Is ultra-low cost air travel doomed to fail in Canada?
Mar 5, 2024
auto_awesome
Exploring the downfall of Lynx Air and the struggles of ultra-low-cost airlines in Canada. Why do discount carriers keep failing? Is expensive air travel the norm for Canadians? Guest speaker sheds light on the challenges faced in the aviation industry.
Ulcc airlines in Canada struggle due to high operating costs and extra charges, making sustained business challenging.
Geographical challenges, sparse population, and stringent ownership regulations in Canada hinder ultra-low-cost airlines' sustainability.
Deep dives
Reasons for Lynx Air's Closure
Lynx Air announced applying for credit protection and winding down operations due to higher operating costs, fuel price increases during the pandemic, unfavorable exchange rates, and rising airport fees. The closure, less than two years after its inception, left customers stranded and facing additional costs for alternative travel.
Challenges Low-Cost Carriers Face in Canada
Low-cost carriers like Lynx struggle in Canada compared to large carriers like Air Canada due to the no-frills experience they offer with additional charges for services like carry-on bags. Factors like high operating costs, pilot salary increases post-pandemic, and Canada's aviation market difficulties make it challenging for discount carriers to sustain business.
Geographical and Regulatory Hurdles for Cheap Airlines in Canada
Canada's vast territory, sparse population, and high airport fees pose significant challenges for ultra-low-cost carriers like Lynx. Geographical and demographic differences from the US and EU impact the airline industry's cost structure. Additionally, stringent ownership regulations in Canada limit major investments from potential stakeholders, further impacting the sustainability of cheap airlines in the country.
The ultralow-cost airline abruptly announced its exit from Canadian skies just ahead of busy March Break travel. Customers were left scrambling to make new – and likely more expensive – bookings.
The company now joins a growing list of failed discount airlines in the country. Why can’t they seem to stick around for the long haul? Are Canadians just doomed to always pay more for our air travel?
GUEST: Jonah Prousky, Management consultant and freelance writer who focuses on business, technology and society
We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: