Porter Airlines is undergoing a massive transformation pivoting from operating only small turboprop aircraft from Canada to the Eastern United States. In February 2023 Porter Airlines entered the jet age adding flights throughout Canada out of Toronto Pierson on the Embraer E195-E2. Back in February 2023 Porters Economy product on the E195-E2 was reviewed from Toronto (YYZ) to Montreal (YUL). Porter also offers an elevated economy product called “Porter Reserve” which will be reviewed on their inaugural flight from Toronto Pierson (YYZ) to Tampa International Airport (TPA).
Pre Flight-Experience
Porter reserve tickets have some extra benefits over an economy ticket including no change fees, two free checked bags, a dedicated check in area with priority boarding, extra legroom seats in the front of the aircraft as well as premium meals and snacks. As this is Porter’s inaugural flight, Porter rolled out some special festivities including a chance to win a ticket give away. Teas and coffees were placed right at the gate area. Each passenger received a $150 future travel credit in celebration of the new route.
Boarding commenced right on time with those needing extra assistance boarding first followed by Porter Reserve passengers. The lead flight attendant greeted passengers and directed them to their assigned seats. No pre departure beverages were offered as found on some domestic and international business class products. Pushback and takeoff were right on time. On the Embraer E195-E2 the takeoff is powerful yet is significantly quieter than that of a legacy Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft.
Inflight Experience
Upon passing through 10,000 feet the inflight crew began the inflight service. Prior to the service, full size menus were handed out. There are a handful of meal options to select in Porter Reserve. Meal selections for breakfast and lunch / dinner vary depending on if the aircraft is departing or arriving in Toronto. Prior to making the meal selection a light “appetizer” consisting of a Mexican dip with crackers and bread was served.
Unlike other airlines, beverages are served in a glass cup even in economy with this flight being no exception. Meals for this evening’s flight include the Soba Noodle Bowl, Grilled Salmon Bowl, croissant sandwich or the cheese and fruit tray. After some tough decision making the Soba noodles with tofu was selected.
Wi-Fi is available to VIPorter members free of charge for the entire duration of the flight. If one does not have a VIPorter number, they can simply add an account to access the Wi-Fi at no incurred charge. Performing a speed test throughout the flight, the system was able to handle most web and email applications without difficulty. For the entire duration of the flight the ViaSat powered Wi-Fi remained operational.
Should electronics run low on battery, there are two AC power outlets located between the seats. Speaking of seats, the Porter Reserve Seats (rows 1 through 4) feature36inches of pitch, 18.3 inches seat width and 2 inches of recline. Seat padding is adequate but begins to feel stiff after two hours of elapsed flight time.
Final Approach
Porter Airlines offers a stellar onboard product on both their Bombardier Q-400 turboprops and Embraer E195-E2 jets. This inaugural service to Tampa aboard the Porter Reserve aboard the E195-E2 is no exception. From the professional ground staff to the attentive crew and expansive complimentary meal selections, Porter Airlines Porter Reserve holds a strong value for the money. Little touches like having glassware in all class does a stellar job at adding a premium touch. In an industry where airlines are offering the same bland onboard offerings, Porter Airlines Porter Reserve product is a step above the rest.
