After one competitor fades, Canada's long-standing airlines behave rationally in the market

CAPA ANALYST PERSPECTIVE - a series where CAPA - Centre for Aviation's analyst team provide their personal views on a hot topic facing aviation around the world.

The demise of Lynx Air in Canada was hardly a shock to those familiar with the country's aviation history, which is rich with low cost airline failures. Lynx was a small-scale operator, with a fleet of nine Boeing 737-8s, when it ceased operations in late Feb-2024.

But the airline's exit could create opportunities for Canada's other airlines - if they behave in a rational manner.

Canada's three largest operators - Air Canada, WestJet and Porter Airlines - have co-existed for quite some time and know the market well. And each airline has a somewhat distinct strategy going forward that has promise in the market.

Lori Ranson, Senior Analyst, Americas at CAPA - Centre for Aviation shares her viewpoint.