MONTREAL, Oct. 25, 2011 /CNW Telbec/ - Air Canada today provided the following comments following the U.S. Government's decision to apply an additional $5.50 customs fee on travelers arriving in the United States by air from Canada:

Air Canada is disappointed to see an additional government fee levied on air travelers. This decision by the U.S. government comes at a time when initiatives should be undertaken to encourage economic growth, not burden consumers with additional costs.  Moreover, there is no indication that the monies raised from these additional fees will be used where they are sorely needed - to make the necessary investments in U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) pre-clearance resources at Canadian airports in order to better meet demand for U.S.-bound travelers.  Air Canada urges the U.S. government to address staffing shortages at these U.S. pre-clearance facilities, consistent with the objective of improving the flow of passengers and goods between Canada and the United States as both governments have committed to do.

Air Canada is Canada's largest domestic and international full-service airline providing scheduled and charter air transportation for passengers and cargo to more than 175 destinations on five continents.  Canada's flag carrier is the 15th largest commercial airline in the world and serves over 32 million customers annually. Air Canada provides scheduled passenger service directly to 60 Canadian cities, 57 destinations in the United States and 60 cities in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, the Caribbean, Mexico and South America. Air Canada is a founding member of Star Alliance, the world's most comprehensive air transportation network serving 1,185 destinations in 185 countries.  Air Canada customers can collect Aeroplan miles for future rewards through Canada's leading loyalty program, and Top Tier members enjoy reciprocal frequent flyer benefits including lounge and priority services.  For more information on Air Canada visit aircanada.com and follow @AirCanada on Twitter and Facebook.