WestJet CEO calls for national aviation strategy, saying U.S. airlines have it easier

WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech has called for a national aviation strategy to improve competitiveness and affordability in Canada's airline industry. In the interview, von Hoensbroech highlighted how labour laws, passenger rights, taxes, and fees currently impede growth and reduce profitability for domestic carriers. The CEO pointed out that Canadian airlines bear higher costs compared to their U.S. counterparts, citing areas such as air navigation, emissions offsets, and customer compensation compensation.

While each factor's logic may be justified, von Hoensbroech advocates for considering them collectively within a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the sector. Recently, soaring fuel prices have cost WestJet over $1 billion this year, leading airlines like Porter Airlines, Air Transat, and Flair Airlines to seek more than $630 million in emergency federal aid.

The Canadian airline industry has experienced consolidation over the past three years, with budget carrier Lynx Air shutting down, WestJet integrating its low-cost Swoop subsidiary into its mainline service, and acquiring Sunwing Airlines. This report by The Canadian Press was originally published on November 2, 2026.