Canadian air travellers have began losing interest in trips south of the border, and now air carriers are pulling flights altogether.
Travel expert Claire Newell explains all 4 major Canadian airlines are making adjustments to flights to the U.S.
“Air Canada, WestJet, Porter and Flair have modified their schedule, not less than for the summer. They’re still going to most U.S. destinations, but with less capability,” said Newell.
The continued trade war between Canada and the U.S. isn’t only escalating tensions, it’s also putting the brakes on cross-border travel, specifically from Canada to the U.S.
“What we’re seeing is the forward bookings really change. Really, anything that’s overtly American, places which are normally really popular this time of yr, now we’re seeing a major decline in interest,” said Newell.
This decline has led WestJet to suspend select flights at Kelowna International Airport (YLW).
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“WestJet has suspended the Seattle service for the month of April and that service will proceed in May, presently. WestJet has also ended the Las Vegas service that we’ve to the U.S. early,” said Phillip Elchitz, Kelowna International Airport director of Operations and Innovations.
Meanwhile, flights from YLW inside Canada are on the rise.
“Domestic travel is up considerably, in addition to seats. Seat capability domestically this summer goes to be up 10 per cent in comparison with last yr, in order that’s excellent news. And yr up to now, we’ve actually seen a 15-per cent increase in travel and demand domestically,” said Elchitz.
Nonetheless, Claire Newell warns that if the trade conflict escalates, travellers might see more changes to flight schedules, including the potential for smaller aircraft or fewer flights. She says, “It could be a change within the aircraft, selecting a smaller aircraft to service the destination. It could mean less frequency.”
The political climate and the influence of U.S. President Donald Trump are also affecting travel perceptions. A recent Abacus Data poll revealed that 66 per cent of Canadians feel the present situation has made the U.S. a less attractive travel destination.
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