Virgin Atlantic, Sir Richard Branson's Sussex-based airline, is to start London to Toronto services next summer.
Virgin will operate daily flights from Gatwick using Boeing 747 aircraft capable of carrying 422 passengers.
Sir Richard said: "It's long been my ambition to fly to Toronto and I am thrilled to be able to announce our plans."
Fares to the Canadian city will be announced in the new year.
The airline's sister company, Virgin Holidays, which is based in Crawley, will offer a full holiday programme to coincide with the launch of the new route.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article