From mid-January 2023, travelers will notice some turbulence in their travels. Air Canada is ending direct flights from Saskatchewan to and from Calgary starting next month.
In a statement, Air Canada says it wants to rebuild in a prudent and disciplined manner by deploying resources where they will be most productive. The company added that it will continue to focus on major hubs in Canada such as Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal.
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“As a result, we have made the difficult decision to suspend a number of regional routes from Calgary Airport effective mid-January. 2023,” Air Canada said.
“While changes are being made to some regional routes, it is important to note that Air Canada will continue to fly to every community it currently operates in. Saskatoon and Regina will continue to see flights to/from Toronto and Vancouver.”
The Regina Airport Authority’s manager of customer experience and marketing said it will be disappointing as there is currently only one flight a day to Calgary with Air Canada.
“They will have to look at WestJet, which currently flies from Regina to Calgary about three to five times a day and in the spring, five to six times that is currently in their schedule,” said Justin Reves.
“So, they will have to choose another airline. But money also opens up opportunities for an ultra-low-cost carrier like Lynx, Flair or Swoop to come in and help fill that void left by Air Canada.
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CJ Dushinski, vice president of business development and service quality at Skyxe Saskatoon Airport, said it was surprising news to them as they heard late last week.
“It is a loss for the market and the community. It’s definitely disappointing,” she said. “We hope to see Air Canada pick up some additional seats in their other hubs like Toronto and Vancouver to help offset this loss.”
In a letter to Air Canada’s president and chief executive officer and executive vice president and chief operating officer, the president and CEO of Economic Development Regina (EDR) expressed disappointment and highlighted the need for connectivity.
“EDR stands ready to participate in these types of discussions and it is with hope and respect that we ask you
to reconsider this operational decision and commit to a renewal and eventual extension of service to
Regina,” Chris Lane said. “It’s good for Air Canada, it’s good for Regina, and it’s good for the country.”
In an emailed statement, WestJet says it has no plans to reduce service levels to Saskatoon or Regina and will continue to focus on improving Western Canada’s connectivity.
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