Lynx Air shuts down, says every effort being made to assist passengers

Lynx Air shuts down, says every effort being made to assist passengers | Insurance Business Canada

Travel

Lynx Air shuts down, says every effort being made to assist passengers

Transport Minister reacts

Travel

By
Terry Gangcuangco

Lynx Air has ceased to operate from 12:01am MT today.

The low-cost airline, prior to its February 26 shutdown, obtained an initial order for creditor protection from the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act.

In a release, the carrier said: “Over the past year, Lynx Air has faced a number of significant headwinds including rising operating costs, high fuel prices, exchange rates, increasing airport charges, and a difficult economic and regulatory environment.

“Operating as an ultra low-cost carrier, Lynx launched its inaugural flight in April 2022, growing its fleet and number of destinations while doubling its volume of passengers over the past two years. However, despite substantial growth in the business, ongoing operational improvements, cost reductions, and efforts to explore a sale or merger, the challenges facing the company’s business have become too significant to overcome.”

Lynx Air, meanwhile, took the opportunity to thank its previous customers, employees, and business partners. Assurances that “every effort is being made” to assist impacted passengers have also been offered.

“Passengers with existing bookings are advised to contact their credit card company to secure refunds for pre-booked travel,” Lynx Air went on to say. “Additional information for Lynx customers is available at this Frequently Asked Questions page.”

Canada’s Minister of Transport Pablo Rodriguez, meanwhile, revealed that his office has been in touch with Lynx Air.

My statement on Lynx Air: pic.twitter.com/U5SY0rqfW1

— Pablo Rodriguez (@pablorodriguez) February 23, 2024

The Canadian Transportation Agency, in a generic guidance on its website, has this to say on cessation of air operations: “If your air travel is affected by a carrier’s bankruptcy/cessation of activities, we suggest the following: contact your travel agent or transportation providers as soon as possible to make alternative arrangements; if you paid by credit card, contact the credit card company to see if you are eligible to be reimbursed or rebooked on another flight; if you purchased travel insurance, contact the insurance company to see if you are covered.”

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