Canadian airline executives appear before parliamentary committee to defend carry-on bag fees [Video]

Canadian airline executives, in the hot seat over carry-on bag fees, say the federal government needs to reform this country’s aviation system if it wants travel to become more affordable.

The CEOs of Air Canada and WestJet appeared before a parliamentary committee Friday to answer questions about their recent decisions to introduce carry-on bag fees for travellers.

Air Transat and Porter Airlines also testified Friday before the standing committee on transport, infrastructure and communities.

The executives faced tough questions from parliamentarians, who summoned them to testify following Air Canada’s announcement earlier this month that customers paying a basic fare can only bring on a personal item and will have to check carry-on bags for a fee.

Air Canada’s move follows an earlier decision by WestJet to introduce an “UltraBasic” fare class that allows passengers to carry no more than a laptop bag or small backpack on board.

The developments are …