Record May Traffic for Air Canada

Air Canada has reported a record load factor for the mainline of 83.8% in May 2007, the highest ever for the month. The mainline carrier flew 0.2% fewer revenue passenger miles (RPMs) in May 2007 than in May 2006, according to preliminary traffic figures.

Capacity decreased by 1%, resulting in a load factor of 83.8%, compared to 83.2% in May 2006; an increase of 0.6 percentage points.

Jazz, from which Air Canada purchases regional capacity, flew 19.8% more RPMs in May 2007 than in May 2006, according to preliminary traffic figures. Capacity increased by 16.9%, resulting in a load factor of 74.6%, compared to 72.8% in May 2006; an increase of 1.8 percentage points.

Year over year, system traffic on a consolidated basis for Air Canada and Jazz, rose 1.3% on a capacity increase of 0.6%, resulting in a load factor of 82.8%; an increase of 0.5 percentage points.

"Air Canada achieved a record load factor of 83.8% for the month of May. Traffic has remained strong, particularly in the domestic market where traffic was up 5% and our load factor up nearly 2% on a combined basis with Jazz. Our record load factor is also a testament to our disciplined approach to capacity growth in a buoyant travel market," said Montie Brewer, President and Chief Executive Officer.

"The ongoing deliveries of new and refurbished aircraft are enabling us to offer the latest amenities to our customers, who clearly like the new Air Canada. As well, our new revenue model, with à la carte pricing and multi-trip subscription flight pass products, makes it easy and affordable to fly with Air Canada."

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