Alaa Tannous celebrated a decision by the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) ordering Air Canada to pay him $2,079 for delayed luggage after a 2022 flight from Toronto to Vancouver. “I felt it’s fair,” he said after waiting over two years for the ruling.
However, instead of receiving payment, Tannous was served court documents on Christmas Eve 2024. Air Canada is appealing the CTA’s decision in Federal Court, leaving Tannous to defend himself without the CTA named in the case.
“It was shocking,” said Tannous. “It’s disappointing to see the airline… appealing a $2,000 claim.”
This marks the fourth CTA ruling contested in court by airlines in 2024, two of which involve Air Canada. In another case, Andrew and Anna Dyczkowski of B.C. were awarded $2,000 for a flight delay, a ruling Air Canada is also challenging.
Consumer advocates argue the system needs reform. “It does have a chilling effect,” said Geoff White of the Public Interest Advocacy Centre, noting most passengers can’t afford litigation.
Tannous had spent $2,079 on essentials after the couple’s suitcase went missing. Although Air Canada initially offered $250 to settle, Tannous filed a CTA complaint. The airline claims the couple failed to justify their expenses and argues the luggage was delayed, not lost.
Despite the setback, Tannous stands firm, criticizing the system. “I believed in the system, which is my mistake. It has to be changed.”
Air Canada declined to comment on the case. The CTA, defending the current system, stated, “Anyone subject to a decision… can challenge that decision through review by the Courts.”
Advocates, however, propose reforms, including a built-in appeal route to bypass expensive court processes and clearer air passenger protection regulations.
Meanwhile, Tannous hopes public attention to his case will highlight the need for change.
Source: Swifteradio.com
