In a landmark moment for bitcoin adoption, Bitcoin Travel, El Salvador’s pioneering blockchain-based travel platform, today announced the sale of its first airline ticket fully paid with bitcoin.
The historic transaction, completed just 60 days after the platform’s launch, marks a pivotal step toward realizing El Salvador’s ambition to become a global leader in bitcoin innovation.
First Flight, Global Milestone
The inaugural booking, processed on April 29, 2025, secures a flight from Brussels, Belgium, to Montreal, Canada, operated by Air Transat (TSX: TRZ), a leading leisure carrier. 
The ticket was purchased by the Lanhove family, who utilized bitcoin to finalize their travel plans seamlessly through BitcoinTravel.com’s platform. This milestone underscores the viability of bitcoin for mainstream commercial use and aligns with El Salvador’s trailblazing adoption of bitcoin as legal tender in 2021.
El Salvador’s Bitcoin Leadership
As the first nation to adopt bitcoin as legal tender, El Salvador continues to champion digital currency integration across industries. BitcoinTravel.com, headquartered in San Salvador, leverages this progressive ecosystem to offer travelers a frictionless payment alternative.
The platform converts bitcoin payments instantly into fiat currency for partnering airlines, mitigating volatility risks while expanding customer choice.
A New Era for Travel and Finance
BitcoinTravel.com’s platform, designed for security and ease, allows users to browse flights, compare prices, and complete bookings using bitcoin. Transactions are processed via the Lightning Network, ensuring near-instant settlement and minimal fees. The company plans to expand its partnerships with airlines, hotels, and tourism providers in 2025.
Global Implications
This breakthrough follows El Salvador’s recent initiatives, including bitcoin-backed bonds and the development of “Bitcoin City,” a tax-free digital currency hub. Meanwhile, countries like Panama and Switzerland are advancing legislation to integrate digital currency into public and private sectors, signaling a broader shift toward digital currency adoption.
About BitcoinTravel.com
Bitcoin Travel is a San Salvador-based online travel agency leveraging blockchain technology to enable bitcoin payments for flights, accommodations, and experiences. Launched in February 2025, the platform partners with global airlines and hospitality providers to offer secure, digital currency-friendly travel solutions.
About Air Transat
Air Transat, a subsidiary of Transat A.T. Inc., is Canada’s leading leisure airline, offering direct flights to over 60 international destinations. Recognized for its environmental commitment, Air Transat has been awarded the “World’s Best Leisure Airline” by Skytrax multiple times.
