Canada, covering routes all the way through October.
The root cause? Political hostility driven by trade disputes, nationalist rhetoric, and Canada’s growing boycott of American goods and travel—a movement being pushed by Canadian leaders and left-wing activists.
Canada Launches Boycott Campaign Amid Trump’s America First Agenda
President Trump’s tariffs on steel, aluminum, and imported automobiles are working as intended: defending American industries and leveling the trade playing field. But instead of working toward cooperation, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney labeled the tariffs a “direct attack” and has encouraged retaliatory measures—including discouraging travel to the U.S.
Former Canadian PM Justin Trudeau echoed that sentiment, urging Canadians to “buy Canadian” and skip U.S. vacation spots in favor of domestic alternatives.
Even Canada’s travel advisories now caution against visiting the United States, citing immigration rules and politically charged claims about LGBTQ+ concerns—further fueling division.
American Airlines Brace for a Slowdown — But Cheap Flights May Be Ahead
OAG’s chief analyst, John Grant, noted that while Canadian travel may slow, it could create opportunities for American travelers. With airlines cutting capacity, there may be deep discounts and cheap flight deals available in the months ahead.
“Airlines may offer especially low airfares to stimulate demand,” Grant said. “But for carriers, it’s going to be a tense few months—especially if the snowbird market takes a hit next winter.”
This is a perfect time for U.S. travelers to score discounted airfare, especially for routes previously dominated by Canadian tourists. Search for travel deals now before prices rebound.
Canadian Politicians Push Anti-American Narrative
Canadian labor leaders and academics are also fanning the flames. Lana Payne, head of Canada’s largest private-sector union, claimed the U.S.-Canada friendship has been “severely damaged” by Trump’s actions. Others are even more extreme, accusing Trump of trying to make Canada the “51st state.”
In response, a White House spokesperson joked:
“Canadians won’t have to worry about international travel inconveniences once they become proud citizens of our cherished 51st state.”
America First Means Standing Strong — With or Without Canada
Despite the noise from the north, most Americans stand with President Trump’s tough stance on trade. The America First agenda is delivering real results: fairer trade deals, stronger borders, and more jobs for American workers.
If Canada wants to boycott U.S. products and vacations, so be it. America will thrive either way—and patriotic travelers, retirees, and snowbirds are already finding new travel deals and opportunities in this shifting market.
🛫 Travel Tip:
Looking for discounted flights or hotel deals in the U.S.? Now is a great time to book early and save big—especially in top destinations like Florida, Arizona, and Texas.