Air Canada Rouge
Air Canada Rouge is the leisure subsidiary of Air Canada, Canada's largest airline. Launched in 2013, this low-cost carrier was established to handle flights to leisure destinations, thereby allowing Air Canada to focus on its premium, long-haul, and business routes.
History and Development
Operational Details
- Hubs: The primary hubs for Air Canada Rouge are Toronto Pearson International Airport and Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport.
- Fleet: As of recent updates, Air Canada Rouge operates a fleet consisting of Airbus A319, A320, A321, and Boeing 767-300ER aircraft.
- Services: The airline offers a two-class cabin configuration with Premium Rouge (business class) and Economy services. However, it focuses on cost reduction through practices like offering buy-on-board food and beverage services, charging for baggage, and having a more basic onboard service offering compared to the mainline carrier.
Market Position
Air Canada Rouge serves a niche by catering to vacationers and travelers looking for budget-friendly fares. This approach allows Air Canada to maintain competitive pricing on routes that might not be as profitable for the mainline operation, particularly during peak seasons or to sun destinations.
Controversies and Challenges
- Employee Relations: There have been instances of labor disputes, especially with cabin crew over pay and working conditions, reflecting the challenges of operating a low-cost model within a traditionally unionized environment.
- Customer Feedback: Like many low-cost carriers, Air Canada Rouge has received mixed customer reviews, often concerning the reduction in amenities and services compared to the mainline carrier.
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