Transport Canada evaluating a proposed update of the joint venture between Air Canada and United Airlines

OTTAWA, ON, Oct. 16, 2026 /CNW/ -- A strong and competitive air travel industry is essential for Canada's economic prosperity and to meet the travel needs of Canadians. The Government of Canada pays careful attention to the air sector and works to ensure arrangements are conducive to competition and in the public interest.

Air Canada and United Airlines have notified the Minister of Transport that they want to update their existing joint business arrangement, known commonly as a joint venture, for flights between Canada and the United States, under the Canada Transportation Act.

The two airlines have operated under this arrangement since 2022. It allows them to work together on certain Canada-U.S. routes by coordinating activities such as flight schedules, ticket prices, marketing, sales and revenue management.

As the new joint venture arrangement raises considerations to public interest, Transport Canada officials are examining the proposed arrangement through a public interest assessment. This assessment includes consultations to hear from Canadians, including air industry representatives, consumer organizations and other stakeholders. It examines the potential economic impacts for Canadians, challenges and effects on competition of the proposed transaction.

Canadians are encouraged to have their say on letstalktransportation.ca from now until November 15.

Quote

"By conducting a thorough public interest assessment of this amended joint venture, we're ensuring that any expanded cooperation between these carriers benefits Canadians and drives stronger economic growth--boosting connectivity, supporting good jobs, and opening new opportunities for businesses and travellers across Canada."

The Honourable Steven MacKinnon
Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons

Quick facts

• Since 2018, the Minister of Transport has the authority to review and authorize joint ventures between airlines.
• This process allows the Minister of Transport to authorize, authorize with conditions, or refuse a proposed joint venture that would be in the public interest by balancing those interests with impacts on competition.

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SOURCE Transport Canada - Ottawa

Contacts: Marie-Justine Torres: Press Secretary and Senior Communications Advisor, Office of the Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, 613-327-5918, [email protected]; Media relations, Transport Canada, Ottawa, 613-993-0055, [email protected]