WestJet has trimmed its March schedule by 20%, blaming continued restrictions that continue "to make travel inaccessible and punitive for Canadians and inbound tourists."
In a news release, WestJet expressed its belief that air travel is the most tested -- yet most restricted -- consumer activity in Canada.
"Travel advisories, restrictions and testing requirements were meant to be temporary, yet our industry has now reached an impasse that is severely impacting the recovery of our airline and sector," WestJet interim president and CEO Harry Taylor said in the statement.
"Canada remains the only country among the G7 nations to still require mandatory pre-departure and on-arrival PCR testing," continued Taylor. "Countries across the globe are recognizing the importance of travel and tourism on economic recovery and we are witnessing them take measures to safely re-open their borders and make sensible adjustments to overall travel guidance and testing requirements."
Taylor added that it is "disappointing that Canada remains stagnant in its approach."
The airline is advocating for a return to arrivals testing only and the elimination of quarantine and isolation for travellers awaiting their results after returning to Canada.
WestJet says passengers affected by the flight schedule reduction will be notified of changes to their itineraries by email. The airline previously cancelled 15% of January flights and 20% of its February schedule.
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