Heightened Political Tensions Pose Risks of Slump for India-Canada Air Travel Market

The political tensions between India and Canada are affecting air travel between the two countries. According to Ravreet Singh, an aviation analyst, the strained relationship and Canada’s strict immigration policies have led to a decline in travel demand, particularly from Punjab. This has resulted in lower airfare prices, with routes like Delhi-Toronto averaging $775 and Delhi-Vancouver averaging $660. Despite this, both Air India and Air Canada have increased their flights to Canada, with Air India operating 21 weekly non-stop flights from Delhi and Air Canada operating daily services from Toronto and Montreal. However, the decline in demand from Punjab and emerging competitive dynamics may challenge market stability. Air India may consider suspending its second daily Delhi-Toronto service or optimizing its aircraft fleet to adapt to the changing market conditions. The article also mentions the introduction of heightened security measures by Transport Canada for passengers traveling from Canada to India, which may cause delays and extended security wait times.