Let Canadians Judge Air Canada’s Progress

September 14, 2000 For Immediate Release

Today Jay Hill, Official Opposition Transportation Critic, stated he believes that on the final day of Air Canada’s 180-day commitment to improve customer satisfaction, it’s CEO, Robert Milton, should address the Standing Committee on Transportation to report progress.

"In a monopoly situation, the consumer is stuck on the losing end. Canadians are upset with the current state of the airline industry. As a Member of Parliament I have been receiving numerous complaints from constituents and others at their wits end with the current state of the airline industry in Canada. The complaints range from lost luggage to lost reservations and everything in between. The best way to test Air Canada’s results is to see how they resolve the complaints of Canadians," stated Hill

On August 3, 2000 Air Canada’s CEO, Robert Milton, made a pledge to Canadians to rectify the problems experienced as a result of the merger of Air Canada and Canadian Airlines. These problems include flight scheduling, computer programming, employment levels, Pearson Airport, pricing and frequent flyer benefits.

"Canadians deserve to be heard on this issue. No one, including Air Canada, said that the amalgamation process would be smooth or easy. At the end of this 180—day period of change, Air Canada may be happy with their results however, the travelling public may disagree and should have the final word through their elected representatives. I believe that Air Canada has a duty to bring their findings to the Canadian people and that the Standing Committee on Transportation should be the forum of discussion," concluded Hill.