A strong and competitive air travel industry is essential for Canada's economic prosperity and to meet the travel needs of Canadians. The Government of Canada pays careful attention to the air sector and works to ensure arrangements are conducive to competition and in the public interest.
Air Canada and United Airlines have notified the Minister of Transport that they want to update their existing joint business arrangement, known commonly as a joint venture, for flights between Canada and the United States, under the Canada Transportation Act.
The two airlines have operated under this arrangement since 2022. It allows them to work together on certain Canada-U.S. routes by coordinating activities such as flight schedules, ticket prices, marketing, sales and revenue management.
As the new joint venture arrangement raises considerations to public interest, Transport Canada officials are examining the proposed arrangement through a public interest assessment. This assessment includes consultations to hear from Canadians, including air industry representatives, consumer organizations and other stakeholders. It will examine the potential economic impacts for Canadians, challenges and effects on competition of the proposed transaction.
Canadians are encouraged to have their say on letstalktransportation.ca from now until November 15.
