Canada extends ban on direct flights from India for fifth time in a row

Canada has, for the fifth time now, extended its ban on direct commercial and private flights from India until at least September 21 amid concerns over the Delta variant of the Covid-19 virus.

The ban was first imposed on April 22 due to fears in Canada over the devastating second wave of the pandemic in India.

Transport Canada said the decision on travel from India was based on the latest advice from the Public Health Agency. It said Canada will be working closely with the government of India and aviation operators to ensure appropriate procedures are put in place to enable a safe return of direct flights as soon as conditions permit.

The latest extension of the ban was announced even as entry for fully vaccinated US citizens and permanent residents to Canada was relaxed on Monday, despite America currently recording over 100,000 new daily coronavirus cases.