20 April 2005

Canada and the People’s Republic of China Conclude New Bilateral Air Agreement

The following news release was issued by Transport Canada on 19 April, and is available in its entirety on their web site, at http://www.tc.gc.ca/mediaroom/releases/nat/2005/05-h081e.htm.

Transport Minister Jean-C. Lapierre and International Trade Minister Jim Peterson … announced the conclusion of a new and expanded bilateral air transport agreement with the People’s Republic of China.

The new agreement provides for a three-fold increase in permitted passenger and cargo flights to be operated by more airlines between more city pairs and under more flexible operating conditions than under the previous agreement. The new agreement also contains strong aviation safety and security provisions….

The new entitlements under the agreement for airline operations include possibilities for additional passenger, all-cargo and code-sharing air services by the airlines of Canada and China. The higher permitted frequency of weekly flights has been put in place to accommodate growing demand in the bilateral air travel market. The strong aviation safety and security provisions agreed to indicate the importance that both countries attach to these matters.

As a consequence of these improvements to the bilateral air transport arrangements, Air Canada, Cargojet and Harmony Airways intend to introduce new air services. Air Transat and All Canada Express have also expressed interest in serving China.

• http://www.tc.gc.ca/mediaroom/releases/nat/2005/05-h081e.htm