(Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By rdnewsNOW staff

grounded

Air Canada halting service to Lethbridge, Medicine Hat

Mar 12, 2020 | 11:25 AM

Air Canada is suspending service at airports in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat at the end of this month.

The City of Lethbridge said in a statement that they were disappointed to learn about the development.

“Since we have taken over operation of the airport, we have placed great emphasis on our desire to increase the viability of the airport,” city officials said.

Lethbridge officials say the airport has great opportunities for growth for passengers and for economic development.

“The airport remains one of City Council’s top priorities.”

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There are unknowns at this point regarding airlines and passenger flights, but the municipality is “confident that we will continue to move forward in a positive way.”

It is unclear if the decision has anything to do with the COVID-19 pandemic or if it was purely a business decision that was already being considered.

Tracy Noullett, President of the Medicine Hat Chamber of Commerce, issued a statement regarding Air Canada’s decision.

“While businesses have indicated that they would choose to fly out of Medicine Hat, if the fares were more reasonable and schedules would accommodate same daytime business travel, we continue to face obstacles related to a more conducive model for air service,” Noullett said.

“We are very disappointed by the announcement, as Air Canada has provided service to Medicine Hat for many years, “ Medicine Hat Airport Manager Jeff Huntus said in the same release. ““Unfortunately, the economic conditions, along with the recent concerns with Covid-19, have resulted in this decision. However, when things improve, we will commence our collective efforts to try to have them return to our market again.”

Anyone with questions about cancelled flights is asked to reach out to Air Canada directly.

(With file from Alex McCuaig and David Opinko)