The decision comes after the UAE failed to convince Canadian
authorities to allow its two major airlines to increase flights to Canada.
"Canada kept giving excuses and playing for time,"
said the source, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Dubai carrier Emirates has been lobbying the Canadian
government to boost its thrice-weekly direct flights to Toronto and more
Canadian destinations. Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, also wants to
increase flights.
Canadian carriers worry the UAE airlines would steal away
connecting passengers that make their routes profitable and have lobbied the
government to resist.
The UAE source said the agreement allowing Canada to use the
airbase had expired in June. It was extended to September at Canada's request.
"In the spirit of good will, the UAE went ahead and
gave them the extension. The MoU has now expired and that is that."
Other coalition forces in Afghanistan, including Australia,
also use the airbase.
"Australia (bound) flights for example have gone up
from 30 flights a week just a few years back to 100 flights a week today,"
the source said.
"Obviously, you don't expect the UAE to extend the same
facilities to Canada as it does to Australia," he added. "We have growing
and improving relations with one while the other is playing for time."
Earlier on Sunday, state news agency WAM quoted the UAE's
Ambassador to Canada Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ghafli as saying his government was
disappointed by the failure of five-year talks on the airline issue.
"The UAE entered negotiations in good faith on the
understanding that a solution would be reached ... The fact that this has not
come about undoubtedly affects the bilateral relationship," Al-Ghafli was
quoted as saying.
Canadian newspapers reported last week that Canada was
preparing for a move in anticipation of losing access to the little-known
Canadian base, called Camp Mirage.
