Flair Airlines, the last ultra-low-cost carrier to remain standing in Canada, has contracted a new payment processor, following several days of booking disruptions.
Beginning last Friday, some Canadian customers encountered a page on the Flair website saying there was a technical issue. On Tuesday, the airline apologized for the service interruption and confirmed its systems were back up and running.
Flair says it has completed a transition to a new payment processor and marked the occasion with a 20% off seat sale.
“We appreciate our customers’ patience during the transition and, as we prepare for peak travel season and beyond, we look forward to welcoming them on board,” the airline said.
Flair recently accused financial services firm Peoples Trust of withholding about $25 million in funds from the company. The airline said in a press release that Peoples Trust has “played a crucial role in facilitating the regular transfer of funds to Flair Airlines” for over a year.
Stephen Jones, CEO Flair Airlines. (Photo Credit: Flair)
Flair CEO Stephen Jones said at the time that the company planned to pursue a resolution through legal channels, but announced yesterday that it has withdrawn legal action.
“Flair Airlines is very pleased to have amicably resolved this matter, and we are grateful for their collaboration. We anticipate a strong summer performance as we move forward.” said Flair Airlines CEO, Stephen Jones.
The booking disruption was bad news for an airline that continues to battle for public confidence after a series of events that created negative headlines and fears for its future viability. The first indication of trouble came in early 2023 when an aircraft lessor seized four Flair aircraft. More negative press came when it was revealed that Flair owes the federal government more than $67 million in aircraft import duties.
Flair Airlines Logo (Photo Credit: Flair Airlines Logo)
Recently, CEO Jones lashed out at the Globe and Mail, after the newspaper suggested that cutting 600 flights from Flair’s March-May schedule was due to “financial woes.” Jones says the flights were cut to make room for longer flights to more lucrative destinations.
While consumer confidence in booking Flair remains a critical issue, Jones still maintains the airline is here to stay.
“I assure all Canadians of Flair Airlines’ unwavering commitment to the success and longevity of the ULCC model in Canada. We’re here for the long haul, ready to meet the travel needs of Canadians with determination. With Lynx Air’s exit, Flair Airlines’ role in the market is even more critical,” Jones says.
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