Air Canada recently faced challenges at Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) due to harsh winter weather conditions in eastern Canada and the tragic Delta Air Lines DL4819 crash. In a recent operational update on February 18, 2025, Air Canada's Executive Vice President and COO, Craig Landry, emphasized the airline's priority of safety amidst such trying circumstances: “We recognize that travel disruptions are inconvenient for customers, but safety must always be our top priority."

Acknowledging the inconvenience caused to travelers, Landry commended the hard work and dedication of Air Canada employees, who put in extra hours to ensure customer care during this period. The airline had to cancel approximately 1,290 flights in the past six days but successfully transported over 650,000 passengers amid operational challenges.

As Air Canada navigates the aftermath of the storm and the need for increased caution, Landry explained, “We are currently restoring our service, adding extra flights and capacity where possible. However, the necessary reductions in take-offs and landings at our global hub in Toronto are impeding the pace of recovery." The airline anticipates that it may take several more days to return to normal operations depending on the prevailing weather conditions.

In preparation for the weather disruptions, Air Canada had already adjusted its flight schedule to account for limited operations at major airports across the country. Toronto Pearson Airport, for instance, witnessed a significant reduction in the number of flights due to safety protocols surrounding snow and ice removal. The impact is notable as almost half of Air Canada’s flights and passengers usually pass through Toronto Pearson daily, with potential disruptions affecting flights at other locations.

Facing operational challenges is not new to airlines, and Air Canada's response to the recent incidents underscores the industry's commitment to passenger safety amidst unforeseen circumstances.