As part of a broader restructuring of its regional network, Air Canada has confirmed it will halt all operations at Jack Garland Airport in early 2026—a move met with backlash from local officials
Local officials are speaking out after Air Canada announced it will suspend all operations in North Bay starting January 30, 2026.
The airline made the announcement this morning, citing “commercial viability reasons” for its decision to end service at Jack Garland Airport.
See: Air Canada pulling out of North Bay in 2026
Air Canada also plans to suspend flights to Bathurst, New Brunswick, as part of a wider adjustment to its network. At the same time, it is adding flights to other areas, including Ottawa to Fredericton and Moncton, and increasing service between Toronto and Sudbury.
“We are devastated by the airline’s decision, especially given the exceptionally long-standing relationship between our community, airport and Air Canada,” said Bryan Avery, Airport Manager, NBJGAC, in a release. “Air Canada has consistently played a vital role in connecting North Bay to Toronto and beyond, and their decision will have a negative impact to our community and travellers alike.
“It is unfortunate that Air Canada no longer has the ability to provide meaningful air service to regions they previously served across Canada, operating increasingly larger aircraft with less frequency across their network. Today’s announcement reinforces the importance and need for collaborative initiatives that support regional air connectivity across Canada. Through collective efforts, especially by the Government of Canada, essential regional air connectivity can be protected and rebuilt. Initiatives such as ACOA’s regional connectivity fund in Atlantic Canada have impactful positive results, and an expansion of such programs, as well as a uniform approach nationally, would immediately support regional air connectivity and the air carriers who are able to provide service on such routes.”
The release says Air Canada will continue to operate flights between now and January 30, 2026. Passengers with existing reservations or inquiries are asked to contact Air Canada for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
“We are committed to the airlines and businesses that continue to operate every day at YYB, connecting travellers, shipping freight, supporting emergency response, conducting flight training, facilitating medical transportation, and much more. We remain optimistic about the future of air service and the aerospace industry in North Bay,” added Avery. “We need a national strategy and government investment to ensure that all communities continue to have regional service and the opportunities it enables for growth across all sectors.”
North Bay Mayor Peter Chirico says the decision will hurt the community.
“The City of North Bay is deeply disappointed by Air Canada’s decision to suspend service at Jack Garland Airport at the end of January. This change will have a real impact on our residents, businesses, and visitors who rely on reliable air connections,” Chirico said in a statement.
“Air service is essential for regional transportation, economic development, and tourism. The loss of this service weakens this region’s connectivity and competitiveness.”
Chirico says the City will continue to support existing air services and the hundreds of aviation employees, while advocating for restored service and seeking new partnerships to maintain North Bay’s air links.
“For years, our community has supported Air Canada, and we expected more from our national carrier,” he added.
Air Canada had already announced earlier this month that it would reduce North Bay flights starting in November. Flights are to run four times a week—on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
See: Air Canada scaling back flights to North Bay
Avery confirmed the reduced flight schedule on Sept. 10.
“I can confirm that Air Canada has informed us of their winter season schedule, which has changes to operate flights four times per week,” Avery previously stated.
Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli also expressed concern about the upcoming suspended operations.
“This is a disappointing decision not only for Nipissing residents, but also for Air Canada workers whose employment depended on the flights in and out of North Bay,” said Fedeli.
“We are hopeful that another service provider will step up and fill the significant gap that Air Canada has left Northern Ontario residents with. At the same time, our government is going to do everything to ensure Northern Ontario families and workers have access to the transportation services they need—starting with the restoration of the Northlander passenger rail service.”
Federal Member of Parliament for Nipissing–Timiskaming, Pauline Rochefort, said her office is committed to working with local partners to restore air service.
“Make no mistake, this is a united front when it comes to restoring North Bay’s regional air service by Air Canada. It’s not the first time Air Canada has made similar decisions—in fact, it has been a common trend over the past seven years. North Bay deserves better!” she said.
“In concert with Jack Garland Airport and the City of North Bay, as the federal representative for this riding, my team will explore all avenues of advocacy to support the aviation and tourism industries in North Bay affected by this suspension of service.”
Donna Backer, North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer, says this is another blow to regional airport service and the business community.
The North Bay & District Chamber of Commerce is very disappointed with Air Canada’s decision to pull out their operations for North Bay,” she stated. “We will be working with stakeholders at all levels to advocate for reliable air service for our region.”
Bearskin Airlines, which currently serves northern Ontario, is expected to increase service to North Bay and Sault Ste. Marie, Avery said.
