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General Principle: Airline passengers flying in or out of Canadian airports or on flights operated by air carriers based in Canada are entitled to a safe flight, with a high quality of service at affordable, predictable prices on a year round basis.
The current operation of Canadian airports, air carriers, and the air navigation system requires increased public oversight and fair, enforceable rules to protect passenger rights. There are numerous outstanding issues relating to safety, pricing and service quality which must be resolved in the public’s interest.
The safety of passengers will have priority in all areas of air carrier, airport, air navigation system and aviation regulatory decision making.
All parties making up the Canadian aviation system must comply with all applicable regulations. A review by federal authorities, with reporting to Parliament, should be conducted annually.
All airline companies and senior managers to publicly commit, and be accountable to an open and fair culture of safety
A public review and verification of safety procedures should be required for any merging or restructuring air carriers.
Passengers are entitled to complete and timely disclosure of all information dealing with safety standards and compliance with safety regulations.
In the event of an accident, passengers are entitled to rescue and fire-fighting services that are equal to, or better than, international standards, as well as shelter, first aid and other assistance, including compensation.
Passengers are entitled to complete, timely and full disclosure of all information that is material to their flight.
Passengers are entitled to comfortable seating, adequate space for emergency evacuation, and hygienic and humane conditions, including breathing fresh air, fresh drinking water, and clean and accessible toilet facilities.
General service standards include: courteous service; explanation of safety regulations; timely information on flight delays/problems; careful handling of baggage; protection by abuse/harassment by other passengers; no discrimination based on disability; prompt service by company representatives; consumer complaint representatives and process.
Passengers are entitled to protection against unwarranted and/or sudden price increases in regular fares, as well as price fixing and anti-competitive collusion. Regulation should be used to set prices in markets where market dominance or monopoly conditions exist.
Fares in these areas should be established as a percentage of average rates in urban Canada. Fare increases should not be greater than the country-wide average. Rates should be set through a public process. Under monopoly conditions, a contribution regime should be established to ensure that service is not degraded and pricing remains affordable.
A new regulatory framework should: