WestJet, Air Canada Say No Flights Before Late June

Following Boeing's update on recertification of the Boeing 737 MAX airplane released this week, several airlines have again adjusted their plans for returning the airplane to revenue service.

Air Canada has now removed its 24 Boeing 737 MAX airplanes from its operating schedule until June 30, 2020. The decision is based on operational considerations following an announcement by Boeing Co. that it now estimates the 737 MAX will remain grounded by regulators until mid-2020.

Air Canada is removing the Boeing 737 MAX from its operating scheduled to provide customers certainty when planning and booking their travel. It will also allow the airline to manage its schedule and fleet most effectively as it awaits decisions by Canadian and international regulators on returning the 737 MAX safely into service.

WestJet will be updating its schedule to remove the aircraft through to June 24, 2020.

"We thank our guests for their patience and our WestJetters for their commitment to keeping our airline moving safely and on time as we continue to adjust our schedule," said Ed Sims, WestJet president and CEO. "We remain confident in the regulatory process undertaken by the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) and Transport Canada to ensure the safe return of the aircraft."

Prior to Boeing's announcement, American Airlines and Southwest had announced that the 737 MAX was off the schedule until June 4 and 6, respectively. Updates on those and other carriers will be reported as they become available.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.westjet.com
www.aircanada.com