Lynx Air announced Thursday that the company is to cease operations on Monday and has obtained creditor protection. (Lynx Air/CBC News)
Lynx Air, a low-cost airline based in Calgary, announced an abrupt cessation of its operations starting Monday, instructing customers with future bookings to seek refunds through their credit card companies.
The airline revealed in a news release sent Thursday evening that it had secured an initial order from the Alberta Court of King's Bench for creditor protection.
Although the exact number of affected customers was not disclosed, the shutdown is scheduled to commence at 12:01 a.m. MT on Monday. Lynx Air directed passengers to a section on its website dedicated to frequently asked questions, assuring that the majority of its flights would continue as planned through the weekend.
Those whose flights are cancelled will receive a notification via email, with the airline noting that travel and flight vouchers will no longer be valid after operations cease.
In its release, the airline cited a series of challenges over the past year, including escalating costs, high fuel prices, fluctuating exchange rates, rising airport charges, and a challenging economic and regulatory landscape. Despite efforts to enhance operations, reduce costs, and explore options for sale or merger, Lynx Air stated that the obstacles facing its business had become insurmountable.
A spokesperson for Lynx expressed sorrow over the situation, acknowledging the hardship it poses for both company employees and customers. Canada's Transport Minister, Pablo Rodriguez, expressed sympathy for those affected by the announcement, emphasizing the government's expectation for Lynx to facilitate the return of travelers and provide full refunds for fares that won't be honored.
Lynx Air's fleet comprises nine Boeing 737 Max 8s, serving 23 destinations, including major Canadian cities and various U.S. locations. Notably, Lynx Air counts Stephen Bronfman's Claridge Inc. and Bill Franke's Indigo Partners among its investors, with the latter being known for its investments in no-frills airlines like Wizz Air and Frontier Airlines. The departure of Lynx's CEO was announced in June last year, with no successor named to date.
