Uncontrollable Disruption

Uncontrollable Disruptions

(Situations outside of NWAL’s control)

Below is a non-exhaustive list of the examples provided by the Canadian Transportation Agency which outline situations outside the air carrier’s control:

  • Meteorological conditions or natural disasters that make the safe operation of the aircraft impossible;
  • Instructions from air traffic control;
  • Airport operational issues;
  • Medical emergency;
  • Collison with wildlife;
  • Security threat;
  • Manufacturing defect that reduces the safety of passengers and that was identified by the manufacturer or a competent authority;
  • Labour disruption at the air carrier or essential service provider such as an airport or air navigation service provider;
  • Notice to airmen (as defined in the Canadian Aviation Regulations);
  • War or political instability;
  • Illegal acts,  or  sabotage;
  • Or, an instruction from an official of state, a law enforcement agency, or a person responsible for airport

NOTICE: A delay, cancellation or denial of boarding attributed to an earlier flight disruption is still considered outside the carriers control if all reasonable measures to mitigate the impact of the initial disruption were taken.

Our commitments to you:

Communication: Upon recognition of a flight disruption, NWAL will provide notice to all affected customers.

Subsequent updates will be provided every 30 minutes until the disruption is rectified.  In the case of a delay or cancellation, rectification will be attained through a newly established departure time or confirmation of alternative travel arrangements if available on NWAL routes. Information will be provided through the following means:

  • Audible announcements within the airport terminal
  • Visible announcement available upon request

Alternative travel arrangements

If your flight is delayed  for 3 hours or more, NWAL will provide alternative travel arrangement, if available, or a refund if desired.

If your flight is cancelled or you have been denied boarding, NWAL will provide confirmed travel arrangements to those affected on the next available flight. Alternatively, customers may choose to request a refund. 

It is important to form an understanding of the information listed above as it determines your rights and entitlements outlined by the Air Passenger Protection Regulations.