An airline filing for bankruptcy could impact your upcoming Walt Disney World vacation.
Disney World is feeling the consequences of the airline’s bankruptcy
While some airlines are benefiting from the continued rise in demand for post-pandemic travel, others are grappling with significant challenges such as rising fuel costs, disruptions in the aircraft supply chain and a limited customer base, particularly among regional carriers. In 2024, several airlines, including Air Malta, Armenia’s FlyArna, Canada’s Lynx Air and Antigua and Barbuda’s LIAT, either filed for bankruptcy protection or ceased operations altogether. Air Vanuatu abruptly cancelled all flights in the South Pacific in May, stranding numerous tourists and locals.
Canada Jetlines, based in Mississauga, Ontario, went through a lengthy process of fundraising and regulatory approvals before it could launch its first flight in September 2022. Despite its initial ambitions to serve Canadian travelers to the United States and the Caribbean, the airline needed help maintaining operations. On August 15, Canada Jetlines announced that it was suspending all flights due to its inability to raise sufficient capital after previously exploring various financial strategies, including debt and equity financing and strategic transactions.
The airline’s future now depends on a possible last-minute investment or drastic changes. The company is seeking creditor protection in hopes of resuming operations. “The company has exhausted all available financing alternatives, including strategic transactions and equity and debt financing,” spokeswoman Erica Dymond said in a statement. “Despite these efforts, the company has unfortunately been unable to obtain the financing necessary to continue operations.”
The airline, which needed more money for direct refunds, advised passengers to contact their credit card companies whose flights were canceled. The affected routes included connections between Toronto and popular destinations such as Montego Bay in Jamaica, Cancun in Mexico and Orlando in Florida. Similarly, Lynx Air, another Canadian low-cost carrier, filed for bankruptcy in February 2024, citing high operating and fuel costs and strong competition from industry giants Air Canada and WestJet Airlines.
Canada’s 38.9 million residents often rely on U.S. airlines such as United Airlines and Delta for flights to destinations like Florida. “When a new player enters the market, one thing is certain: they will lose money for the first eight to 10 months, possibly even longer,” said Jacques Roy, a professor of transportation management at HEC Montreal, in an interview with Global News. “A solid financial base is crucial.”
Recent turmoil in the aviation industry, marked by multiple airline closures and financial difficulties, could have a significant impact on travelers planning a visit to Walt Disney World Resort. With airlines such as Canada Jetlines and Lynx Air ceasing operations, many guests, especially from Canada, may need help booking flights to Orlando, a major gateway to the popular resort.
Guests planning a trip to Walt Disney World should proactively review their travel arrangements, especially if they booked with one of the affected airlines. Those with canceled flights are advised to contact their credit card companies about possible refunds, as the airlines themselves may not be able to provide refunds due to their financial situation. Additionally, travelers may need to consider alternative airlines such as United Airlines or Delta, which still offer flights to Orlando.
To avoid potential disruptions, guests should book flights as early as possible and monitor any travel advisories or updates from airlines. Flexibility in travel dates and times could also provide more opportunities to find alternative flights. For those affected by the sudden changes, it may be necessary to reschedule or adjust their vacation plans to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Walt Disney World Resort.
Despite the recent flight disruptions affecting some Walt Disney World guests, good planning can help ensure that upcoming vacations go on schedule. By securing alternate flights early, following travel updates, and being flexible with travel dates, guests can navigate the changes without significantly impacting their plans. While the airline situation may be a concern at first, those who proactively adjust their travel arrangements should still be able to enjoy their Disney vacation without major disruptions.
