9/05/2000: CanJet Begins Low-Cost Operations

Today, in 2000, Halifax-based CanJet (C6) began low-cost scheduled operations across central and eastern Canada.

The carrier launched with up to three daily frequencies between Toronto, Ottawa, and Halifax, plus two between Toronto and Windsor, according to Transport Canada's 2000 annual report. Winnipeg, Montreal, and St. John's joined the network later that month. By year-end, CanJet was flying more than 250 weekly services with six 120-seat Boeing 737-200s.

Acquisition and Relaunch

The original operation lasted less than a year. Canada 3000 completed its acquisition of CanJet from IMP Group on May 1, 2001. The transaction included the carrier's aircraft, airport slots, and other assets.

IMP revived the CanJet name the following year. On June 6, 2002, the airline said it planned to relaunch on June 20, pending regulatory approval. The plan called for Toronto-Halifax-St. John's service first, followed by Ottawa, Montreal, and Moncton as the fleet grew to four 120-seat Boeing 737s by July 4.

From Scheduled Flights to Charters

In September 2006, six years after the first launch, CanJet stopped scheduled service and shifted to charter work. Transport Canada recorded that the carrier served sun destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico during the 2006-2007 winter season.

The charter strategy later included a five-year agreement with Transat Tours Canada effective May 1, 2009. The agreement allowed the tour operator to charter CanJet Boeing 737-800s from 20 Canadian cities to approximately 20 sun destinations.

CanJet suspended flight operations on September 1, 2015 with one passenger jet remaining. President Stephen Rowe said the company was not shutting down and was still looking for a viable business plan. CAPA records the same date as the end of CanJet's operations.

Featured image: CanJet Boeing 737-800 C-FTCX.