Canada Jetlines pushes back launch date

Canada Jetlines was forced to push back its launch date indefinitely, as the lessor from which the airline previously secured aircraft -- under an LOI -- was unable to provide a definitive delivery date. The current market for leased aircraft has tightened during 2017 and early 2018 due to neo engine manufacturing issues, increased demand for B737-800s freighter conversions, and world-wide traffic demand. Such factors have led to increased demand and decreased supply of used aircraft available for lease.

Jetlines is currently in advanced talks with several major lessors to secure the aircraft for its start-up and growth plans. However, the carrier will not meet its planned June 2018 start-up date as a result. When definitive aircraft delivery dates are secured, the carrier will provide new guidance to the market, with an update announcement expected in 2Q 2018.

In the interim Jetlines will continue with personnel recruitment, airport agreements, the licensing process, and the financing plan.