OTTAWA — Canadian government will provide $160 million in emergency aid for Canada’s airline industry as it considers restructuring in the wake of the terrorist attacks on the United States, announced David Collenette, Transport Minister.
The money is aimed at compensating Canadian air carriers which “through no fault of their own” were restricted from flying for several days following the September 11 attacks on World Trade Centre and Pentagon.
“The package announced today provides compensation to air carriers for the Government of Canada’s decision to close Canada’s airspace following the tragic events in the United States,” said Mr. Collenette. “It provides much needed funds for air carriers and specialty air operators recovering from the sudden disruption in business associated with these unprecedented events.”
The $160 million program announced today incorporates the cost of administering the compensation program and allows for the possibility of larger claims once all data are submitted and assessed.
Licensed air carriers in Canada who provide scheduled and charter air transportation for passengers and cargo, and speciality air operators who offer services such as flight training, aerial surveying and heli-logging, will be eligible for the program.
