Attention Appreciated, But More Needed: Sunwing

Sunwing has reacted to the federal government’s Fall Economic Statement, observing that: “Since March, when Sunwing halted flight service and made dramatic changes to our workforce in response to the pandemic, we have continued to tirelessly advocate for the interests of our industry and the thousands of Canadians it employs.”

And the company says that: “We appreciate the attention that has been provided to this matter from senior Government of Canada officials, as well as a range of important and necessary business supports, including the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy.”

However, Sunwing’s statement continues: “Having said that, we are disappointed that [the Nov 30] fiscal update did not contain dedicated relief for Canadian airlines.”

It points out that: “We have cooperated with government directives and patiently waited for a lifeline that would preserve our business over the months ahead. We remain hopeful about the government’s comments in relation to airline support, but the message to keep waiting for details is a difficult one for our industry. To date, the government has not provided a proposal on airline-specific assistance, so it would be premature to comment on how this relates to our refund policy.”

And Sunwing’s statement concludes: “Nonetheless, we remain open to collaborating in good faith on any solutions that benefit our industry, its employees, and consumers.”