November 9 - The National Airlines Council of Canada, representing Canada’s largest air carriers (Air Canada, Air Transat, Jazz Aviation LP and WestJet), commented on November 8th announcement by Transport Minister Marc Garneau that the federal government will now enter discussions with major airlines regarding financial assistance, due to COVID-19.

 

“The pandemic has had a devastating impact on airlines, our employees, on regional service, and the communities we serve across the country. Airlines are struggling to remain viable because of the economic chaos crated by COVID-19. All measures have been taken to reduce costs, and revenue has fallen beyond the means of even the most extreme cost cutting measures to address. The industry will not recover without strong federal leadership. We are encouraged by the government’s decision to work with carriers to try and stabilize the sector”, said Mike McNaney President and CEO of the National Airlines Council of Canada.

 

It is anticipated discussions with carriers will begin this week. As this work gets underway, the industry will continue its ongoing efforts to establish COVID-19 testing programs in conjunction with our airport partners, and establish a coordinated testing strategy with the federal government. “In addition to financial support, a federal testing strategy for aviation is critical to ensuring the industry is able to safely restart, address regional travel restrictions and international border measures, and ensure aviation is able to play the central role it must play in Canada’s eventual economic recovery,” concluded McNaney.

 

 

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