Air Canada Introduces 4 Percent Commission for Canadian Agents

In a dramatic move to boost its competitive position, Air Canada said that effective immediately it will introduce a 4 percent commission for Canadian travel agents to sell Tango fares for all flights operated within Canada by Air Canada, Jazz and its commercial partners. Tickets eligible for the incentive must be sold through the airline's agency portal at www.aircanada.com/agents.

In addition, in recognition of the essential role the travel industry plays in the airline's distribution network, Air Canada has launched a Bonus Aeroplan Miles promotion available to new Aeroplan members enrolled by their travel agent through the airline's agency portal.

"With the introduction of commissions for Tango fares, Air Canada is rewarding the support of Canadian travel agents," said Ben Smith, Air Canada's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. "This is consistent with the direction of the new Air Canada team to re-engage our travel trade partners.”

“It is in partnership with Canada's travel trade community that we serve tens of thousands of customers every day, so it is important that each and every travel professional knows they will be rewarded for providing customers with the best value for their budget. As the market leader in
schedule, product offering and loyalty benefits through Aeroplan, Air Canada has just the ticket.” Smith said.

To celebrate Aeroplan's 25th Anniversary together with the airline's travel partners, new Aeroplan members enrolled by their travel agent from June 4 to July 31st will automatically receive 1,000 Aeroplan Bonus Miles, plus Double Aeroplan Miles for the first two flights if they travel before December 31, 2009.

“Air Canada has raised the bar among international network carriers with the introduction fleet wide of a brand new in-flight product featuring free personal seatback entertainment with hundreds of hours of movies and albums to choose from, as well as new seats and cabin amenities. As Canada's largest airline, we are proud to serve 58 communities across Canada, by far the most of any airline.” Smith said

“Air Canada also leads the market with a superior schedule, the option of Executive Class, award-winning Maple Leaf Lounges, a modern fleet with an average age of just nine years, and, together with our Star Alliance partners, offers the most comprehensive global network, with reciprocal Aeroplan benefits world wide. New customer service initiatives such as a two free checked bags policy, free call centre service, and access to more Aeroplan reward seats, underscore Air Canada's commitment to providing the Canadian travel industry with the leading competitive product to offer their customers, whether traveling within Canada or abroad,” Smith said.

Montréal-based Air Canada provides scheduled and charter air transportation for passengers and cargo to more than 170 destinations on five continents. Canada's flag carrier is the 13th largest commercial airline in the world and serves 33 million customers annually.

Visit www.aircanada.com