Board of Trade welcomes airline support

Apr. 12, 2021

VANCOUVER, B.C. —Over a year into the global pandemic, the federal government announced a package of reimbursable supports available to the airline sector and taken up by Air Canada.In response, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade President and CEO, Bridgitte Anderson, released the following statement:

“Prior to the pandemic, air transportation was a $10-billion industry in Canada and employed upwards of 80,000 people. Over 26 million people a year came to our province through YVR, our world-class airport.

The pandemic has ground airlines, and the broader tourism and travel sector, to a halt. When governments implement measures that necessitate the closure or complete destruction of economic activity, there should be compensation provided. That is why governments all around the world have taken action to support their domestic airlines.

Air connectivity enhances opportunity for Canadians and so we are pleased that the government has recognized the impact and stepped up to provide support. Given the vastness of our country and the importance of our international connections, it is critical that our airlines and the travel sector remain viable.

Moving forward, we encourage the government to continue to work with the travel industry broadly to plan for a safe restart of travel when it is safe to do so. This work includes the application of rapid testing, and the exploration of new technologies to ensure we have an effective and efficient border crossing. It is critical that these conversations begin in earnest now and are inclusive of the industry to ensure that Canada’s economy is not left behind as the vaccine roll-out takes hold.”

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About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Pacific Canada's leading business association, engaging members to impact public policy at all levels of government and to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through four unique Signature Programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events programs in the country, providing a platform for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.

Media contact:

Victor Young
Communications Manager
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com