The House of Commons Transport Committee says it will investigate airport delays and flight
cancellations across Canada.
Members of the federal committee voted unanimously to study the problems Canadians are
experiencing this summer as travel demand returns and airports are packed with tourists.
The committee plans to invite federal Transport Minister Omar Alghabra to testify and will hold
its first hearing before the end of August.
Airlines and airports in Canada have been struggling with a surge in travel this summer, as well
as staff shortages, high fuel costs, overcrowding, and scheduling problems.
The issues have resulted in widespread flight cancellations, baggage delays, and lengthy
lineups at airports large and small across Canada.
Canada has been ranked by some airline and travel associations as having the worst airport
delays and flight cancellations in the developed world.
Airlines laid off hundreds of workers at the start of the pandemic and have struggled to quickly
rehire workers as travel demand roars back this summer.
Air Canada (AC) announced in June that it planned to cut 15% of its scheduled flights in July
and August, more than 9,500 flights, due to the strained air transport system.
Transport Canada said the government and the aviation industry are working together to
improve travel, including by boosting staff levels and improving the ArriveCan app for foreigners
entering Canada.
Last week, the Greater Toronto Airport Authority said delays at Pearson International Airport,
Canada’s busiest airline hub, are declining but refused to provide timelines on when travel times
will improve.
Air Canada is facing criticism for refusing to compensate passengers whose flights have been
cancelled or delayed due to staff shortages at the airline.
Air Canada stock is down 17% this year at $18.42 per share.
