Airports Across Canada Demand Millions in Unpaid Fees from Defunct Lynx Air
Several airports across Canada are demanding millions of dollars in unpaid fees from the now-defunct airline, Lynx Air. The airline, which ceased operations in 2019, owes a total of $16 million to 21 airports across the country.
According to documents obtained by CTV News, the largest amount is owed to the Calgary International Airport, with a total of $4.3 million in unpaid fees. This is followed by the Edmonton International Airport, which is owed $2.7 million, and the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, which is owed $1.8 million.
The fees in question include landing fees, terminal fees, and rent for office and hangar space. These fees are crucial for airports to maintain their operations and infrastructure, and the unpaid amounts have put a strain on their finances.
In a statement to CTV News, the Calgary Airport Authority expressed their disappointment in Lynx Air’s failure to pay their fees, stating that it has had a significant impact on their operations. They also mentioned that they have been working with other airports to find a solution to this issue.
The Winnipeg Airports Authority also released a statement, saying that they have been in discussions with Lynx Air’s parent company, Enerjet, to resolve the outstanding fees. However, they have not received any payments to date.
Lynx Air, which was a subsidiary of Enerjet, operated flights to several destinations in Canada, including Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Ottawa. The airline ceased operations in 2019, citing financial difficulties.
In response to the airports’ demands, Enerjet stated that they are working to resolve the issue and are committed to paying the outstanding fees. They also mentioned that they have been in discussions with the airports and are hopeful for a positive outcome.
The airports have stated that they are willing to work with Enerjet to find a solution, but they also have a responsibility to their stakeholders to collect the unpaid fees. They have not ruled out taking legal action if necessary.
This situation serves as a reminder of the financial challenges faced by the aviation industry, especially during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As airlines struggle to stay afloat, it is crucial for them to fulfill their financial obligations to airports and other stakeholders.
In the meantime, airports across Canada continue to demand the unpaid fees from Lynx Air, hoping for a resolution to this issue in the near future.