On 02JAN, Cirium released its annual On-Time Performance Review, reporting on airline and airport efficiency worldwide.
"This year's 2023 On-Time Performance Review winners, hailing from every corner of the globe, have not only risen to the occasion but have set new benchmarks in operational performance and punctuality," the aviation analytics firm stated in a release.
Air Canada achieved an on-time performance of 63%, the worst score among North American airlines. WestJet secured the seventh position in North America with a score of 69%. A flight was considered late if it arrived 15 minutes or more beyond its scheduled time.
Delta Air Lines claimed the top spot among North America's 10 largest airlines with an 85% on-time performance, closely followed by Alaska Airlines at 82%.
In response to the report, a spokesperson for Air Canada told CBC News that the company's focus remains on "further raising" on-time performance in 2024.
Air Canada attributed its on-time performance ranking to the persistent challenges faced by Canadian carriers throughout 2023, including shortages of air traffic controllers, pilots, and baggage handlers. Adverse weather conditions and high demand also contributed to extended recovery periods following operational disruptions.
CEO Michael Rousseau emphasized the commitment to enhancing on-time performance, citing the 74.94% on-time mark for the airline's 29,824 November flights. Rousseau highlighted consistent improvements, showing a double-digit increase in monthly on-time performance compared to July.
Notably, none of the Canadian airports reached the top 20 airports globally or even the top 10 airports in their respective regions, which is attributed to the harsh winter weather in Canada, making it challenging for airlines to maintain their on-time performance in this part of the world.
As Open Jaw reported, Canadian airlines and airports have introduced several new measures to prepare for the upcoming winter season. These measures include increasing staff, utilizing advanced snowplows, employing real-time weather monitoring equipment, and implementing other digital tools for passengers.
