CANADA and Saudi Arabia have entered into an agreement whereby they will ease rules on routes and pricing in each other countries in a new expanded air transport accord.

The amended agreement, which includes new dedicated cargo rights and an open code-share network, is wider than earlier air service accords.

"This expanded air transport agreement will facilitate the movement of people and goods and will provide new business opportunities for Canada's air industry," said Canadian Transport Minister Denis Lebel.

Said Canadian International Trade Minister Ed Fast: "An expanded air transport agreement with Saudi Arabia supports Canada's trade objectives and helps overall efforts to strengthen economic ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council region as a whole."

The new agreement is part of Canada's Blue Sky programme, which has focused on generating air transport agreements with other countries. Canada has such agreements with some 70 countries.

From:Shipping Gazette