Barrett asks Air Canada president not to cut flights to province

Air Canada should not cut flights to Newfoundland and Labrador, said Works, Services and Transportation Minister Percy Barrett today in a letter to Air Canada President Robert Milton.

"In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks in the United States, Air Canada and its regional carrier are cutting flights and jobs and removing aircraft from their combined fleet. I realize some of this is necessary given the decrease in passenger volumes since the tragic events of September 11," said Barrett. "But because part of our province is an island not physically connected to the rest of the country, air service is a necessity. Given our geographic location within Canada and previous demand for increased and improved service, I have requested there be no reduction in scheduled air services operated by Air Canada and its regional carrier to, from and within Newfoundland and Labrador.

"The future of economic development within this province rests on a strong transportation system of which Air Canada is a major component. As I have yet to be informed how this province will be specifically affected, I ask Mr. Milton to seriously consider our circumstances in Newfoundland and Labrador. If Air Canada is hoping to improve consumer confidence in flying, then cutting flights to an area where capacity was already a problem is not the answer." 

Mr. Barrett offered to meet with Mr. Milton at his earliest convenience to discuss the future of air service for Newfoundland and Labrador.

Media contact: Lynn Evans, Communications, (709) 729-3015.

2001 10 02                                4:15 p.m.