A member of parliament said that Ottawa may have underestimated Canadians' desire to travel when planning the return to normalcy after ending most pandemic restrictions. Accordingly, airlines and airports are struggling with the increased number of customers this summer, exacerbated by a staff shortage affecting both carriers and federal agencies, leading travelers to suffer from widespread flight cancellations, baggage delays, and long lines, especially at Toronto Pearson International Airport.

Annie Koutrakis, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport, told reporters in Calgary on Tuesday that the planning for returning to normal was somewhat insufficient, stating: "The data shows we did not anticipate everyone starting to travel in such numbers. It's not as if we were waiting and not planning behind the scenes to be ready for this, but more could have been done." She added that this is the first time the government is going through a pandemic and lessons can be learned.

On the other hand, Transport Minister Omar Alghabra was questioned about delays in a Commons committee meeting last week. Conservative MP Melissa Lantsman asked him whether the federal government bears any responsibility, to which Alghabra responded: "I blame COVID," and pointed out that labor shortages are the main contributor to the delays.

A statement issued by Alghabra's office said the government understands that airport delays are frustrating for travelers, and that he has met with airlines, airports, and the public to address concerns, as well as making progress with the reduction of cancellations.

Koutrakis had announced nearly 2 million dollars in funding to help Calgary International Airport improve scheduling of current and future flights and connection times between flights, as well as creating dedicated lanes to enable physical distancing. However, Bob Sartor, President and CEO of Calgary Airport Authority, said airlines are struggling with the same staffing issues.