INTERNATIONAL SCHEDULED AIR SERVICES
Winnipeg is not satisfied with its current level of international scheduled air services. Indeed, beyond limited transborder services to the United States, Winnipeg no longer has any direct non-stop international (scheduled) services. Such services are essential to support trade and commerce for both goods and people, business and tourism. Toronto serves as the primary access for local business to international markets, followed by Minneapolis, which provides 30 per cent of Winnipeg’s international access services.
Winnipeg and Manitoba, as relatively small markets, face special challenges in developing more direct non-stop international services. These challenges could, in part, be overcome with a liberal environment in order to take advantage of opportunities at the margin.
The Chamber recognizes the realities of market economics for Canadian carriers that wish to feed their network hubs. Winnipeg’s geographic location, however, does provide a significant economic advantage. The past international air policy, focused on the needs of Canadian carriers, has not permitted Winnipeg to fully exploit its geographic advantage.
Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce Recommendation:
- Manitoba favours further liberalization of international air services, including negotiation with the United States on the “Open Skies” treaty. Manitoba, while generally supportive of liberalization of international air cargo, is however concerned that introduction of cabotage-like liberalization of trans-border services holds the potential to put the Canadian air cargo industry at a competitive disadvantage versus the U.S.
Adopted by The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce board of directors, May 2001