Liberalized Air Agreement with Europe a Boost for Canadian Competitiveness

London International Airport commends the Government of Canada for the successful negotiation of a liberalized air service agreement with the European Union. The agreement, which contains achievable incremental targets to full Open Skies, enhances SouthWestern Ontario’s access to the global market. “This agreement will provide the opportunity to market direct scheduled air services in an Open Skies environment with the European Union” “Flights that have traditionally operated to central International Airports such as Toronto under restricted international air treaty rights can now fly directly to our community”, said Steve Baker, President & CEO of the London International Airport. “Liberalized air service agreements have proven themselves to increase opportunities for trade and tourism, while promoting greater competition in the market and more choices for consumers.” “London International Airport as the hub of Air Transportation in Southwestern Ontario is well positioned to recognize opportunities for new International direct air service and the economic benefits that result.” The new agreement replaces a patchwork of bilateral agreements Canada had with 19 of the 27 EU member states and by their nature precluded non-stop access to London. The agreement permits any carrier to eventually operate direct service between communities in Canada and the EU without restriction. More than half of Canada’s overseas tourists hail from Europe. The EU also is Canada’s second biggest trading partner after the U.S., with some $84.2 billion in imports/exports. According to a study from the European Commission, the number of passengers between the EU and Canada under Open Skies will increase from eight million now to 14 million by 2011. In addition, the European Commission estimated that an Open Aviation Area will generate consumer benefits of at least $110 million through lower fares and could create 3,700 jobs in the first year. For more information: Contact: Steve Baker President & CEO London International Airport 519-452-4042