Canada, Mexico reach expanded air transport agreement

OTTAWA, Ont. — Canada and Mexico have reached an expanded air transport agreement in an effort to facilitate increased travel and trade between the two countries.

“As Canada’s third largest air transport market, Mexico is an important bilateral aviation partner,” said Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. “The expanded air transport agreement builds on the existing air transport agreement to benefit travellers, shippers, and the business sectors of both countries.”

The expanded agreement provides a completely open framework for direct flights between Canada and Mexico, thereby allowing any number of airlines from both countries to offer more services between any Canadian and Mexican cities. The agreement also provides greater flexibility to adjust prices according to market forces and modernizes safety and security provisions.

“Expanded air service with Mexico is great news for Canadian exporters, travellers and investors,” added Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway. “Canada-Mexico economic relations have strengthened significantly – creating jobs and economic growth – since the historic NAFTA entered into force in 1994. Our trade has more than quadrupled during that time and this is proof that we are on the right track with our job-creating free trade plan. Additional air transport connectivity will encourage even more prosperity.”

The agreement is being applied on an administrative basis, allowing airlines to offer new services immediately, once designated by the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities.