The acquisition of the airline Sunwing by WestJet is not necessarily viewed favorably by Transport Canada, which intends to conduct a public interest assessment.

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"The Minister of Transport has determined that the transaction raises questions of public interest in matters of national transport," said a statement sent on Friday.

The evaluation will therefore be conducted in partnership with the Commissioner of Competition to assess the impact on the offer to Canadians and other air carriers. Consultations on the subject will also take place with stakeholders in the air transport industry.

“An analysis of the economic benefits as well as the challenges caused by the proposed transaction will also be carried out,” it was specified.

Transport Canada has until December 5 to submit its investigation report to its Minister, Omar Alghabra, who will then provide his recommendations.

The ministry had been notified of the transaction on April 8, nearly a month after the public announcement of the takeover wish.

The conclusion of the transaction between the two companies is normally expected for the end of 2022, once the regulatory authorizations have been obtained.