Air Canada has unexpectedly cancelled its non-stop service to Algiers, Algeria, its longest route to Africa by distance, amid rising fuel costs. This abrupt decision leaves the airline with just one remaining African route, to Casablanca, Morocco.
The suspension of the Algiers route resulted from a combination of factors, primarily soaring jet fuel prices exacerbated by the ongoing Iran conflict. Air Canada had planned to operate this seasonal service from Montreal four times weekly using two Airbus A330-300 aircraft, but escalating operational costs rendered it economically unviable.
Since launching the seasonal service in 2017, Air Canada has catered to a significant demand among the approximately 70,000 people of Algerian descent residing in Montreal. However, as the airline grapples with increasing expenses, it has decided to cut back on less profitable routes. In total, Air Canada has cancelled seven routes due to these financial pressures.
Key facts about the Algiers route cancellation:
- The Montreal-Algiers route was expected to operate four times a week.
- Air Algérie will continue its year-round operation of the same route.
- The decision reflects wider industry trends influenced by rising operational costs.
Officials have indicated that Air Canada plans to revisit the possibility of relaunching the Algiers route for the summer season in 2027. This potential resumption underscores the airline’s commitment to serving the Algerian market, which has been a valuable link between Quebec and Algeria.
The airline’s spokesperson noted that jet fuel prices have doubled since the start of the Iran conflict, making some lower-profit routes no longer economically viable. This shift highlights broader challenges facing airlines as they navigate fluctuating fuel costs while trying to maintain competitive pricing and service offerings.
