Photo courtesy of NewLeaf Travel Company

Turning over a new leaf isn’t always easy. Bad pun aside, NewLeaf Travel hasn’t had the easiest of times getting off the ground in Canada.

The company, which works in partnership with Flair Airlines offer low-cost airfare throughout Canada. hasn’t had the easiest of starts. Although it planned a February launch, issues over what type of aviation license the company needs to hold delayed the launch until July of this year.

Then the travel company has been plagued by lawsuits. First Global News broke a story that the airline owed a marketing consultant more than $75,000 in fees, and that the consultant was suing the travel company for said fees. Then consumer advocate Gabor Lukacs filed an injunction to immediately shut down the company, unless they could post a $3.74 million security bond. In response, NewLeaf reportedly filed a suit against Lukacs, claiming defamation.

Despite its turbulent beginnings, NewLeaf Travel Company is getting ready for what it calls “Chapter 2” of its story, which includes an increased flight schedule for the fall season. NewLeaf service, using Flair Airlines aircraft, will increase at a number of gateway airports, including Abbotsford, B.C.; Hamilton, Ont.; Edmonton, Alta; Moncton, N.B.; and Winnipeg, Man.

The demand for ultra-low-cost carrier travel in Canada is evident,” said Jim Young, president and CEO, NewLeaf Travel Company. “After the first few weeks of travel, hundreds of Canadian families have decided to let NewLeaf be a part of their travel stories as they visit friends, explore the country, and reunite with family. Many also are experiencing flying for the first time.”

NewLeaf’s summer schedule included 60 flights per week to 11 Canadian cities; a number that will increase to 75 flights per week for the fall season, which begins October 3, 2016.

“The fall season offers even more opportunity for those last minute vacations and quick getaways,” said Young. “We want to continue to be a part of those stories.”

NewLeaf has also indicated that it is in the process of hiring new staff and crewmembers. The travel company has also said that it is already starting to plan its flight schedule for the holiday season. All flights booked through NewLeaf are operated by Flair Air, a licensed Canadian airline.

For more information, visit www.GoNewLeaf.ca.

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