Maple News reports that Canada has extended its ban on all direct commercial and passenger flights from India and Pakistan for another 30 days, now in effect until June 21, 2021. This move comes as part of ongoing efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 variants, particularly the B.1.617 strain first identified in India.
The initial temporary travel measure was introduced on April 22 and was originally set to expire on May 22. With the situation still under close watch and the threat from variants remaining high, the Canadian government deemed continuation necessary.
Transport Minister Omar Alghabra confirmed the extension during a pandemic briefing on May 21. He pointed out that the restrictions have helped reduce the number of positive COVID-19 cases arriving in the country via international air travel.
While direct commercial flights remain suspended, cargo flights delivering essential goods such as vaccines and personal protective equipment (PPE) are still permitted. Moreover, Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible travelers have the option to reach Canada from India or Pakistan through indirect routes. These travelers must, however, take a COVID-19 test at their last point of departure before boarding a connecting flight to Canada.
Air Canada, anticipating the federal government’s move, had already voluntarily suspended flights to India. The airline currently has no direct service to Pakistan.
Deputy Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Howard Njoo emphasized that around 70% of all recent COVID-19 cases in Canada involve variants of concern. “Although the importation of variants represents only a fraction of cases, every layer of protection we can add remains critical,” said Dr. Njoo.
Data from the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) revealed that between February 22 and May 6, at least 279 passengers tested positive for the B.1.617 variant after arriving in Canada. While imported cases are being monitored, officials have not ruled out the possibility of localized community transmission.
Canada’s border policies and public health measures continue to evolve with the aim of safeguarding public health while managing international mobility. These measures are especially vital as Canada works to combat the third wave of the pandemic and rapidly increase its vaccination coverage.