Originally Posted by
Daxiuyi
....
Now, using EK as another example, their well-documented problems getting access to Canada is clear evidence of the government protecting AC. And that's not on; it ties in with their strategy/business model (long-haul flights, transiting through DXB, glamorous service at reasonable prices), and there's no reason why they shouldn't have access to Canadian airports.
....
Also well documented was that when Canada rejected EK, the UAE cancelled the facility for Canadians to get a visa on arrival and substituted by a 15 day advance requirement with no refund if the visa was rejected. The $1000 visa fee caused disappointment, so did the forced closure of the Canadian military facility near Dubai (supporting Canadians in Afghanistan). All because EK didn't get what they wanted in Canada. Perhaps the government and the airline were too close.