UK and Canada conclude open skies agreement

Canada is the latest country to reach an open skies agreement with the UK as it prepares to leave the European Union.

The latest agreement is one of a number already agreed by the UK's Department for Transport (DfT) with countries around the world. The United Kingdom is Canada's third largest two-way air travel market.

The arrangement will replace the existing EU aviation agreement with Canada as the UK continues to "cement global ties" in preparation for future global trading relationships outside of the EU.

Canada's minister of transport, Marc Garneau, said: "The UK is one of our largest air travel markets as well as a key trading partner and valued ally.

"I am pleased with the conclusion of this Open Skies-type agreement, which will ensure that air services continue uninterrupted when the UK is no longer covered by the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement.

"This agreement is an expression of our robust long-standing air transport relationship and it will continue to support tourism, trade and investment between Canada and the UK."

The news was also welcomed by Air Canada, with the airline's senior vice president, regional markets and government relations Ferio Pugliese saying: "The UK is Air Canada's largest single international market.

"This agreement is important as it provides our airline, and the 2m Air Canada customers we carry each year between the two countries, certainty that our operations will be uninterrupted by Brexit.

"We applaud both governments for their foresight in making advance preparations to ensure the stability of this vital market."