Either way, Aebig suggested that public choice has been harmed. The 11-page complaint outlines the frustrations submitted on behalf of the chamber, and asks the bureau to determine whether there has been collusion between Air Canada and WestJet.Īebig said this is something that is very difficult to determine - whether express or passive agreement took place between airlines to each pursue only certain parts of the air carrier market while leaving other parts of the market available to each other.

She added in another message that WestJet has announced a further increase in service between Saskatoon and Calgary beginning in February to help accommodate passengers travelling to Calgary, though the airport is still awaiting the updated schedule for confirmation. In an email, CJ Dushinski, vice-president of business development and service quality with the Saskatoon airport, said the complaint was made solely by the Saskatoon Greater Chamber of Commerce and the airport was not consulted or notified in advance and “is unable to comment.” “If Air Canada is unwilling to explain its decision to its customers and shareholders, it can explain its decision to its regulators,” Aebig said. “From our point of view, really the best and only option was to seek a review by the regulator,” Aebig said, calling it something that Air Canada’s board, shareholders and executive team “cannot ignore in the months ahead.” No political solution is available for the problems the airline has created for Saskatchewan travellers, who now face higher prices as a result of reduced choice for how to reach their destination.

He said that Air Canada, as a privately held company, is accountable to its shareholders and board of directors. Jason Aebig, the CEO of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce, said the chamber has asked Canada’s Competition Bureau to investigate and ascertain why Air Canada decided to pull its planes off a flight route that has been profitable and in strong demand for the past three decades.Īebig said that “business decision” is one he’s been trying to understand. A complaint lodged against Air Canada has asked a government watchdog to review the airline after its decision to stop flights between Saskatoon and Calgary.

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