Canadian air passenger traffic to U.S. down for 9th straight month amid trade war

Canadian air passenger traffic trend

For the ninth month in a row, passenger numbers from Canadian airports to the United States have declined. This ongoing drop is closely linked to escalating trade tensions between the two countries and a generally weaker Canadian dollar.

Impact of the trade war on travel

The trade war has made many Canadians more cautious about visiting the U.S., which has reduced demand for cross‑border flights. Airlines have responded by trimming capacity and adjusting schedules on Canada–U.S. routes to match lower booking levels.

Airline responses and route changes

Major Canadian carriers, including Air Canada and WestJet, have cut or reduced routes to several large U.S. cities. Some airlines are reallocating aircraft to more promising markets such as Europe, Mexico, and the Caribbean, where demand remains comparatively strong.

Traveler sentiment and border concerns

Stricter U.S. border enforcement and high‑profile detention incidents have added to Canadians’ reluctance to fly south. Political rhetoric and uncertainty around future tariffs further discourage both leisure and business trips from Canada to the United States.

Political backdrop

The deterioration in air traffic is occurring against a backdrop of rising diplomatic friction between Ottawa and Washington. Public statements from political leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, have intensified perceptions of tension and contributed to a chill in cross‑border travel.

For the ninth consecutive month, fewer passengers at Canadian airports are heading to the United States amid the trade war.

Author’s summary

Canadian–U.S. air travel is slipping month after month as tariffs, a weak Canadian dollar, stricter border rules and sharper political rhetoric push airlines to cut routes and travelers to rethink trips.

Global News — 2025-12-01