August 29, 2008
No. 188
The Honourable David Emerson, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today provided information for Canadians outside the country affected by the Zoom Airlines service cancellation.
"The cancellation of Zoom Airlines' services is unfortunate and has inconvenienced many travellers," said Minister Emerson. "As soon as we learned that the airline had ceased operations, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada sent information to our offices abroad concerning the implications for Canadian travellers."
DFAIT is working closely with the Canadian Transportation Agency to provide information for Canadians abroad who are affected by the flight cancellations.
"Historically, other air carriers or means of transportation have upgraded their schedules and routes to help out stranded passengers," said the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. "We advise Canadians stuck outside the country to contact their organizer, travel agent or other airlines to make alternative arrangements for their return."
Noting that Zoom cited increased fuel prices as one of the causes of their difficulties, Minister Cannon added that "additional burdens on the airline industry's fuel costs are undesirable."
People who have purchased a Zoom ticket for an upcoming trip through a registered travel agent should contact that agent to make other travel arrangements.
People who purchased their ticket using a credit card can contact the card-issuing company. Some credit card companies may be prepared to cancel the charges.
For additional information and advice, please visit the website of the Canadian Transportation Agency at www.cta-otc.gc.ca/air-aerien/licensing/zoom_e.html.
Consular officers posted at Canada's offices abroad remain available to assist Canadians experiencing difficulties.
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Lynn Meahan
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
613-995-1851
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
www.international.gc.ca/index.aspx
