Aviation sector pleads for sector-specific aid as Canada considers new travel restrictions

The new travel measures could also include a mandatory hotel quarantine for all incoming travellers, who would have to bear the additional burden and expense and might stop leisure travelling, experts say.

The aviation industry warned that its long-term survival is already at stake.

Mike Mueller, senior vice-president of the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada, said Canadian businesses in the civil, defense and aerospace sectors have lost over 40 per cent of their revenue due to reduced international travel caused by COVID-19.

After Canada's federal government made it mandatory for all travellers to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test before entering Canada, things got even worse causing the cancellation of at least 50,000 travel reservations.

As a result of this West Jet had to slash routes and laid off staff, while Air Transat suspended all flights out of Toronto.

Although the industry has received $1.5 billion in federal aid through the Canada emergency wage subsidy, the industry wants is a sector-specific financial aid package.

The government of Canada's commitment to supporting Canadian airlines and workers said a spokesperson for Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland that granting of new support to the airline industry is subject to airlines agreeing to refund cancelled flights, protect jobs and restore regional routes.

(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)