Air Canada, WestJet Further Delay 737 MAX Operations

Air Canada and WestJet have now removed the Boeing 737 MAX from their operating schedules until at least June.

Air Canada said 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 schedule through June 30 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. Customers affected by these changes will be advised of their new itineraries and offered suitable travel options.

Following Boeing’s announcement, WestJet announced it will be updating its schedule to remove the aircraft through to June 24. Any affected guests will be proactively contacted once work is complete.

“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.”

WestJet has completed more than 98 per cent of its planned departures even while its 13 MAX aircraft remain on the ground.