In December 2011, the Government of Canada announced that the Canadian Transportation Agency would develop regulations requiring all-inclusive air price advertising. These regulations are now published on Part II of the Canada Gazette.The regulations support two key objectives: Enable consumers to easily determine the total advertised air price.The display of the total price in air price advertising reduces confusion and frustration as to the total price and increases transparency. It also allows consumers to more easily compare prices and make informed choices.Promote fair competition between all advertisers in the air travel industry.The regulations promote competition by achieving a level playing field for all persons who advertise air prices for travel within, or originating in Canada. The regulations apply to any person who advertises air prices to the public, for travel within, or originating in Canada, through any media. Advertising is considered to be a communication of the air price to the public, for travel within, or originating in Canada, and through either interactive or non-interactive media.Air price advertising directed at the public must include: The total price, inclusive of all taxes, fees and charges which a consumer must pay to obtain the air service. A minimum level of description of the air service offered, including:the points of origin and destination;whether the service is one way or round trip; andlimitations with respect to booking or travel availability periods.Access to a breakdown of the taxes, fees and charges and any optional services offered for a fee or charge.Source: CTA news release 2012-12-18
