Liverpool endured a humiliating 4-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup quarterfinals, crashing out of the competition and intensifying pressure on manager Arne…
<img src="https://www.mtlblog.com/media-library/a-french-bee-plane-taking-off-right-rows-of-seating-inside-a-french-bee-plane.jpg?id=56552652&width=1200&height=800&coordinates=96%2C0%2C96%2C0"/><br/><br/><p>Get ready to say bonjour to <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/air-transat-montreal-spain">cheap flights to Europe</a>, Montreal! A <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/montreal-airport-low-cost-airline-french-bee">new low-cost airline is about to take off</a> in the city, making direct trips to France more affordable and more accessible.</p><p>French bee, a French low-cost, long-haul airline, is officially launching a direct route from <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/tag/montreal-trudeau-airport">Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau</a> to Paris-Orly on April 30, 2025. </p><p>So, if you've been dreaming of strolling along the Seine without blowing your entire travel budget, this might just be your chance.</p><p>If you're keen to explore outside of France's capital, there are other dreamy French destinations you can explore via French bee, too. Via Paris-Orly, you can hop on the TGV straight to dreamy destinations like Bordeaux or Angers.</p><p>The new route is part of the company's plans to grow across North America. According to a <a href="https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/french-bee-takes-flight-in-montreal-as-of-april-2025-814858699.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">recent press release</a>, the airline is "expanding its offer in Canada to meet the growing demand from North American customers for long-haul travel at competitive fares."</p><p>Unlike some low-cost carriers, French bee promises "smart-cost" flights — affordable, but still comfy.</p><p>Before you book, though, here's everything you need to know about Montreal's newest budget airline, including how much tickets are and, of course, the exact T&Cs of those cheap fares.</p><h3>Who is French bee?</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DFasISvx8W5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:8px;">
<div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;">
<div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">
</div>
</div>
<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DFasISvx8W5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
</p>
</div>
</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>French bee (yes, with a lowercase "b") is a French low-cost, long-haul airline that specializes in budget-friendly flights to dreamy destinations. Founded in 2016, the airline was originally called French Blue before <a href="https://community.infiniteflight.com/t/why-frenchblue-was-renamed/390337">rebranding to French bee</a>.</p><p>Its home base is Paris-Orly Airport, which is closer to the city centre than Charles de Gaulle, so you can get to that baguette and cafe au lait even faster.</p><p>The airline operates a <a href="https://ca.frenchbee.com/en/our-A350-fleet#jsfilm">fleet of Airbus A350s</a>, which are modern, fuel-efficient planes designed to offer a smoother ride with better cabin pressure, quieter engines, and more space. Basically, it's a budget airline that promises the experience doesn't feel like punishment.<br/></p><p>French bee's whole thing is about making long-haul travel more affordable without completely sacrificing comfort. While it follows a pay-for-what-you-need model like other low-cost airlines, it still offers perks like free entertainment, Wi-Fi options, and leather seats.</p><h3>How much are flights?</h3><br><p>As of February 19, here's a snapshot of French bee's pricing for the Montreal to Paris route:</p><ul><li>May 2025: One-way fares start at $337, ideal for travellers planning multi-country European adventures.</li><li>June 2025: Prices increase to around $482 one-way, reflecting peak summer demand.</li><li>October 2025 to January 2026: Fares drop back to around $350 one-way as the peak travel season ends.</li></ul><p>Round-trip tickets during the spring and summer months are available for as low as $475, with multiple dates offering these fares.</p><p>French bee's website has a user-friendly tool highlighting the most affordable fares on various dates, making it easier for flexible travellers to secure the cheapest fares.</p><p>Keep in mind that these figures represent base fares, typical of low-cost carriers. This means the initial price covers the seat and a personal item, with additional services available à la carte.</p><h3>Services and fares</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cqa0QEfqX-7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:8px;">
<div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;">
<div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">
</div>
</div>
<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cqa0QEfqX-7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
</p>
</div>
</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Like many low-cost carriers, French bee has a <a href="https://www.frenchbee.com/en/services-fares/fares">tiered fare system</a>, allowing passengers to customize their travel experience based on needs and budget. Here's a breakdown:</p><p><strong>Economy class:</strong></p><ol><li><strong>BEE LIGHT</strong>:<ul><li><strong>Included</strong>: Personal item, hand baggage (12 kg).</li><li><strong>Not Included</strong>: Checked baggage, meals, standard seat selection.</li><li><strong>Ideal For</strong>: Light packers and budget travellers comfortable without extras.</li></ul></li><li><strong>BEE LIGHT +</strong>:<ul><li><strong>Included</strong>: Personal item, hand baggage (12 kg), meals.</li><li><strong>Not Included</strong>: Checked baggage, standard seat selection.</li><li><strong>Ideal For: <strong></strong></strong>Travellers who want an included meal but still travel light.</li></ul></li><li><strong>BEE SMART</strong>:<ul><li><strong>Included</strong>: Personal item, hand baggage (12 kg), one checked bag (23 kg), meals.</li><li><strong>Not Included</strong>: Standard seat selection.</li><li><strong>Ideal For</strong>: Travellers seeking a balance between cost and convenience.</li></ul></li><li><strong>BEE FLEX</strong>:<ul><li><strong>Included</strong>: Personal item, hand baggage (12 kg), one checked bag (23 kg), meals, standard seat selection.</li><li><strong>Ideal For</strong>: Those who want flexibility and added comfort.</li></ul></li></ol><p><strong>Premium class:</strong></p><ol><li><strong>PREMIUM LIGHT</strong>:<ul><li><strong>Included</strong>: Personal item, hand baggage (12 kg), meals.</li><li><strong>Not Included</strong>: Checked baggage, standard seat selection.</li><li><strong>Ideal For</strong>: Passengers seeking premium seating without additional frills.</li></ul></li><li><strong>PREMIUM SMART</strong>:<ul><li><strong>Included</strong>: Personal item, hand baggage (12 kg), two checked bags (23 kg each), meals, standard seat selection.</li><li><strong>Ideal For</strong>: Travelers wanting a premium experience with added amenities.</li></ul></li><li><strong>PREMIUM FLEX</strong>:<ul><li><strong>Included</strong>: Personal item, hand baggage (12 kg), two checked bags (23 kg each), meals, standard seat selection.</li><li><strong>Ideal For</strong>: Those requiring maximum flexibility and comfort.</li></ul></li></ol><p><strong>Additional Services:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Checked baggage</strong> (for BEE LIGHT, BEE LIGHT + and PREMIUM LIGHT passengers):<ul><li>Booking more than 48 hours before departure: from $70.</li><li>Booking less than 48 hours before departure: from $140.</li></ul></li><li><strong>Seat Selection</strong>:<ul><li>Standard seat: from $30.</li><li>Window seat: from $40.</li><li>Maxi Leg seat: from $70.</li></ul></li><li><strong>Meals</strong> (for BEE LIGHT passengers): from $30 CAD.</li><li><strong>Wi-Fi</strong>: Starts at $4 for 10MB of access, ranging up to $29 for 200MB.</li></ul><p>Unlike some budget airlines, French bee does provide free entertainment for all passengers. Every seat has a HD touchscreen with a selection of movies, TV shows, and music, so you won't have to rely on downloaded Netflix episodes for the entire flight.</p><p>Particularly unusual is French bee’s <a href="https://ca.frenchbee.com/en/services-fares/our-services/cozy-cabin">Cozy Cabin</a>, which offers a more private experience with fewer seats at the front of the plane, creating a quieter atmosphere for sleeping or relaxing. Upgrades starting at $55 when booked at least 48 hours in advance.</p><p>A full list of available additional services, including priority boarding and lounge access, can be found <a href="https://ca.frenchbee.com/en/services-fares/our-services">online</a>.<span></span></p><h3>The future of cheap flights in Montreal</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C66jDqFt0WY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:8px;">
<div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;">
<div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">
</div>
</div>
<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C66jDqFt0WY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
</p>
</div>
</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>French bee's arrival in Montreal comes as other low-cost airlines are retreating from Canada. </p><p>Play Airlines is set to end its Canadian operations in April, leaving budget-conscious travellers with fewer options. Meanwhile, Lynx Airlines shut down last year, and WestJet absorbed budget carrier Swoop Airlines into its main operations in 2023. </p><p>Aviation expert John Gradek from McGill University <a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/toronto/consumer-alert/article/play-airlines-ceasing-operations-in-canada-leaving-passengers-unsure-of-what-comes-next/">told CTV News</a> in January that Canada hasn't exactly been a welcoming market for ultra low-cost carriers like French bee. Rising costs, inflation, and fierce competition from larger airlines have made it tough for these budget carriers to survive. </p><p>Whether French bee can buck the trend remains to be seen — but for now, Montrealers have a new way to fly to Paris without breaking the bank!<span></span></p></br><em>Before you get going, check out our <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/responsible-travel-guidelines" target="_blank">Responsible Travel Guide</a> so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.</em>
Columbia University's contracts and grants are under review after it was accused of failing to protect Jewish students on campus during anti-Israel protests.