Competition Bureau requires information from Air Canada and WestJet for its investigation

The Competition Bureau of Canada obtained court orders from the Federal Court with respect to the two largest scheduled air carriers in Canada.

These orders force Air Canada et WestJet to provide information as part of the air transportation market study undertaken by the federal agency to better understand competition in the airline industry in Canada.

Study objectives

This study, remember, intends to examine the challenges and opportunities in this vital sector for travelers. It started on July 29.

Its aim is to obtain analyzes on the state of competition in the sector, examine barriers to entry for new players – including government policies and access to airports, as well as information on agreements with them and interests in other airlines in Canada.

In addition, performance indicators from before the pandemic to today are also requested.

Although this is not an investigation into specific allegations, the Competition Bureau may initiate action if violations are discovered.

New intelligence collection powers

This is the first time, it should be noted, that the Competition Bureau has used its new powers to collect information in a market study. The orders require companies to provide documents and answer written questions relating to different aspects of the market.