As wildfires approach Yellowknife, the capital of the Northwest Territories, local airlines are making adjustments to their schedules and fares. Residents are scrambling to book flights after an evacuation order was issued by the government. The order urges residents in the highest-risk areas to leave immediately and sets a deadline of 12 p.m. MT on Friday for others to evacuate.
With only one road leading out of Yellowknife, many people are turning to airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, and Canadian North for evacuation. While some individuals have complained about high prices on social media, the airlines have assured that they are not overcharging and are actively assisting residents.
Air Canada has added two extra flights to accommodate more passengers and is coordinating with authorities to determine the operational limitations due to the fires. They have also implemented a fare cap for non-stop flights out of Yellowknife to prevent price escalation.
WestJet has introduced flexible change and cancellation guidelines for guests traveling to Yellowknife between Thursday and August 22. They have scheduled additional recovery flights and larger aircraft for the route between Yellowknife and Calgary. The airline has also increased the number of pets allowed in the cabin and adjusted fare classes to avoid price increases.
Transport Minister Pablo Rodriguez has communicated with the CEOs of Air Canada and Canadian North to stress the unacceptability of price gouging during emergencies. Government officials expect airlines to support impacted communities by offering additional frequencies and other assistance.
Canadian North is actively conducting evacuation flights and has allowed pets on a leash in the cabin, as well as boarding without identification. They are offering flexibility in changes and cancellations for all affected routes at no cost. However, starting Friday, flights will be canceled as aircraft are reassigned to assist with other evacuation efforts.
Passengers affected by flight cancellations can request rebooking or a full refund through their original booking channel. The airline is experiencing a high call volume and has deployed emergency personnel to handle inquiries.
In conclusion, airlines are making efforts to facilitate the safe evacuation of residents from Yellowknife amidst the wildfires. They are implementing measures to prevent price escalation and provide flexibility for passengers. The government is actively monitoring the situation and expects airlines to assist in the evacuation efforts.
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