The first flight on a new Air Canada Rouge route between Glasgow and Toronto has taken off.

The airline will operate three times per week from Glasgow to Toronto Pearson International Airport until September 25 this year.

The new service departs Glasgow three times per week on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 8.30am and arrives in Toronto at 10.55am local time the same day.

The return flight departs Toronto three times per week on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 6.55pm and arrives in Glasgow at 6.40am the next day local time.

Margaret Skinner, Air Canada's director of sales in Europe, said: "Air Canada has a long history in Scotland, with our first flight arriving in Prestwick in 1943.

"We are proud to serve the Scottish market and excited to launch this new service from Glasgow to Toronto today.

"This new route will offer our customers in the west of Scotland increased travel options, providing not only non-stop access to Toronto but also convenient connections through our Air Canada Toronto hub to our extensive network in Canada, the USA, Latin America and the Caribbean."

International development minister Alasdair Allan said: "The launch of this service between Glasgow and Toronto is fantastic news and I'm delighted to see it get off the ground today.

"It will benefit both business travellers and tourists, bringing improved access to international markets making Scotland even more attractive as a tourist destination.

"I hope this service will help build on the historic and cultural bonds between our two countries. I wish Glasgow Airport and Air Canada Rouge every success with this route."

Amanda McMillan, managing director of Glasgow Airport, said: "Canada has always been a hugely important market for Scotland and the introduction of this new service will provide passengers with access to Air Canada's extensive route network throughout the Americas.

"The service will also enhance our links with what is the world's largest group of airlines, Star Alliance, and we're delighted to welcome on board such a major player in global aviation during what is our 50th anniversary year."