6-K 1 ace_6k.htm FORM 6-K ace_6k.htm



 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 6-K
 
Report of Foreign Private Issuer
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
 
For the month of
August
 
 2008
Commission File Number
000-51034
   
 
ACE Aviation Holdings Inc.
(Translation of registrant’s name into English)
 
5100 de Maisonneuve Boulevard West, Montreal, Québec, Canada, H4A 3T2
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40F.

 
Form 20-F
     
Form 40-F
 
X
 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1):           
 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7):           
 
Indicate by check mark whether by furnishing the information contained in this Form, the registrant is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 
Yes
     
No
 
X
 

             If “Yes” is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b) : 82-_____________
 




 

Document Index

Documents

1.
Quarter 2 2008 Interim Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes.

2.
Quarter 2 2008 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition.

3.
Canadian Form 52-109F2 Certification of Interim Filings – CEO.

4.
Canadian Form 52-109F2 Certification of Interim Filings – CFO.

This Report on Form 6-K is incorporated by reference into the Registration Statements on Form S-8 of the Registrant, which were originally filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 8, 2005 (File No.  333-122635) and on October 26, 2005 (File No.  333-129248).
 

 
Document 1
 
 

 
 
 
 


 












Quarter 2 2008
Interim Unaudited
Consolidated Financial Statements
and Notes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
August 8, 2008


 

 
 
 
Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

Consolidated Statement of Operations

   
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Unaudited
 
June 30
 
June 30
 
(Canadian dollars in millions except per share figures)
 
2008
     
2007*
 
2008
     
2007*
 
                           
Operating revenues
                         
Passenger
  $ 2,454     $ 2,336   $ 4,765     $ 4,488  
Cargo
    139       135     263       275  
Other
    190       188     481       521  
      2,783       2,659     5,509       5,284  
                               
Operating expenses
                             
Wages, salaries and benefits
    487       626     983       1,324  
Aircraft fuel
    848       637     1,563       1,222  
Aircraft rent
    69       91     132       195  
Airport and navigation fees
    255       256     496       499  
Aircraft maintenance, materials and supplies
    172       121     375       263  
Communications and information technology
    72       69     145       145  
Food, beverages and supplies
    81       81     158       164  
Depreciation, amortization and obsolesence
    171       149     340       295  
Commissions
    47       51     100       110  
Capacity purchase with Jazz
Note 13
  233       76     468       76  
Special charge for labour restructuring
    -       6     -       15  
Other
    350       400     778       909  
      2,785       2,563     5,538       5,217  
                               
Operating income (loss) before under-noted item
    (2 )     96     (29 )     67  
                               
Provision for cargo investigations
Note 11
  -       -     (125 )     -  
                               
Operating income (loss)
    (2 )     96     (154 )     67  
                               
Non-operating income (expense)
                             
Interest income
    23       28     48       61  
Interest expense
    (87 )     (96 )   (183 )     (219 )
Interest capitalized
    8       28     25       64  
Gain on disposal of assets
Note 1
  915       18     961       25  
Gain (loss) on financial instruments recorded at fair value
Note 5
  176       (6 )   153       28  
Equity and other investment income
Note 1
  5       24     17       27  
Other
    -       (1 )   (1 )     (1 )
      1,040       (5 )   1,020       (15 )
                               
Income before the following items
    1,038       91     866       52  
                               
Non-controlling interest
    (32 )     (56 )   32       (79 )
Foreign exchange gain (loss)
    48       158     (41 )     191  
Provision for income taxes
Note 6
                           
Current
    (1 )     -     (1 )     (6 )
Future
    (223 )     (75 )   (208 )     (112 )
                               
Income for the period
  $ 830     $ 118   $ 648     $ 46  
                               
Income per share
                             
Basic
  $ 15.46     $ 1.14   $ 11.24     $ 0.45  
Diluted
  $ 10.76     $ 0.98   $ 8.18     $ 0.44  

*Effective March 14, 2007, May 24, 2007, and October 16, 2007, the results and financial position of Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS, respectively, are not consolidated with ACE (Note 1).
 
 
 
 
  2



 
 

 

 
 
 
Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 


 
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

 
June 30
   
December 31
 
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
2008
   
2007
 
             
ASSETS
           
Current
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 1,481     $ 2,300  
Short-term investments
    844       839  
      2,325       3,139  
                 
Restricted cash
    42       124  
Accounts receivable
Note 9
  943       793  
Aircraft fuel inventory
    117       98  
Fuel derivatives
Note 5
  382       68  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    131       182  
Future income taxes
Note 6
  -       200  
      3,940       4,604  
                 
Property and equipment
Note 2
  7,502       7,925  
Deferred charges
    49       51  
Intangible assets
    660       647  
Deposits and other assets
Note 5
  650       527  
                 
    $ 12,801     $ 13,754  
                 
LIABILITIES
               
Current
               
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Note 9
$ 1,183     $ 1,249  
Advance ticket sales
    1,722       1,245  
Current portion of Aeroplan Miles obligation
    55       55  
Current portion of long-term debt and capital leases
    396       686  
      3,356       3,235  
                 
Long-term debt and capital leases
Note 2
  4,141       4,006  
Convertible preferred shares
    194       182  
Future income taxes
Note 6
  50       50  
Pension and other benefit liabilities
    1,738       1,824  
Other long-term liabilities
    511       483  
      9,990       9,780  
                 
Non-controlling interest
    724       757  
                 
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Note 7
             
Share capital and other equity
    307       450  
Contributed surplus
    170       504  
Retained earnings
    1,368       2,209  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    242       54  
      2,087       3,217  
                 
    $ 12,801     $ 13,754  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the interim consolidated financial statements.
*Effective March 14, 2007, May 24, 2007, and October 16, 2007, the results and financial position of Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS, respectively, are not consolidated with ACE (Note 1).
 
 
 
 
  3



 
 
 

 

 
 
 
 
Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

   
Six Months
   
Year
   
Six Months
 
   
Ended
   
Ended
   
Ended
 
Unaudited
 
June 30
   
December 31
   
June 30
 
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
2008
     
2007*
     
2007*
 
Share capital
                     
Common shares, beginning of period
  $ 243     $ 533     $ 533  
    Repurchase and cancellation of common shares
Note 7
  (180 )     -       -  
    Distributions of Aeroplan units
Note 1
  -       (306 )     (354 )
    Distributions of Jazz units
Note 1
  -       (70 )     (72 )
    Issue of shares through stock options exercised
    37       86       20  
Total share capital
    100       243       127  
Other equity
                       
Convertible preferred shares
    117       117       117  
Convertible senior notes
Note 2
  90       90       92  
Total share capital and other equity
    307       450       336  
Contributed surplus
                       
Balance, beginning of period
    504       25       25  
Repurchase and cancellation of common shares
Note 7
  (329 )     -       -  
Fair value of stock options issued to Corporation
                       
employees recognized as compensation expense
    2       25       8  
Fair value of exercised stock options to share capital
    (7 )     (29 )     -  
Aeroplan negative investment
Note 1
  -       483       483  
Total contributed surplus
    170       504       516  
Retained earnings
                       
Balance, beginning of period
    2,209       810       810  
Repurchase and cancellation of common shares
Note 7
  (1,489 )     -       -  
Cumulative effect of adopting new accounting policies
    -       5       8  
Repair schemes and Non-compete agreement
    -       (4 )     -  
      720       811       818  
Net income for the period
    648       1,398       46  
Total retained earnings
    1,368       2,209       864  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
                       
Balance, beginning of period
    54       -       -  
Cumulative effect of adopting new accounting policies
    -       (7 )     (7 )
Other comprehensive income
    188       61       2  
Total accumulated other comprehensive income
    242       54       (5 )
Total retained earnings and accumulated other
                       
comprehensive income
    1,610       2,263       859  
Total shareholders’ equity
  $ 2,087     $ 3,217     $ 1,711  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the interim consolidated financial statements.
*Effective March 14, 2007, May 24, 2007, and October 16, 2007, the results and financial position of Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS, respectively, are not consolidated with ACE (Note 1).

 
 
 
  4



 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 


Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

   
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Unaudited
 
June 30
 
June 30
 
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
2008
     
2007*
 
2008
     
2007*
 
Comprehensive income
                         
Net income for the period
  $ 830     $ 118   $ 648     $ 46  
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes:
Note 5
                           
Net change in unrealized loss on US Airways securities
    -       (4 )   -       (8 )
Reclassification of realized gains on US Airways securities
                             
to income
    -       (7 )   -       (7 )
Net change in unrealized gain on Jazz Air Income Fund
    (6 )     -     65       -  
Reclassification of net realized gains on Jazz Air Income
                             
Fund to income
    (65 )     -     (65 )     -  
Net change in unrealized gain on Aeroplan Income Fund
    331       -     331       -  
Reclassification of net realized gains on Aeroplan Income
                             
Fund to income
    (331 )     -     (331 )     -  
Net gains on fuel derivatives under hedge accounting
    173       8     273       14  
Reclassification of net realized (gains) losses on fuel
                             
derivatives to income
    (62 )     2     (85 )     10  
Unrealized loss on translation of self-sustaining operation
                             
(net of nil tax)
    -       (7 )   -       (7 )
      40       (8 )   188       2  
Total comprehensive income
  $ 870     $ 110   $ 836     $ 48  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the interim consolidated financial statements.
*Effective March 14, 2007, May 24, 2007, and October 16, 2007, the results and financial position of Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS, respectively, are not consolidated with ACE (Note 1).

 
 
 
  5


 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
 
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

   
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Unaudited
 
June 30
 
June 30
 
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
2008
     
2007*
 
2008
     
2007*
 
                           
Cash flows from (used for)
                         
Operating
                         
Net income for the period
  $ 830     $ 118   $ 648     $ 46  
Adjustments to reconcile to net cash from operations
                             
Depreciation, amortization and obsolescence
    171       149     340       295  
Gain on disposal of assets
Note 1
  (915 )     (18 )   (961 )     (25 )
Foreign exchange gain
    (64 )     (154 )   1       (187 )
Future income taxes
    223       75     208       112  
Excess of employee future benefit funding over
                             
expense
    (31 )     (69 )   (82 )     (138 )
Decrease in Aeroplan miles obligation
    (13 )     (21 )   (29 )     (49 )
Provision for cargo investigation
    -       -     125       -  
Non-controlling interest
    36       52     (32 )     70  
Financial instruments and other
    (168 )     36     (181 )     9  
Changes in non-cash working capital balances
    148       (37 )   409       314  
      217       131     446       447  
Financing
                             
Issue of common shares
    29       -     30       19  
Repurchase and cancellation of common shares
Note 7
  (500 )     -     (1,998 )     -  
Aircraft related borrowings
Note 2
  126       532     313       644  
Distributions paid to non-controlling interest
    -       (8 )   -       (61 )
Reduction of long-term debt and capital lease obligations
    (319 )     (90 )   (642 )     (168 )
Other
    -       1     -       -  
      (664 )     435     (2,297 )     434  
Investing
                             
Short-term investments
    (165 )     16     (4 )     (139 )
Proceeds from sale of Aeroplan units
Note 5
  692       -     692       -  
Proceeds from sale of Jazz units
Note 5
  85       -     182       -  
Exercise of ACTS Aero put option
Note 1
  (19 )     -     (19 )     -  
Proceeds from escrow related to sale of ACTS
Note 1
  -       -     40       -  
Proceeds from sale of other assets
Note 2
  -       -     27       45  
Proceeds from sale-leaseback transactions
Note 2
  297       -     708       -  
Additions to capital assets
    (225 )     (738 )   (628 )     (1,175 )
Deconsolidation of Aeroplan cash
Note 1
  -       -     -       (231 )
Deconsolidation of Jazz cash
Note 1
  -       (138 )   -       (138 )
Acquisition of Aeroman, net of cash
    -       -     -       (53 )
Other
    9       (18 )   34       (3 )
      674       (878 )   1,032       (1,694 )
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    227       (312 )   (819 )     (813 )
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
    1,254       1,353     2,300       1,854  
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
  $ 1,481     $ 1,041   $ 1,481     $ 1,041  
Cash payments of interest
  $ 81     $ 71   $ 149     $ 131  
Cash payments of income taxes
  $ 1     $ 3   $ 3     $ 9  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the interim consolidated financial statements.
*Effective March 14, 2007, May 24, 2007, and October 16, 2007, the results and financial position of Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS, respectively, are not consolidated with ACE (Note 1).
 
 
 
 
  6



 
 

 

For the period ended June 30, 2008
(currencies in millions – Canadian dollars)
 
1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND ACCOUNTING POLICIE6

ACE Aviation Holdings Inc. ("ACE"), which was incorporated on June 29, 2004, is a holding company of aviation interests. Reference to the "Corporation" in the following notes to the consolidated financial statements refers to, as the context may require, ACE and its aviation interests collectively, ACE and one or more of its aviation interests, one or more of ACE’s aviation interests, or ACE itself.
 
ACE has two reportable segments: Air Canada and Corporate Items and Eliminations (“CIE”).  During 2007 ACE had the following reportable segments: Air Canada, Aeroplan Limited Partnership (“Aeroplan”) up to March 14, 2007, Jazz Air LP (“Jazz”) up to May 24, 2007, ACTS LP (“ACTS”) up to October 16, 2007, and CIE.
 
As at June 30, 2008, ACE holds:

§  
a 75.0% direct ownership interest in Air Canada; and
   
§  
a 27.8% direct ownership interest in Aero Technical Support & Services Holdings (“ACTS Aero”).

The unaudited interim consolidated financial statements for the Corporation are based on the accounting policies consistent with those disclosed in Note 2 to the 2007 annual consolidated financial statements of the Corporation, with the exception of the changes in accounting policies described below in Changes in Accounting Policy.

In accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), these interim financial statements do not include all of the financial statement disclosures required for annual financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the 2007 annual consolidated financial statements of ACE. In management’s opinion, the financial statements reflect all adjustments that are necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods presented.
 
The Air Canada segment has historically experienced greater demand for its services in the second and third quarters of the calendar year and lower demand in the first and fourth quarters of the calendar year.  This demand pattern is principally a result of the high number of leisure travelers and their preference for travel during the spring and summer months. Air Canada has substantial fixed costs in its cost structure that do not meaningfully fluctuate with passenger demand in the short-term.
 
Certain comparative figures have been reclassified to conform to the financial statement presentation adopted in the current period.
 
The notes to the financial statements describe various transactions completed during the quarters ended June 30, and six months ending June 30, 2008 and 2007 where gains on disposal of assets have been realized.  A summary of the transactions follows:
 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30
   
June 30
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
                         
Sale of Aeroplan Income Fund units
Note 5
$ 830     $ -     $ 830     $ -  
Sale of Jazz Air Income Fund units
Note 5
  78       -       167       -  
Boeing 767 impairment provision
Note 2
  -       -       (38 )     -  
Disposal of CRJ-100 Aircraft
Note 2
  -       14       -       14  
Sale of US Airways shares
Note 5
  -       4       -       4  
Sale of commercial real estate
Note 2
  -       -       -       5  
Other
    7       -       2       2  
Gain on disposal of assets
  $ 915     $ 18     $ 961     $ 25  

 
 
 
  7



 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 


 
ACCOUNTING FOR AEROPLAN
 
Effective March 14, 2007 as a result of the special distribution of Aeroplan Income Fund (“AIF”) units, and the conversion of ACE’s remaining Aeroplan LP units into units of AIF, the Corporation’s results in these interim consolidated financial statements include the consolidation of Aeroplan operations only up to the date of distribution.  From that day on, ACE’s investment in Aeroplan is accounted for using the equity method.  Subsequent to the sale of units on June 2, 2008 (Note 5), ACE has no ownership interest in Aeroplan.
 
Immediately prior to the distribution on March 14, 2007, ACE’s net investment in Aeroplan was negative $710, which was negative due to accumulated distributions to ACE in excess of income and capital invested, net of fair value adjustments recorded upon the application of fresh start reporting. Subsequent to the distribution on March 14, 2007, ACE's 40.1% proportionate interest in the accumulated deficit of Aeroplan LP was $284.  ACE retained this negative investment of $284 and reflected the amount in other long term liabilities.  As a result, the difference between the net investment prior to and after the distribution was recorded as a credit to Contributed surplus in the amount of $426.  The May 24, 2007 distribution of Aeroplan units resulted in a further reduction to the negative investment in Aeroplan of $63 with a credit to Contributed Surplus of $57 and a reduction to interest expense of $6 for a total credit to Contributed surplus of $483 for the six months ended June 30, 2007.  The cash flow impact to ACE of deconsolidating Aeroplan of $231 reflects the Aeroplan cash removed from the consolidated statement of financial position of ACE is classified as a cash outflow from investing activities.
 
Distributions to common and preferred shareholders during the six months ended June 30, 2007, resulted in:
 
§  
a $354 reduction to share capital due to the use of future income tax assets;
   
§  
interest expense of $6; and
   
§  
a proportionate reduction to intangible assets of $12 related to the fair value adjustments to Aeroplan intangibles recorded on consolidation as a result of the dilution of interests.
   
Refer to Note 4 in the notes of the 2007 annual consolidated financial statements of the Corporation for complete disclosure of 2007 Aeroplan transactions.

With the reduction of the ownership interest below 20% and the termination of the Securityholders’ Agreement on May 9, 2008, ACE no longer had significant influence over Aeroplan.

ACCOUNTING FOR JAZZ
 
Prior to the distribution of units on May 24, 2007 Air Canada consolidated Jazz under ACG-15 Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities (“AcG 15”).  As a result of the Corporation’s distribution of units of Jazz Air Income Fund (“JAIF”) on May 24, 2007, ACE’s ownership interest in JAIF was reduced from 58.8% to 49.0%.  This ownership interest was further reduced to 20.1% on October 22, 2007 and to 9.5% on January 24, 2008.  JAIF holds all of the outstanding units of Jazz.  Effective May 24, 2007 JAIF was deemed to be the primary beneficiary of Jazz under AcG-15 Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, and accordingly it consolidates Jazz from that date.  Prior to May 24, 2007 inter-company transactions were eliminated in these consolidated financial statements.
 
These consolidated financial statements include the consolidation of Jazz operations up to the date of the May 24, 2007 distribution and from that date ACE’s investment in Jazz was accounted for using the equity method. Subsequent to the sale on January 24, 2008 and termination of the Securityholders’ Agreement on February 7, 2008, ACE no longer equity accounted for Jazz and ACE’s investment in Jazz was classified as an available-for-sale investment.  Subsequent to the completion of the sale of JAIF units on June 2, 2008 (Note 5) ACE has no ownership interest in Jazz.
 
Refer to Note 13 for a summary of the transactions between Air Canada and Jazz under the Jazz Capacity Purchase Agreement (the “Jazz CPA”) for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2008 and 2007.
 
Distributions to common and preferred shareholders during the six months ended June 30, 2007, resulted in:
 
§  
a $72 reduction to share capital;
   
§  
interest expense of $3; and
 
 
 
 
  8



 
 
 

 

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 


 
 
§  
a proportionate reduction to intangible assets of $3 related to the fair value adjustments to Jazz intangibles recorded on consolidation as a result of the dilution of interests.
   
Refer to Note 5 in the notes of the 2007 annual consolidated financial statements of the Corporation for complete disclosure of 2007 Jazz transactions.
 
ACCOUNTING FOR ACTS
 
On October 16, 2007 ACE sold substantially all of the assets and liabilities of ACTS to ACTS Aero for cash and equity.  Subsequently, ACE held a 22.8% equity interest in ACTS Aero which purchased the assets and conducts the business previously operated by ACTS.  On January 14, 2008, the full balance of $40 of funds held in escrow on the closing of the monetization of ACTS were received by ACE.
 
As part of the monetization process an entity related to Grupo TACA exchanged its exchangeable share and received $31 cash, a 5% equity stake in ACTS and a put option that allowed it to put its 5% equity interest back to ACE for US$18 within 12 months.  Refer to Note 6 in the notes of the 2007 annual consolidated financial statements of the Corporation for complete disclosure of the monetization.  During Quarter 2, 2008, the entity related to Grupo TACA exercised its put option and sold its 5% equity interest to ACE for $19 (US$18) increasing ACE’s ownership interest in ACTS Aero from 22.8% to 27.8%.  The liability related to this redemption obligation, initially recorded, was settled as part of the transaction.
 
These consolidated financial statements include the consolidation of ACTS operations up to October 16, 2007.  From that date ACE’s investment in ACTS Aero is accounted for using the equity method.  As at June 30, 2008 ACE’s investment in ACTS Aero has a carrying amount of $82 ($72 at December 31, 2007) and is included in Deposits and other assets.
 
CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
Capital Disclosures and Financial Instruments – Presentation and Disclosure
 
Effective January 1, 2008, the Corporation adopted three new CICA accounting standards: section 1535, Capital Disclosures, section 3862, Financial Instruments – Disclosures, and section 3863, Financial Instruments – Presentation.
 
Section 1535 establishes disclosure requirements about an entity’s capital and how it is managed. The purpose is to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the entity’s objectives, policies and processes for managing capital. Refer to Note 12 for the Corporation’s Section 1535 disclosures.
 
Sections 3862 and 3863 replace section 3861, Financial Instruments – Disclosure and Presentation, revising and enhancing its disclosure requirements in certain areas, and carrying forward unchanged its presentation requirements. These new sections place increased emphasis on disclosures about the nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments and how the entity manages those risks.  Refer to Note 5 for the Corporation’s financial instruments disclosures.  Where the disclosure requirements of the new standards did not change from the previous standard and where there have been no significant updates from the disclosures in Note 20 of the 2007 annual consolidated financial statements of the Corporation, no additional disclosure has been provided.
 
Inventories
 
Effective January 1, 2008, the Corporation adopted CICA section 3031, Inventories, which replaced section 3030, Inventories. Section 3031 provides more extensive guidance on measurement, and expands disclosure requirements to increase transparency.  The Corporation’s accounting policy for aircraft fuel inventory is consistent with measurement requirements in the new standard and as a result, no adjustment was recorded on transition; however, additional disclosures are required.  The additional disclosure requirements will be applied as described below.
 
The main features of the new standard, which impact the Corporation, include:
 
§  
Measurement of inventories at the lower of cost and net realizable value, with guidance on the determination of costs.

§  
Consistent use of either a first-in first-out or weighted average formula to measure the cost of other inventories.  The Corporation uses a weighted average formula to measure cost.
 
 
 
 
  9



 
 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 



§  
Reversal of previous write-downs to net realizable value when there is a subsequent increase in the value of inventories.

§  
Disclosure of the accounting polices used, carrying amounts, amounts recognized as an expense, write-downs, and the amount of any reversal of any write-downs recognized as a reduction in expenses.

Future Accounting Standard Changes

In February 2008, the CICA issued section 3064, Goodwill and Intangible Assets which provides guidance on the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure for goodwill and intangible assets, other than the initial recognition of goodwill or intangible assets acquired in a business combination.  The standard is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after October 1, 2008, and requires retroactive application to prior period financial statements. The Corporation is in the process of evaluating the impact of this new standard for adoption on January 1, 2009.
 
In February 2008, the Canadian Accounting Standards Board confirmed January 1, 2011 as the changeover date for Canadian publicly accountable enterprises to start using International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. IFRS uses a conceptual framework similar to Canadian GAAP, but there are significant differences in recognition, measurement and disclosures. The Corporation is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of IFRS on its consolidated financial statements.
 

 
 
 
  10




 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

 

2. FINANCING AND INVESTING ACTIVITIES

ACE CONVERTIBLE SENIOR NOTES
 
In connection with the share purchase and cancellation by ACE on June 18, 2008, described in Note 7, the conversion rate of ACE's 4.25% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2035 was adjusted from 39.0341 to 40.6917 (after it had been adjusted from 37.6879 to 39.0341 effective January 11, 2008) Class A variable voting shares or Class B voting shares per $1,000 principal amount of Convertible Senior Notes. The adjustment is effective June 19, 2008 and has been determined in accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the Convertible Senior Notes.
 
During Quarter 1, 2008, Convertible Senior Notes with a face value of $1 were converted at the option of the holder and ACE settled for cash of $1, reducing the liability and equity portions of the notes.   The gain realized on conversion was negligible.
 

 
AIR CANADA AIRCRAFT FINANCING AND INVESTING
 
Revolving Credit Facility

Air Canada has a secured revolving credit facility of $400, as further described in Note 11 to the 2007 annual consolidated financial statements of the Corporation, which is not available to Air Canada until and unless Air Canada and the lenders conclude amendments satisfactory to each of them relating to a financial covenant and other business terms. Subsequent to June 30, 2008, Air Canada and the lenders have entered into an amending agreement pursuant to which the parties undertake to negotiate such further amendments to the facility and Air Canada agrees not to request any funding under the facility until such further amendments are agreed.  The outcome of the negotiations remain uncertain such that there can be no assurance that amendments satisfactory to the parties will be concluded, that amounts under the facility will ever be available to Air Canada, that Air Canada will not decide to terminate the facility, or that a replacement facility will be concluded.

Sale-Leaseback

During Quarter 2, 2008, Air Canada received delivery of three Boeing 777 aircraft.  One aircraft was financed with guarantee support from the Export-Import Bank of the United States (“EXIM”), as outlined below.  Two of the aircraft were financed under sale and leaseback transactions with proceeds of $297.  The resulting gain on sale of $30 has been deferred and will be recognized as a reduction to Aircraft rent expense over the term of the leases.  The leases are accounted for as operating leases with 12 year terms, paid monthly.

During Quarter 1, 2008, Air Canada received delivery of four Boeing 777 aircraft.  One aircraft was financed with guarantee support from EXIM, as outlined below.  Three of the aircraft were financed under sale and leaseback transactions with proceeds of $411.  The resulting gain on sale of $47 has been deferred and will be recognized as a reduction to Aircraft rent expense over the term of the leases.  The leases are accounted for as operating leases with 12 year terms, paid monthly.

 
 
 
  11



 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
 
 
Borrowings

Boeing

The following table summarizes the Japanese Yen (JPY) denominated loans, secured by the delivered aircraft, that Air Canada drew during the six month period ended June 30, 2008 to finance the acquisition of two Boeing aircraft:

 
Number of
Aircraft
Interest
 Rate
Maturity
Original
 JPY Loan
 Amount
Original
CDN$ Loan
 Amount
Quarter 2 2008
         
Boeing 777 - 300
1
1.05%
2020
11,199
$  106
Quarter 1 2008
         
Boeing 777 - 200
1
1.03%
2020
10,387
$    98

During Quarter 2, 2008, financing fees of $3 were recorded for these borrowings ($4 recorded during the first quarter of 2008).  These fees are capitalized for periods preceding the dates that the assets are available for service.

The following table summarizes the principal repayment requirements (in CDN$) of the Boeing aircraft financing obtained during the six month period ended June 30, 2008, based upon the foreign exchange rate as at June 30, 2008:

 
Remainder of
 2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
Thereafter
Total
Boeing aircraft financing
$   9
$    17
$    17
$    17
$    17
$    127
$   204

Embraer
 
During Quarter 1, 2008, Air Canada received delivery of three Embraer 190 aircraft.  The following table summarizes the loans, secured by the delivered aircraft, that Air Canada drew during the six month period ended June 30, 2008 to finance the acquisition of Embraer aircraft:

 
Number of
 Aircraft
Interest
 Rate
Maturity
Original
  US$ Loan
 Amount
Original
 CDN$ Loan
 Amount
Quarter 1 2008
         
Embraer 190
                     3
4.97 - 6.39%
2020
$    68
$    67
     
During Quarter 1, 2008, financing fees of $1 were recorded for these borrowings.  These fees are capitalized for periods preceding the dates that the assets are available for service.

The following table summarizes the principal repayment requirements (in CDN$) of the Embraer aircraft financing obtained during the six month period ended June 30, 2008, based upon the foreign exchange rate as at June 30, 2008:

 
Remainder of
 2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
Thereafter
Total
Embraer aircraft financing
$    2
$    3
$    3
$    3
$    4
$    53
$    68

 
Disposals of and Provisions for Assets
 
During Quarter 2, 2008:
 
§  
There were no significant disposals or provisions during the quarter.
 
 
 
 
  12



 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

 
During Quarter 1, 2008:
 
§  
Air Canada recorded an impairment charge of $38 ($26 net of tax) on its fleet of B767-200 aircraft due to the revised retirement date of the aircraft.
   
§  
Air Canada sold an A319 aircraft for proceeds of $23 with a book value of $21, resulting in a gain on sale of $2 ($1 net of tax).
   
During Quarter 2, 2007:
 
§  
A CRJ-100 aircraft owned by Air Canada and leased to Jazz was damaged beyond repair. Given the estimated insurance proceeds, Air Canada recorded a gain on disposal of $14.
   
During Quarter 1, 2007:
 
§  
Air Canada sold one of its commercial real estate properties for net proceeds of $42 with a carrying value of $37.  Air Canada recorded a gain on sale of $5 ($4 net of tax).
   
§  
Air Canada sold 18 parked aircraft for proceeds of $2 with a nil book value.  Air Canada recorded a gain on sale of $2 ($1 net of tax).
   
Predelivery Financing
 
During Quarter 2, 2008:
 
§  
Air Canada drew an additional amount of $13 and made repayments of $197 on the predelivery financing as described in Note 11 to the 2007 annual consolidated financial statements of the Corporation.
   
During Quarter 1, 2008:
 
§  
Air Canada drew an additional amount of $26 and made repayments of $238 on the predelivery financing, which is described in Note 11 to the 2007 annual consolidated financial statements of the Corporation.
   
Commitments

Refer to Note 10 for a discussion of Air Canada’s aircraft commitments.
 
 
  13


 
 

 

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 


 
3. PENSION AND OTHER EMPLOYEE FUTURE BENEFITS EXPENSE

Air Canada maintains several defined benefit and defined contribution plans providing pension, other post-retirement and post-employment benefits to its employees, including those employees of Air Canada who are contractually assigned to work at Aeroplan and ACTS Aero.

The Corporation has recorded pension and other employee future benefits expense as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
 
June 30
   
June 30
 
 
2008
     
2007*
   
2008
     
2007*
 
                           
Pension benefit expense
$ 28     $ 37     $ 45     $ 75  
Other employee future benefits expense
  26       23       52       53  
    54       60       97       128  
Amount charged to Aeroplan and ACTS Aero
  (11 )     (2 )     (20 )     (2 )
Net pension benefit and other employee future benefits expense
$ 43     $ 58     $ 77     $ 126  

*Effective March 14, 2007, the results and financial position of Aeroplan, effective May 24, 2007, the results and financial position of Jazz and effective October 16, 2007, the results and financial position of ACTS are not consolidated with ACE (Note 1)
.
 
 
 
  14


 

 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

 

4. LABOUR RELATED PROVISIONS

The following table outlines the changes to labour related provisions which are included in long-term employee liabilities (current portion included in Accounts payable and accrued liabilities):

   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30
   
June 30
 
   
2008
     
2007*
   
2008
     
2007*
 
Beginning of period
  $ 58     $ 106     $ 66     $ 109  
Interest accretion
    1       2       2       3  
Charges recorded in wages, salaries and benefits
    13       15       13       26  
Amounts disbursed
    (10 )     (22 )     (19 )     (37 )
Deconsolidation of Jazz
Note 1
  -       (4 )     -       (4 )
End of period
    62       97       62       97  
Current portion
    (25 )     (54 )     (25 )     (54 )
    $ 37     $ 43     $ 37     $ 43  

*Effective May 24, 2007, the results and financial position of Jazz are not consolidated with ACE (Note 1). Effective October 16, 2007, the results and financial position of ACTS are not consolidated with ACE (Note 1).
 
The Corporation offers severance programs to certain employees from time to time. The cost of these programs is recorded within operating expenses.  During the second quarter of 2008, the Corporation recorded an expense of $5 against these ongoing programs.
 
In response to record high fuel prices, on June 17, 2008, Air Canada announced a reduction in capacity which will impact fleet and staffing levels effective with the implementation of its fall and winter schedule.  The expected reduction in flying will require fewer employees to operate the airline resulting in a decrease in staff levels of up to 2,000 positions across all levels of the organization.  Air Canada recorded an expense of $8 in Wages, salaries and benefits expense related to the reduction of non-unionized employees under this plan in the second quarter of 2008.  Costs related to the planned unionized staff reductions are not yet determinable.

During Quarter 2, 2007, a charge of $6 ($15 for the six months ended June 30, 2007) was recorded in the ACTS segment for the workforce reduction announced as a result of the termination of a heavy maintenance contract at ACTS.
 
 
 
 
  15


 

 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

 

5. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT

As described in Note 1, the Corporation adopted CICA Section 3862 and 3863 effective January 1, 2008.  These new standards enhance disclosure with respect to financial instruments.

Summary of Financial Instruments

 
Carrying Amounts
 
 
 
June 30, 2008
   
December 31
2007
 
 
 
Financial instruments classification
       
 
Held for
trading
 
Held to
 maturity
 
Loans and receivables
 
Liabilities
 at
 amortized
 cost
 
Total
       
                           
Financial Assets
                         
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 1,481   $ -   $ -   $ -   $ 1,481     $ 2,300  
Short-term investments
  844     -     -     -     844       839  
Restricted cash
  42     -     -     -     42       124  
Accounts receivable
  -     -     943     -     943       793  
Deposits and other assets
                                     
Restricted cash
  91     -     -     -     91       84  
Asset backed commercial paper
  29     -     -     -     29       29  
Aircraft related and other
                                     
deposits
  -     321     -     -     321       307  
Derivative instruments
                                     
Fuel derivatives (1)
  37     -     -     -     37       10  
Foreign exchange derivatives
  1     -     -     -     1       -  
Interest rate swaps
  7     -     -     -     7       7  
  $ 2,532   $ 321   $ 943   $ -   $ 3,796     $ 4,493  
                                       
Financial Liabilities
                                     
Accounts payable
$ -   $ -   $ -   $ 1,183   $ 1,183     $ 1,266  
Current portion of long-term debt
                                     
and capital leases
  -     -     -     396     396       686  
Long-term debt and capital leases
  -     -     -     4,141     4,141       4,006  
Convertible preferred shares
  -     -     -     194     194       182  
Derivative instruments
                                     
Foreign exchange derivatives
  -     -     -     -     -       124  
Cross-currency interest rate
                                     
swaps
  13     -     -     -     13       -  
Interest rate swaps
  -     -     -     -     -       2  
  $ 13   $ -   $ -   $ 5,914   $ 5,927     $ 6,266  

 
(1)  
The fuel derivatives above relate to the current and long-term portion of fuel derivatives not designated under fuel hedge accounting. Fuel derivatives under hedge accounting have a fair value of $463 ($67 as at December 31, 2007) and are described further below. 

There have been no changes in classification of financial instruments since December 31, 2007.

For cash flow purposes, the Corporation may settle, from time to time, certain short-term investments prior to their original maturity.  For this reason, these financial instruments do not meet the criteria of held to maturity and are therefore designated as held for trading.  They are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in interest income.
 
 
 
 
  16



 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

Collateral held in leasing arrangements

Air Canada holds security deposits with a carrying value of $14, which approximates fair value, as security for certain aircraft leased and sub-leased to third parties.  Of these deposits, $9 has been assigned as collateral to secure Air Canada's obligations to the lessors of the aircraft. Any collateral held by Air Canada is returned to the lessee or sub-lessee, as the case may be at the end of the lease or sub-lease term provided there have been no events of default under the leases or sub-leases.

Summary of Gains (Losses) on Financial Instruments Recorded at Fair Value

 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
June 30
 
June 30
 
 
2008
 
2007
 
2008
 
2007
 
Ineffective portion of fuel hedges
$ 115     $ (14 ) $ 82     $ 16  
Fuel derivatives not under hedge accounting
  79       2     85       4  
Cross currency interest rate swaps
  (19 )     -     (13 )     -  
Other
  1       6     (1 )     8  
Gain (loss) on financial instruments recorded at fair value
$ 176     $ (6 ) $ 153     $ 28  

Risk Management

The Corporation is exposed to the following risks as a result of holding financial instruments: interest rate risk, foreign exchange risk, liquidity risk, market risk, and fuel price risk.  The following is a description of these risks and how they are managed.

Interest Rate Risk
 
Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates.

The Corporation enters into both fixed and floating rate debt and also leases certain assets where the rental amount fluctuates based on changes in short term interest rates.  The Corporation manages interest rate risk on a portfolio basis and seeks financing terms in individual arrangements that are most advantageous taking into account all relevant factors, including credit margin, term and basis.  The risk management objective is to minimize the potential for changes in interest rates to cause adverse changes in cash flows to the Corporation.  The temporary investment portfolio which earns a floating rate of return is an economic hedge for a portion of the floating rate debt.

The ratio of fixed to floating rate debt outstanding is designed to maintain flexibility in the Air Canada’s capital structure and is based upon a long term objective of 60% fixed and 40% floating.  Air Canada’s current ratio is 60% fixed and 40% floating, including the effects of interest rate swap positions.

The following are the current derivatives employed in interest rate risk management activities and the adjustments recorded during the first six months of 2008:

§  
Air Canada entered into three cross-currency interest rate swap agreements with terms of March 2019, May 2019 and June 2019 respectively, relating to Boeing 777 financing with an aggregate notional value of $294 (US$289) as at June 30, 2008. These swaps convert US denominated debt principal and interest payments into Canadian denominated debt at a foreign exchange rate of par (US$1/CAD$1) and convert from a fixed rate of 5.208% to a floating rate. These derivative instruments have not been designated as hedges for accounting purposes and are fair valued on a quarterly basis. As at June 30, 2008, the fair value of these contracts was $13 in favour of the counterparty.  Air Canada recorded a loss of $19 during the three months ended June 30, 2008 ($13 loss for the six months ended June 30, 2008).
   
§  
During Quarter 1, 2008, Air Canada’s one remaining Embraer 190 aircraft interest rate swap contract matured, with a fair value of $2 in favour of the counterparty.  No gain or loss was recorded during the period.
 
 
 
 
  17


 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

 
Foreign Exchange Risk
 
Foreign exchange risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in foreign exchange rates.

The majority of the Corporation’s outstanding debt is denominated in US dollars.  The US dollar debt acts as an economic hedge against the related aircraft, which is routinely purchased and sold by Air Canada in US dollars.

The Corporation is also exposed to foreign exchange risk on foreign currency denominated trade receivables and foreign currency denominated net cash flows.

The Corporation’s risk management objective is to reduce cash flow risk related to foreign denominated cash flows.  To help manage this risk, the Corporation enters into certain foreign exchange forward contracts or currency swaps. As at June 30, 2008, the Corporation had entered into foreign currency forward contracts and option agreements converting US dollars and Euros into Canadian dollars on $1,993 (US$1,958) and $30 (EUR 19) which mature in 2008, 2009, and 2010. The fair value of these foreign currency contracts as at June 30, 2008 is $1 in favour of Air Canada (December 31, 2007 - $124 in favour of third parties on $2,132 (US $2,158) and $26 (EUR 18) which mature in 2008 and 2009). During the three months ended June 30, 2008, a gain of $4 was recorded in foreign exchange gain (loss) related to these derivatives ($83 for the six months ended June 30, 2008). These derivative instruments have not been designated as hedges for accounting purposes.
 
The cross-currency swap as described above under interest rate risk management acts as an economic hedge of the foreign exchange risk on the financing related to two Boeing 777 aircraft with a principal amount of $294 (US$289) as at June 30, 2008.

Air Canada had also entered into currency swap agreements for 11 CRJ aircraft.  These agreements matured in January 2008 with a nominal fair value.  No gain or loss was recorded during the period.

Liquidity risk

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Corporation will encounter difficulty in meeting obligations associated with its financial liabilities.  The long-term debt issued by the Corporation generally has fixed principal and interest repayment requirements over the term of the instrument.

The Corporation monitors and manages liquidity risk by preparing rolling cash flow forecasts, monitoring the condition and value of assets available to be used as security in financing arrangements, and maintaining flexibility in financing arrangements. Refer to the Maturity Analysis below for additional information.

Market risk

Market risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market prices. Market risk comprises three types of risk: foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk and other price risk, which includes commodity price risk.  Refer to the Asset-Backed Commercial Paper section below for information regarding these instruments held by the Corporation and the associated market risks.

The Corporation is exposed to market risks through the derivative instruments entered into.  The Corporation uses derivative instruments only for risk management purposes and not for generating trading profit.  As such, any change in cash flows associated with derivative instruments due to their exposure to market risks is designed to be offset by changes in cash flows related to the risk being hedged.
 
 
 
  18


 
 

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

Sensitivity Analysis
 
The following table is a sensitivity analysis for each type of market risk relevant to the significant financial instruments recorded by the Corporation.  The sensitivity analysis is based on a reasonably possible movement within the forecast period, being one year.  These assumptions may not be representative of actual movements in these risks and should not be relied upon.

 
Interest
rate
 risk(1)
 
 
Foreign exchange rate
 risk (2)
 
 
Other price risk (3)
 
 
Other price risk  (3)
 
 
 
Income
 
Income
 
Income
 
OCI, net
 
Income
 
OCI, net
 
 
 
1%
change
 
5%
increase
 
5%
decrease
 
10% decrease
 
10%
increase
 
                             
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 13   $ -   $ -   $ -   $ -   $ -   $ -  
Short-term investments
$ 9   $ -   $ -   $ -   $ -   $ -   $ -  
Aircraft related deposits
$ -   $ (8 ) $ 8   $ -   $ -   $ -   $ -  
                                           
Long-term debt and capital leases
$ 14   $ 210   $ (210 ) $ -   $ -   $ -   $ -  
                                           
Foreign exchange derivatives
$ -   $ (135 ) $ 139   $ -   $ -   $ -   $ -  
Fuel derivatives
$ -   $ -   $ -   $ (117 ) $ (44 ) $ 123   $ 41  
Cross-currency interest rate swaps
$ 15   $ (17 ) $ 17   $ -   $ -   $ -   $ -  

 
(1)  
Changes in interest rates will impact income favourably or unfavourably by approximately the same amount, based on current price levels and assumptions.
   
(2)  
Increase in foreign exchange relates to a strengthening of the Canadian dollar.
   
(3)  
Other price risk relates to the Air Canada’s fuel derivatives.  The sensitivity analysis is based upon a 10% decrease or increase in the price of the underlying commodity.  It also assumes that hedge accounting is 100% effective for the period and that changes in the fair value for derivatives that mature within one year are recorded in income whereas derivatives maturing beyond one year are recorded in OCI.
   

 
Fuel Price Risk
 
In order to manage its exposure to jet fuel prices and minimize volatility in operating cash flows, Air Canada enters into derivative contracts with financial intermediaries.  Air Canada uses derivative contracts on jet fuel and also on other crude oil-based commodities, such as heating oil and crude oil, due to the relative limited liquidity of jet fuel derivative instruments on a medium to long term horizon, since jet fuel is not traded on an organized futures exchange.  Air Canada does not purchase or hold any derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
 
Fuel derivatives include both derivatives designated and not designated under fuel hedge accounting.  The current portion of the derivative asset of $382 is included in Fuel derivatives and the long term portion of the derivative asset of $118 is included in Deposits and other assets on the Consolidated statement of financial position.

The following information summarizes the financial statement impact of derivatives designated under fuel hedge accounting, before the impact of tax:

§  
The fair value of outstanding fuel derivatives under hedge accounting at June 30, 2008 was $463 in favour of the Corporation.
   
§  
The change in fair value of derivatives during Quarter 2, 2008, was $370 ($483 for the six months ended June 30, 2008):
   
o  
The unrealized effective change in the fair value of derivatives recorded in Other comprehensive income (“OCI”) during the second quarter of 2008 was $213 before tax
 
 
 
 
  19


 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 


 
 
  expense of $68 ($347 before tax expense of $110 for the six months ended June 30, 2008).  The realized effective change in the fair value of derivatives recorded in OCI during the second quarter of 2008 was $42 before tax expense of $14 ($54 before tax expense of $18 for the six months ended June 30, 2008).  OCI amounts for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 of $173 and $273, respectively, are presented net of tax expense on the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income.
   
o  
The ineffective change in the fair value of derivatives recorded in non-operating income (expense) for the second quarter of 2008 was a gain of $115 ($82 for the six months ended June 30, 2008). The ineffective portion is calculated as the difference between the intrinsic value and change in fair market value of the derivatives as well as the difference between the Air Canada proxy derivative value and the counterparty derivative value.  The gain in non-operating income (expense) is due to the change in fair market value of the derivatives being higher than the change in intrinsic value.
   
§  
During Quarter 1, 2008, hedge accounting was discontinued for certain fuel hedge contracts, with a fair value of $8, where the hedging relationship ceased to satisfy the conditions for hedge accounting. Certain of these contracts were redesignated under hedge accounting during the second quarter of 2008.  Air Canada still continues to hold these derivatives as it believes they continue to be good economic hedges in managing its exposure to jet fuel prices. The value of the Accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) balance recognized in connection with these derivatives will be taken into fuel expense upon the maturity of the contracts.  No further dedesignations were required during the second quarter of 2008.
   
§  
During Quarter 2, 2008, fuel derivative contracts matured with fair values in favour of Air Canada for $93.
   
§  
During Quarter 2, 2008, the benefit to fuel expense was $92 before tax expenses of $30 ($126 for the six months ended June 30, 2008 before tax expenses of $41).  This benefit was recognized through the removal of the amount from AOCI.  The after tax amount of $62 is shown in Reclassification of net realized (gains) losses on fuel derivatives to income on the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income ($85 for the six months ended June 30, 2008).
   
§  
During Quarter 2, 2008, the net impact to AOCI was an increase of $163 before tax expense of $52 ($275 before tax expense of $87 for the six months ended June 30, 2008). As at June 30, 2008, the balance in AOCI was $359 before tax. The estimated net amount of existing gain and losses reported in AOCI that is expected to be reclassified to net income (loss) during the following 12 months is $308 before tax.
   
The following information summarizes the financial statement impact of derivatives not designated under fuel hedge accounting, but held as economic hedges, before the impact of tax:
 
§  
During Quarter 2, 2008, fuel derivative contracts matured in favour of Air Canada for $12 ($19 for the six months ended June 30, 2008).

§  
The fair value of outstanding fuel derivatives not under hedge accounting at June 30, 2008 was $37 in favour of Air Canada.

§  
The change in fair value of the derivative contracts for the period was a gain of $79 ($85 for the six months ended June 30, 2008) and was recorded in non-operating income (expense).

Asset-Backed Commercial Paper (“ABCP”)
 
Air Canada holds $37 ($29 net of a fair value adjustment) in non-bank sponsored ABCP which has been recorded in Deposits and other assets.  These investments were scheduled to mature during the third quarter 2007.  An agreement in principle to restructure the ABCP investments was approved by the Pan-Canadian Committee for Third Party Structured ABCP (“Committee”) on December 23, 2007 and approved by vote, which occurred on April 25, 2008.  Under the terms of the restructuring, all of the ABCP would be exchanged for longer-term notes that will match the maturity of the underlying assets in the proposed structure.   Air Canada is not accruing interest on these investments at this time.
 
 
 
 
  20



 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

The carrying value as at June 30, 2008 is based on a number of assumptions as to the fair value of the investments including factors such as estimated cash flow scenarios and risk adjusted discount rates. The assumptions used in estimating the fair value of the investments are subject to change, which may result in further adjustments to non-operating results in the future.  No adjustments to the carrying value were recorded during the first six months of 2008.
 
Maturity Analysis
 
The following is a maturity analysis, based on contractual undiscounted cash flows, for selected financial liabilities.  The analysis includes both the principal and interest component of the payment obligations on long-term debt and is based on interest rates and the applicable foreign exchange rate effective as at June 30, 2008.
 
   
Remainder of
 2008
   
2009
   
2010
   
2011
   
2012
   
Thereafter
   
Total
 
Convertible senior notes
  $ 7     $ 14     $ 330     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 351  
Long-term debt obligations
    153       299       278       283       287       2,009       3,309  
Debt consolidated under AcG-15
    101       106       153       338       93       304       1,095  
Capital lease obligations
    119       161       157       151       192       604       1,384  
    $ 380     $ 580     $ 918     $ 772     $ 572     $ 2,917     $ 6,139  

 
Maturities also include Accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $1,183 which are expected to be settled within one year.
 
Aeroplan
 
On April 21, 2008 ACE sold a total of 20.4 million trust units of AIF at a price of $17.50 per unit representing total net proceeds to ACE of $343 and realized a gain on sale of $413 ($340 after tax). Following the sale, ACE held 9.9% of the issued and outstanding units of AIF.
 
On June 2, 2008, ACE sold the remaining trust units of AIF for total net proceeds to ACE of $349, and realized a gain on sale of $417 ($344 after tax). ACE no longer has an ownership interest in Aeroplan.
 
With the reduction of the ownership interest below 20% and the termination of the Securityholders’ Agreement on May 9, 2008, ACE no longer had significant influence over Aeroplan.  The equity investment ACE had in Aeroplan was classified as available-for-sale and the investment was adjusted to fair value.  The adjustment to fair value recorded to OCI was $331, net of tax of $72, which was subsequently realized into income on June 2, 2008 as part of the final sale.
 
Jazz
 
On June 2, 2008, ACE sold its remaining trust units of JAIF for total net proceeds to ACE of $85, and realized a gain on sale of $78 ($62 net of taxes). Net realized gains of $65, net of tax of $14, were taken into income from OCI.  ACE no longer has an ownership interest in Jazz.
 
On January 24, 2008 ACE sold a total of 13 million trust units of JAIF at a price of $7.45 per unit representing total net proceeds to ACE of $97 and realized a gain on sale of $89 ($71 net of taxes). Following the sale, ACE held 9.5% of the issued and outstanding units of JAIF.
 
With the reduction of the ownership interest below 20% and the termination of the Securityholders’ Agreement on February 7, 2008, ACE no longer had significant influence over Jazz.  The equity investment ACE had in Jazz was classified as available-for-sale and unrealized period changes in fair value were recorded in OCI.  The adjustment to fair value recorded in OCI amounted to $71, net of tax of ($15) during Quarter 1, 2008.  During Quarter 2, 2008, the period change in fair value of ($6), net of tax of $1, was recorded in OCI.
 
 
 
  21


 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

US Airways (2007)
 
During Quarter 2, 2007, the Corporation disposed of 0.249 million shares of its holding in US Airways Group, Inc. (“US Airways”).  The net proceeds from the sale transactions amounted to $8 (US$8).  The Corporation recorded a pre-tax gain of $4 ($3 after tax) and a reduction to AOCI of $7, net of tax as a result of this transaction.
 
As at June 30, 2007, the Corporation held 0.251 million shares in US Airways with a market value of $8 (US$8).  The period change in fair value had been treated as a charge through OCI amounting to $4, net of tax of $1 during Quarter 2, 2007 (six month period ended charge of $8, net of tax of $2). As at June 30, 2007, an amount of $3, net of tax, relating to the unrealized gain on the investment is included in AOCI.
 
 
 
 
  22




 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

 

 
6. INCOME TAXES

 
June 30
 
December 31
 
Asset
2008
 
2007
 
             
Future income tax asset recorded in current assets (a)
  $ -     $ 200  
                 
 
June 30
 
December 31
 
Liability
2008
 
2007
 
Accrued income tax provision (b)
  $ (96 )   $ -  
Long-term tax payable (b)
    (10 )     (10 )
Future income tax liability (b)
    (50 )     (50 )
    $ (156 )   $ (60 )

a) Future Income Tax Assets
 
During 2008, future income tax assets declined by $200 as a result of the following:
 
§  
a $146 reduction through the realization of future income tax assets on the disposal of AIF units (Note 5);
   
§  
a $34 reduction through the realization of future income tax assets on the disposal of JAIF units (Note 5); and
   
§  
a $20 reduction for valuation allowance recorded on certain future income tax assets of ACE.
   
b) Taxes Payable and Future Income Tax Liability
 
An accrued income tax provision of $96 recorded by Air Canada is included in Accounts payable and accrued liabilities.  This is a non-cash item that is expected to reverse.
 
In 2007, Air Canada recorded a current income tax expense of $10 resulting from the Federal and Ontario harmonization of corporate taxes.  Air Canada has a cash tax payable of $10 that is payable over a five year period beginning in 2009.  This amount is included in Other long-term liabilities.
 
It has been assumed that certain intangibles and other assets with nominal tax cost and a carrying value of approximately $381 have indefinite lives and accordingly, the associated future income tax liability is not expected to reverse until the assets are disposed of or become amortizable, resulting in the reporting of a future income tax liability of $50.
 
c) Provision For Income Taxes
 
Components of the provision for income taxes are as follows:

   
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30
 
June 30
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
2008
   
2007
 
Provision for income taxes before under noted items
  $ (57 )   $ (66 ) $ (9 )   $ (70 )
Disposal of Aeroplan units
    (146 )     -     (146 )     -  
Disposal of Jazz units
    (16 )     -     (34 )     -  
Valuation allowance
    (5 )     2     (20 )     2  
Provision for cargo investigation
Note 11
  -       -     -       -  
Special distribution of Aeroplan and Jazz units
    -       (11 )   -       (44 )
Interest expense
    -       -     -       (6 )
Provision for income taxes
  $ (224 )   $ (75 ) $ (209 )   $ (118 )

Refer to Note 5 for future income taxes recorded in other comprehensive income related to fuel derivatives designated under hedge accounting.
 
 
 
 
  23


 
 

 

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 


 
7. SHARE INFORMATION

 
The issued and outstanding common shares of ACE as at June 30, 2008, along with potential common shares, are as follows:

 
June 30
 
December 31
 
Outstanding shares (000)
2008
 
2007
 
Issued and outstanding
       
Class A variable voting shares
  25,807     82,229  
Class B voting shares
  9,100     23,709  
Total issued and outstanding
  34,907     105,938  
             
Potential common shares
           
Convertible preferred shares
  11,572     11,291  
Convertible senior notes
  13,133     12,210  
Stock options
  70     1,682  
Total potential common shares
  24,775     25,183  


Substantial Issuer Bid – January 2008
 
On January 10, 2008, ACE accepted for purchase and cancellation a total of 40,023,427 Class A Variable Voting Shares and 9,894,166 Class B Voting Shares at $30.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $1,498 in accordance with the terms of a substantial issuer bid.  No Convertible Preferred Shares of ACE were deposited on an as converted basis under the offer.
 
Upon purchase and cancellation by ACE of the Class A Variable Voting Shares and Class B Voting Shares, Share capital decreased by $115, Contributed surplus decreased by $228, and Retained earnings decreased by $1,155.
 
In connection with the share purchase and cancellation by ACE, the conversion rate of ACE's 4.25% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2035 was adjusted from 37.6879 to 39.0341 Class A variable voting shares or Class B voting shares per $1,000 principal amount of Convertible Senior Notes. The adjustment is effective January 11, 2008 and was determined in accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the Convertible Senior Notes.
 
Substantial Issuer Bid – June 2008
 
 
On June 18, 2008, ACE accepted for purchase and cancellation a total of 12,537,084 Class A Variable Voting Shares and 10,190,187 Class B Voting Shares at $22.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $500 in accordance with the terms of a substantial issuer bid.  No Convertible Preferred Shares of ACE were deposited on an as converted basis under the offer.
 
Upon purchase and cancellation by ACE of the Class A Variable Voting Shares and Class B Voting Shares, Share capital decreased by $65, Contributed surplus decreased by $101, and Retained earnings decreased by $334.
 
In connection with the share purchase and cancellation by ACE, the conversion rate of ACE's 4.25% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2035 was adjusted from 39.0341 to 40.6917 Class A variable voting shares or Class B voting shares per $1,000 principal amount of Convertible Senior Notes. The adjustment is effective June 19, 2008 and was determined in accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the Convertible Senior Notes.
 
 
 
  24

 

 
 

 

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 


 
8. SEGMENT INFORMATION

Composition of Business Segments
 
ACE has two reportable segments: Air Canada and Corporate Items and Eliminations (“CIE”).  During 2007 ACE had the following reportable segments: Air Canada, Aeroplan Limited Partnership (“Aeroplan”) up to March 14, 2007, Jazz Air LP (“Jazz”) up to May 24, 2007, ACTS LP (“ACTS”) up to October 16, 2007, and CIE.
 
CIE includes the corporate, financing and investing activities of ACE. ACE’s investments in Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS Aero were changed in 2007 from the consolidation to equity method of accounting reported under the CIE segment.  As of May 9, 2008 and February 7, 2008, ACE no longer equity accounts for Aeroplan (Note 5) and Jazz (Note 5), respectively, but distributions from Aeroplan and Jazz are recorded in the CIE segment.  CIE also includes certain consolidation adjustments related to revenue recognition differences amongst the operating segments. These consolidation adjustments are related to the timing of recognition and the presentation of revenue related to Aeroplan redemptions (up to March 14, 2007) and the timing of revenue recognition related to maintenance services provided by ACTS (completed contract basis of accounting for engine and component maintenance services, up to October 16, 2007) versus the expense recognition in Air Canada and Jazz, which is as the work is completed. In addition, consolidation adjustments were made related to the timing of revenue and expense recognition pertaining to power-by-the-hour contracts. Subsequent to the change in accounting for ACE’s investments in Aeroplan and ACTS, these consolidation adjustments are no longer recorded in CIE.  Future income taxes are recorded within the applicable taxable entities and are not allocated to non-taxable entities.
 
The Aeroplan consolidation adjustments recorded within CIE for the period when Aeroplan was consolidated related mainly to the revenue recognition timing difference from when Aeroplan records revenues, which is at the time a Mile is redeemed for travel, to the consolidated accounting policy of revenue recognition at the time reward transportation is provided. In addition, within the Aeroplan segment of the ACE consolidated financial statements, Aeroplan revenue from the redemption of Miles is recorded in Other revenue, whereas on the consolidated financial statements, Miles redeemed for travel on Air Canada and Jazz are recorded in Passenger revenue. This results in an elimination of certain Aeroplan Other revenue amounts within CIE to reflect the consolidated recognition of Aeroplan Miles redeemed for travel on Air Canada and Jazz within Passenger revenue. This also results in an adjustment to passenger revenue recorded within CIE. In the Aeroplan segment information, the cost to Aeroplan of purchasing rewards is recorded in other operating expenses.
 
Segment financial information has been prepared consistent with how financial information is produced internally for the purposes of making operating decisions. Segments negotiate transactions between each other as if they were unrelated parties.
 

 
 
 
 
  25



 
 

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
A reconciliation of the total amounts reported by each business segment to the applicable amounts in the consolidated financial statements follows:

 
Three Months Ended June 30
                                 
 
Air Canada
CIE
2008
Total
ACE
Air Canada
Aeroplan
Jazz
ACTS
 
CIE
 
2007*
Total
ACE
Passenger revenue
$
2,454
 $
-
 $
2,454
$
2,336
 $
  -
 $
  -
 $
  -
$
  -
$
2,336
Cargo revenue
 
139
 
-
 
139
 
135
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
135
Other revenue
 
189
 
1
 
190
 
128
 
-
 
1
 
56
 
3
 
188
External revenue
 
2,782
 
1
 
2,783
 
2,599
 
-
 
1
 
56
 
3
 
2,659
Inter-segment revenue
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
40
 
-
 
248
 
202
 
(490)
 
-
Total revenues
 
2,782
 
1
 
2,783
 
2,639
 
-
 
249
 
258
 
(487)
 
2,659
Wages, salaries and benefits
 
480
 
7
 
487
 
475
 
-
 
56
 
90
 
5
 
626
Aircraft fuel
 
848
 
-
 
848
 
636
 
-
 
54
 
-
 
(53)
 
637
Aircraft rent
 
69
 
-
 
69
 
75
 
-
 
22
 
-
 
(6)
 
91
Airport and navigation fees
 
255
 
-
 
255
 
257
 
-
 
33
 
-
 
(34)
 
256
Aircraft maintenance, materials and supplies
 
172
 
-
 
172
 
205
 
-
 
20
 
79
 
(183)
 
121
Communications and information technology
 
72
 
-
 
72
 
67
 
-
 
1
 
4
 
(3)
 
69
Food, beverages and supplies
 
81
 
-
 
81
 
78
 
-
 
2
 
-
 
1
 
81
Depreciation, amortization and obsolesence
 
173
 
(2)
 
171
 
136
 
-
 
4
 
11
 
(2)
 
149
Commissions
 
47
 
-
 
47
 
51
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
51
Capacity purchase with Jazz
 
233
 
-
 
233
 
232
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
(156)
 
76
Special charge for labour restructuring
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
6
 
-
 
6
Other
 
345
 
5
 
350
 
339
 
-
 
31
 
59
 
(29)
 
400
Total operating expenses
 
2,775
 
10
 
2,785
 
2,551
 
-
 
223
 
249
 
(460)
 
2,563
Operating income (loss) before under noted item
 
7
 
(9)
 
(2)
 
88
 
-
 
26
 
9
 
(27)
 
96
Provision for cargo investigation
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
Operating income (loss)
 
7
 
(9)
 
(2)
 
88
 
-
 
26
 
9
 
(27)
 
96
Interest income
 
15
 
8
 
23
 
23
 
-
 
1
 
-
 
4
 
28
Interest expense
 
(78)
 
(9)
 
(87)
 
(86)
 
-
 
(1)
 
(5)
 
(4)
 
(96)
Interest capitalized
 
8
 
-
 
8
 
28
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
28
Gain on disposal of assets
 
7
 
908
 
915
 
14
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
4
 
18
Gain (loss) on financial instruments recorded at fair value
 
176
 
-
 
176
 
(6)
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
(6)
Equity and other investment income
 
-
 
5
 
5
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
24
 
24
Other non-operating income (expense)
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
(6)
 
-
 
1
 
-
 
4
 
(1)
Non-controlling interest
 
(3)
 
(29)
 
(32)
 
(4)
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
(52)
 
(56)
Foreign exchange gain (loss)
 
48
 
-
 
48
 
160
 
-
 
-
 
(1)
 
(1)
 
158
Provision for income taxes
 
(58)
 
(166)
 
(224)
 
(56)
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
(19)
 
(75)
Segment income (loss)
$
      122
 $
708
 $
      830
$
    155
 $
      -
 $
   27
 $
     3
 $
   (67)
 $
   118
 

 
*Effective March 14, 2007, May 24, 2007, and October 16, 2007, the results and financial position of Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS, respectively, are not consolidated with ACE (Note 1).  ACTS Aero equity investment income is recorded within CIE prospectively from October 16, 2007.  Aeroplan and Jazz equity investment income is recorded up to May 9, 2008 and February 7, 2008 respectively. Subsequent to these effective dates, distribution income from Aeroplan and Jazz is recorded within CIE.  For the three months ending June 30, 2008, equity income of $2 relating to ACE’s equity investments is included in Equity and other investment income.
 
 
 
 
 
  26

 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 


 
 
Six Months Ended June 30
 
Air Canada
CIE
2008
Total
ACE
Air Canada
Aeroplan
Jazz
ACTS
 
CIE
 
2007*
Total
ACE
Passenger revenue
$
4,765
 $
       -
 $
4,765
$
4,473
 $
  -
 $
  -
 $
  -
$
  15
$
4,488
Cargo revenue
 
263
 
-
 
263
 
275
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
275
Other revenue
 
480
 
1
 
481
 
337
 
198
 
3
 
113
 
(130)
 
521
External revenue
 
5,508
 
1
 
5,509
 
5,085
 
198
 
3
 
113
 
(115)
 
5,284
Inter-segment revenue
 
1
 
(1)
 
-
 
94
 
3
 
610
 
398
 
(1,105)
 
-
Total revenues
 
5,509
 
-
 
5,509
 
5,179
 
201
 
613
 
511
 
(1,220)
 
5,284
Wages, salaries and benefits
 
961
 
22
 
983
 
974
 
17
 
139
 
176
 
18
 
1,324
Aircraft fuel
 
1,563
 
-
 
1,563
 
1,221
 
-
 
125
 
-
 
(124)
 
1,222
Aircraft rent
 
132
 
-
 
132
 
154
 
-
 
57
 
-
 
(16)
 
195
Airport and navigation fees
 
496
 
-
 
496
 
500
 
-
 
80
 
-
 
(81)
 
499
Aircraft maintenance, materials and supplies
 
375
 
-
 
375
 
429
 
-
 
50
 
158
 
(374)
 
263
Communications and information technology
 
145
 
-
 
145
 
138
 
7
 
2
 
8
 
(10)
 
145
Food, beverages and supplies
 
158
 
-
 
158
 
158
 
-
 
6
 
-
 
-
 
164
Depreciation, amortization and obsolesence
 
344
 
(4)
 
340
 
264
 
3
 
9
 
20
 
(1)
 
295
Commissions
 
100
 
-
 
100
 
110
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
110
Capacity purchase with Jazz
 
468
 
-
 
468
 
462
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
(386)
 
76
Special charge for labour restructuring
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
15
 
-
 
15
Other
 
772
 
6
 
778
 
759
 
134
 
83
 
122
 
(189)
 
909
Total operating expenses
 
5,514
 
24
 
5,538
 
5,169
 
161
 
551
 
499
 
(1,163)
 
5,217
Operating income (loss) before under noted item
 
(5)
 
(24)
 
(29)
 
10
 
40
 
62
 
12
 
(57)
 
67
Provision for cargo investigation
 
(125)
 
-
 
(125)
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
Operating income (loss)
 
(130)
 
(24)
 
(154)
 
10
 
40
 
62
 
12
 
(57)
 
67
Interest income
 
33
 
15
 
48
 
49
 
3
 
2
 
-
 
7
 
61
Interest expense
 
(159)
 
(24)
 
(183)
 
(177)
 
(3)
 
(3)
 
(10)
 
(26)
 
(219)
Interest capitalized
 
25
 
-
 
25
 
64
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
64
Gain (loss) on disposal of assets
 
(29)
 
990
 
961
 
21
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
4
 
25
Gain on financial instruments recorded at fair value
 
153
 
-
 
153
 
28
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
28
Equity and other investment income
 
-
 
17
 
17
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
27
 
27
Other non-operating income (expense)
 
(2)
 
1
 
(1)
 
(10)
 
(1)
 
1
 
-
 
9
 
(1)
Non-controlling interest
 
(6)
 
38
 
32
 
(6)
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
(73)
 
(79)
Foreign exchange gain (loss)
 
(41)
 
-
 
(41)
 
193
 
-
 
-
 
(1)
 
(1)
 
191
Provision for income taxes
 
(10)
 
(199)
 
(209)
 
(51)
 
-
 
-
 
-
 
(67)
 
(118)
Segment income (loss)
$
    (166)
 $
      814
 $
      648
 $
    121
 $
   39
 $
   62
 $
     1
 $
   (177)
 $
     46

 
 

 
*Effective March 14, 2007, May 24, 2007, and October 16, 2007, the results and financial position of Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS, respectively, are not consolidated with ACE (Note 1).  ACTS Aero equity investment income is recorded within CIE prospectively from October 16, 2007.  Aeroplan and Jazz equity investment income is recorded up to May 9, 2008 and February 7, 2008 respectively. Subsequent to these effective dates, distribution income from Aeroplan and Jazz is recorded within CIE.  For the six months ending June 30, 2008, equity  income of $12 relating to ACE’s equity investments is included in Equity and other investment income.
 
 
 
 
  27


 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 


Included within Depreciation, amortization and obsolescence is depreciation of property and equipment for Quarter 2, 2008, within the Air Canada segment of $161 (six months ending June 30, 2008 - $320).  This is broken down by segment for 2007 as follows; Air Canada $126 (six months ending June 30, 2007 - $244), Aeroplan nil (six months ending June 30, 2007 - nil), Jazz $4 (six months ending June 30, 2007 - $9), ACTS $3 (six months ending June 30, 2007 - $4), and CIE ($2) (six months ending June 30, 2007 – ($1)).
 
Geographic Information
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
June 30
 
June 30
 
Passenger revenues
2008
     
2007*
 
2008
     
2007*
 
                         
Canada
$ 1,076     $ 1,011   $ 1,998     $ 1,865  
US Transborder
  458       469     988       961  
Atlantic
  488       476     858       837  
Pacific
  242       237     447       450  
Other
  190       143     474       375  
  $ 2,454     $ 2,336   $ 4,765     $ 4,488  
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
June 30
 
June 30
 
Cargo revenues
2008
      2007 *
2008
      2007 *
                         
Canada
$ 27     $ 26   $ 50     $ 51  
US Transborder
  4       6     9       13  
Atlantic
  60       50     118       107  
Pacific
  36       43     64       83  
Other
  12       10     22       21  
  $ 139     $ 135   $ 263     $ 275  
 

*Effective May 24, 2007 the results and financial position of Jazz are not consolidated within ACE (Note 1).
 
Passenger and cargo revenues are based on the actual flown revenue for flights with an origin and destination in a specific country or region. Atlantic refers to flights that cross the Atlantic Ocean with origins and destinations principally in Europe. Pacific refers to flights that cross the Pacific Ocean with origins and destinations principally in Asia. Other passenger and cargo revenues refer to flights with origins and destinations principally in South America, South Pacific, and the Caribbean.  Other operating revenues are principally derived from customers located in Canada. Passenger revenues includes revenues from Aeroplan related to Aeroplan rewards net of purchase of Aeroplan miles of $30 for Quarter 2, 2008 ($70 for the six months ending June 30, 2008) and $29 for Quarter 2, 2007 ($62 for the six months ending June 30, 2007).
 
 
 
 
  28



 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

 
Segment Asset Information
 
 
June 30, 2008
 
         
 
Air Canada
 
CIE
 
Total
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 719   $ 762   $ 1,481  
Short-term investments
  778     66     844  
  $ 1,497   $ 828   $ 2,325  
Equity investment (ACTS Aero)
$ -   $ 82   $ 82  
Additions to capital assets – six months
$ 628   $ -   $ 628  
Total assets
$ 12,187   $ 614   $ 12,801  
 
 
   
December 31, 2007
 
       
   
Air Canada
   
CIE
   
Total
 
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 527     $ 1,773     $ 2,300  
Short-term investments
    712       127       839  
    $ 1,239     $ 1,900     $ 3,139  
Equity investments (Aeroplan, Jazz, ACTS Aero)
  $ -     $ (56 )   $ (56 )
Additions to capital assets (a) - 2007
  $ 2,596     $ -     $ 2,622  
Total assets
  $ 11,820     $ 1,934     $ 13,754  
 
 
(a) The consolidated total includes additions to capital assets of $10 for Jazz and $16 for ACTS, that were segments up to
      May 24, 2007 and October 16, 2007 respectively.

The total assets of CIE is net of the inter-company eliminations between segments and ACE.
 
 
 
 
  29


 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 



9. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 
At June 30, 2008 ACE holds a 75% ownership interest in Air Canada. Air Canada has various related party transactions with ACTS Aero, an ACE related entity.  Subsequent to the sale of Jazz units on January 24, 2008 and the termination of the Securityholders’ Agreement on February 7, 2008, ACE no longer exercised significant influence over Jazz. Refer to Note 13 – Capacity Purchase Agreement for a summary of transactions under the Jazz CPA. Subsequent to the sale on April 24, 2008 and the termination of the Securityholders’ Agreement on May 9, 2008, ACE no longer exercised significant influence over Aeroplan.
 
Related party trade balances, as outlined below, mainly arise from the provision of services, including the allocation of employee related costs.  Trade balances between the related parties have trade terms which generally require payment 30 days after receipt of invoice.
 
The related party balances resulting from the application of the related party agreements were as follows:

 
June 30
   
December 31
 
 
2008
   
2007
 
Accounts receivable
         
ACTS Aero (Air Canada)
$ 99     $ 99  
  $ 99     $ 99  
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
             
ACTS Aero (Air Canada)
$ 37     $ 88  
  $ 37     $ 88  

Refer to Note 13 – Jazz Capacity Purchase Agreement for transactions with Jazz. Up until October 15, 2007 the results and financial position of ACTS are consolidated within ACE (Note 8). The related party revenues and expenses with ACTS Aero are summarized as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
June 30
 
June 30
 
 
2008
 
2008
 
Revenues
       
Property rental revenues (ACTS Aero)
$ 9   $ 17  
Revenues from information technology services (ACTS Aero)
  4     7  
Revenues from corporate services and other (ACTS Aero)
  5     18  
  $ 18   $ 42  
Expenses
           
Maintenance expense for services from ACTS Aero
$ 134   $ 275  
Recovery of wages, salary and benefit expense for employees
           
assigned to ACTS Aero
  (68 )   (135 )
  $ 66   $ 140  
 
 
 
  30



 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
 
 
10. COMMITMENTS

The table below provides Air Canada’s current contractual obligations as at June 30, 2008 related to operating lease obligations and committed capital expenditures.

   
Remainder of
 2008
   
2009
   
2010
   
2011
   
2012
   
Thereafter
   
Total
 
Operating lease commitments
  $ 148     $ 300     $ 289     $ 226     $ 208     $ 718     $ 1,889  
Committed capital expenditures
    195       75       84       83       453       3,745       4,635  
    $ 343     $ 375     $ 373     $ 309     $ 661     $ 4,463     $ 6,524  

 
Boeing 787
 
 
Boeing has notified Air Canada that its first Boeing 787 aircraft originally scheduled for delivery in February 2010 is scheduled for delivery in January 2012, with additional deliveries, originally scheduled for completion between 2010 and 2014, being delayed by approximately two to two and a half years.  Air Canada’s capital expenditure projections, including the predelivery payments, have been amended to reflect this delay.
 
 
 
  31


 

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

 
11. CONTINGENCIES

Investigations by Competition Authorities Relating to Cargo
 
The European Commission, the United States Department of Justice and the Competition Bureau in Canada, among other competition authorities, are investigating alleged anti-competitive cargo pricing activities, including the levying of certain fuel surcharges, of a number of airlines and cargo operators, including Air Canada, a number of whom, including Air Canada, have received a statement of objections from the European Commission that sets out the European Commission's preliminary assessment in relation to such matter.  Air Canada has provided its reply to the statement of objections. Competition authorities have sought or requested information from Air Canada as part of their investigations. Air Canada is cooperating with these investigations, which are likely to lead to proceedings against Air Canada and a number of airlines and other cargo operators in certain jurisdictions. Air Canada is also named as a defendant in a number of class action lawsuits that have been filed before the United States District Court and in Canada in connection with these allegations.

During Quarter 1, 2008, Air Canada recorded a provision of $125 as a preliminary estimate.  This estimate is based upon the current status of the investigations and proceedings and Air Canada’s assessment as to the potential outcome for certain of them.  This provision does not address the proceedings in all jurisdictions, but only where there is sufficient information to do so.  Management has determined it is not possible at this time to predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of all proceedings.  Additional material provisions may be required.

 
 
  32




 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

 
12. CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

ACE is an investment holding company of aviation interests which include, as at June 30, 2008, a controlling interest in Air Canada, and a non-controlling interest in ACTS Aero.  ACE manages its capital at the parent company level separately from the capital of its subsidiary, Air Canada.  Each of the ACE and Air Canada Boards of Directors approves, the ACE or Air Canada objectives and policies for managing capital as the case may be.  For purposes of disclosure of capital management, the Corporation has provided separate information about ACE and Air Canada.  The ACE information is provided at the parent company level as if its investments were not consolidated and for Air Canada information is provided based on its consolidated financial statements.

ACE

ACE views capital as the sum of parent company debt consisting of convertible notes, convertible preferred shares, non-controlling interest and shareholders’ equity.  This definition of capital is used by management and may not be comparable to measures presented by other public companies.  Capital managed by ACE, summarized from the consolidated statement of financial position, follows:

 
June 30
   
December 31
 
 
2008
   
2007
 
           
Convertible senior notes*
$ 278     $ 273  
Convertible preferred shares*
  194       182  
Non-controlling interest
  724       757  
Shareholders' equity*
  2,087       3,217  
Capital
$ 3,283     $ 4,429  

* For accounting purposes, the convertible senior notes and convertible preferred shares are presented as compound instruments.  The carrying values ascribed to the holders’ conversion options within the senior notes and preferred shares, included in shareholders’ equity as at June 30, 2008, amount to $90 ($90 as at December 31, 2007) and $117 ($117 as at December 31, 2007), respectively.

ACE’s business strategy, to surface shareholder value and to return capital to its shareholders, has influenced its capital management objectives.

Consistent with ACE’s strategy to surface shareholder value, in the six months ended June 30, 2008, ACE sold the remaining 40.3 million trust units of Aeroplan Income Fund for net proceeds of $692, and realized a gain on disposal of $830 ($684 after tax).  ACE also sold the remaining 24.7 million trust units of Jazz Air Income Fund for net proceeds of $182 and realized a gain on disposal of $167 ($133 after tax).  As at June 30, 2008, ACE has retained ownership interests in Air Canada (75.0%) and ACTS (27.8%).  ACE no longer has any ownership interest in Aeroplan or Jazz.

During Quarter 2, 2008, ACE returned capital to its shareholders by way of a substantial issuer bid, wherein ACE completed the purchase and cancellation of 22.7 million common shares for an aggregate purchase price of $500.

During Quarter 1, 2008, ACE returned capital to its shareholders by way of a substantial issuer bid, wherein ACE completed the purchase and cancellation of 49.9 million common shares for an aggregate purchase price of $1,498.

As at June 30, 2008, ACE’s capital amounted to $3,283, a decline of $1,146 during the six months ended June 30, 2008  ($4,429 as at December 31, 2007) mainly due to the issuer bids. ACE unconsolidated cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments amounted to $828 ($1,900 as at December 31, 2007).
 
 
  33

 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

 
AIR CANADA

Air Canada views capital as the sum of long-term debt, non-controlling interest, capitalized operating leases and shareholders’ equity.  Air Canada currently has predelivery financing arranged, which is related to future deliveries, and as the aircraft have not yet been delivered, this debt is excluded from the capital base.  Air Canada includes capitalized operating leases, which is a measure commonly used in the industry ascribing a value to obligations under operating leases.  The value is based on annualized aircraft rent expense multiplied by 7.5, which is a factor commonly used in the airline industry.  The measure used may not necessarily reflect the fair value or net present value related to the future minimum lease payments as the measure is not based on the remaining contractual payments and the factor may not recognize discount rates implicit in the actual leases or current rates for similar obligations with similar terms and risks.  This definition of capital is used by management and may not be comparable to measures presented by other public companies.

Air Canada also monitors its ratio of adjusted net debt to net debt plus shareholders’ equity. Adjusted net debt is calculated as the sum of long-term debt, non-controlling interest and capitalized operating leases less cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments.

Air Canada's main objectives when managing capital are:

§  
to structure repayment obligations in line with the expected life of Air Canada’s principal revenue generating assets;

§  
to ensure Air Canada has access to capital to fund Air Canada’s fleet renewal and refurbishment program and to ensure adequate cash levels to withstand deteriorating economic conditions that may arise;

§  
to maintain an appropriate balance between debt supplied capital versus investor supplied capital as measured by the adjusted net debt to net debt plus equity ratio; and

§  
to maintain Air Canada’s credit ratings to facilitate access to capital markets at competitive interest rates.

In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, Air Canada may adjust the type of capital utilized, including purchase versus lease decisions, defer or cancel aircraft expenditures by not exercising available options or selling current aircraft options and issuing debt or equity securities, all subject to market conditions and the terms of the underlying third party agreements.

 
  34


 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

AIR CANADA

Air Canada’s total capital as at June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007 is calculated as follows:

 
June 30
   
December 31
 
 
2008
   
2007
 
           
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations
$ 3,863     $ 4,006  
Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations
  396       413  
    4,259       4,419  
Non-controlling interest
  190       184  
Capitalized operating leases
  1,950       2,115  
Less predelivery financing included in long-term debt
  (135 )     (521 )
Adjusted debt and non-controlling interest
  6,264       6,197  
Shareholders' equity
  2,467       2,443  
Total Capital
$ 8,731     $ 8,640  
               
Adjusted debt and non-controlling interest
$ 6,264     $ 6,197  
Less cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments
  (1,497 )     (1,239 )
Adjusted net debt and non-controlling interest
$ 4,767     $ 4,958  
               
Adjusted net debt to adjusted net debt plus shareholders' equity ratio
  65.9 %     67.0 %

The improvement from December 31, 2007 in the ratio is attributable, in part, to the increase in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments recorded during the six months ended June 30, 2008.

 
  35


 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

 
13. JAZZ CAPACITY PURCHASE AGREEMENT

Air Canada and Jazz are parties to the Jazz CPA pursuant to which Air Canada purchases substantially all of Jazz’s fleet capacity based on predetermined rates, in addition to reimbursing Jazz, without mark-up, for certain pass-through costs as defined in the Jazz CPA which include fuel, airport and user fees and other. The fees include both a variable component that is dependent on Jazz aircraft utilization and a fixed component and are recorded in the applicable category within the operating expenses in the results of Air Canada.  Refer to Note 22 – Related Party Transactions in the 2007 annual consolidated financial statements of the Corporation for further details regarding the Jazz CPA.  Up until May 24, 2007, the results of Jazz are consolidated within ACE (Note 1).

The following table outlines CPA and pass-through costs for the period:

 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
June 30
 
June 30
 
 
2008
   
2007
 
2008
   
2007
 
                     
Expenses from CPA with Jazz
$ 233     $ 232   $ 468     $ 462  
Pass through fuel expense from Jazz
  115       81     208       152  
Pass through airport expense from Jazz
  50       52     100       99  
Pass through other expense from Jazz
  6       7     21       20  
  $ 404     $ 372   $ 797     $ 733  
 
 
  36

 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
 
14. RECONCILIATION OF CANADIAN GAAP TO UNITED STATES GAAP

The consolidated financial statements of the Corporation have been prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (“Canadian GAAP”) which differ in certain respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“US GAAP”). The following table represents the significant reconciling items between US GAAP and Canadian GAAP. For a complete discussion of US and Canadian GAAP differences, refer to Note 23 to the 2007 annual consolidated financial statements of ACE.

 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
June 30
 
June 30
 
(Canadian dollars in millions except per share data)
2008
   
2007
 
2008
   
2007
 
                     
Income for the period in accordance with Canadian GAAP
$ 830     $ 118   $ 648     $ 46  
Convertible securities (2)
  5       30     72       109  
Derivative financial instruments (3)
  163       16     275       41  
Distributions
  -       (5 )   -       9  
Stock-based compensation
  -       (1 )   -       (2 )
Aircraft leases
  (1 )     (1 )   (2 )     (2 )
Amortization of intangible assets (4)
  (7 )     (1 )   (13 )     (3 )
Post-employment benefits (6)
  (4 )     17     (4 )     14  
Pension and post-retirement benefits (5)
  1       -     1       -  
Sale of Jazz Air Income Fund units (8)
  6       -     12       -  
Sale of Aeroplan Income Fund units (7)
  (87 )     -     (87 )     -  
Non-controlling interest (10)
  (26 )     (5 )   (44 )     (8 )
Income adjustments for the period before the following
  50       50     210       158  
Income tax adjustment
  (33 )     2     (66 )     27  
Respective period income adjustments in accordance with US GAAP
  17       52     144       185  
Income for the period in accordance with US GAAP
$ 847     $ 170   $ 792     $ 231  
Total comprehensive income for the period in accordance with Canadian GAAP
$ 870     $ 110   $ 836     $ 48  
Respective period income adjustments in accordance with US GAAP
  17       52     144       185  
Defined benefit pension plans: (a) (5)
                           
     Net actuarial (loss) gain arising during the period
  (173 )     703     (173 )     703  
     Amortization of net actuarial loss included in net periodic
     pension cost
  1       1     1       3  
     Jazz Air Income Fund defined benefit pension plans (8)
  -       -     2       -  
Net change in unrealized gain on Jazz Air Income Fund (8)
  (6 )     -     -       -  
Derivative financial instruments (a) (3)
  (111 )     (10 )   (188 )     (24 )
Total comprehensive income for the period in accordance with US GAAP
$ 598     $ 856   $ 622     $ 915  
Earnings per share – US GAAP (11)
                           
- Basic
$ 15.69     $ 1.60   $ 13.57     $ 2.14  
- Diluted
$ 10.96     $ 1.38   $ 9.77     $ 1.99  

(a)  
All items in Other Comprehensive Income are shown net of tax.
 
 
  37

 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

 
   
June 30
   
December 31
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
Deferred charges
           
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 49     $ 51  
Aircraft leases
    (9 )     (6 )
Convertible securities (2)
    5       6  
Deferred finance charges
    45       42  
Balance under US GAAP
  $ 90     $ 93  
                 
Intangible assets
               
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 660     $ 647  
Goodwill (4)
    890       889  
Balance under US GAAP
  $ 1,550     $ 1,536  
                 
Deposits and other assets
               
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 650     $ 527  
Pension asset adjustment (5)
    308       293  
Investment in Jazz Air Income Fund (8)
    -       (14 )
Investment in ACTS
    10       10  
Balance under US GAAP
  $ 968     $ 816  
                 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
               
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 1,183     $ 1,249  
Tax adjustment – Pension (5)
    (64 )     -  
Tax adjustment – Other
    (7 )     -  
Pension liability adjustment (5)
    (90 )     (90 )
Convertible notes – embedded derivative (2)
    -       47  
Balance under US GAAP
  $ 1,022     $ 1,206  
                 
Current portion of long-term debt and capital leases
               
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 396     $ 686  
Convertible securities (2)
    -       17  
Balance under US GAAP
  $ 396     $ 703  
                 
Long-term debt and capital leases
               
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 4,141     $ 4,006  
Convertible securities (2)
    14       -  
Deferred finance charges
    45       42  
Balance under US GAAP
  $ 4,200     $ 4,048  
                 
Convertible preferred shares
               
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 194     $ 182  
Reclassification of convertible preferred shares (2)
    (194 )     (182 )
Balance under US GAAP
  $ -     $ -  
                 
Future income taxes
               
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 50     $ 50  
Goodwill (4)
    112       112  
Balance under US GAAP
  $ 162     $ 162  

 
Certain items as at December 31, 2007 have been reclassified to conform to the current quarter’s presentation.
 
 
  38


 
 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
 
   
June 30
   
December 31
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
Pension and other benefit liabilities
           
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 1,738     $ 1,824  
Pension and post-retirement liability adjustment (5)
    97       (154 )
Pension and post-retirement liability adjustment - early measurement date (5)
    13       -  
Pension adjustment due to valuation allowance (5)
    (2 )     (1 )
Post-employment benefits (6)
    (82 )     (86 )
Post-employment benefits - early measurement date (6)
    4       -  
Balance under US GAAP
  $ 1,768     $ 1,583  
                 
Other long-term liabilities
               
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 511     $ 483  
Convertible preferred shares – embedded derivative (2)
    60       81  
Convertible notes – embedded derivative (2)
    9       -  
Investment in Aeroplan Income Fund (7)
    -       (87 )
Balance under US GAAP
  $ 580     $ 477  
                 
Non-controlling interest
               
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 724     $ 757  
Earnings allocation to non-controlling interest (10)
    57       17  
Additional non-controlling interest – Air Canada
    202       202  
Balance under US GAAP
  $ 983     $ 976  
                 
Temporary equity
               
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ -     $ -  
Reclassification of convertible preferred shares (2)
    229       219  
Balance under US GAAP
  $ 229     $ 219  

 
Certain items as at December 31, 2007 have been reclassified to conform to the current quarter’s presentation.
 
 
  39



 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008

 
   
June 30
   
December 31
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
Shareholders’ equity
           
Share capital and other equity
           
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 307     $ 450  
Reclassification of convertible preferred shares and convertible notes (2)
    (207 )     (207 )
Future income tax
    (19 )     (19 )
Goodwill recorded at fresh-start (4)
    1,596       1,596  
Distributions
    (7 )     (7 )
Labour related provisions
    (23 )     (23 )
Substantial issuer bids (9)
    (1,052 )     -  
Balance of Share capital and other equity under US GAAP
  $ 595     $ 1,790  
                 
Contributed surplus
               
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 170     $ 504  
Deconsolidation of Aeroplan
    (260 )     (260 )
Distributions
    (33 )     (33 )
Redemption of convertible notes
    (1 )     (1 )
Substantial issuer bids (9)
    199       -  
Balance of Contributed surplus under US GAAP
  $ 75     $ 210  
                 
Retained earnings
               
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 1,368     $ 2,209  
Convertible securities (2)
    (67 )     (57 )
Substantial issuer bids (9)
    853       -  
Change in pension and post-retirement measurement date (5)
    (13 )     -  
Change in pension and post-retirement measurement date – Non-controlling interest
    3       -  
Change in post-employment measurement date (6)
    (4 )     -  
Change in post-employment measurement date - Non-controlling interest
    1       -  
Current year income adjustments
    144       203  
Cumulative prior year adjustments:
               
     Stock-based compensation
    -       6  
     Future income tax
    54       24  
     Goodwill
    (94 )     (94 )
     Intangible asset amortization
    (39 )     (11 )
     Derivative financial instruments
    88       (30 )
     Pension and post-retirement benefits
    1       -  
     Post-employment benefits
    65       48  
     Aircraft leases
    (7 )     (3 )
     Distributions
    13       4  
     Labour related provisions
    23       23  
     Jazz dilution gain
    (41 )     (41 )
     Air Canada dilution gain
    (202 )     (202 )
     Convertible securities
    90       (45 )
     Secondary offering of Aeroplan units
    (48 )     -  
     Secondary offering of Jazz units
    30       -  
     Monetization of ACTS
    (31 )     -  
     Non-controlling interest
    (20 )     -  
Balance of Retained earnings under US GAAP
  $ 2,167     $ 2,034  

 
Certain items as at December 31, 2007 have been reclassified to conform to the current quarter’s presentation.
 
 
  40


 
 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
 
   
June 30
   
December 31
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income
           
Balance under Canadian GAAP
  $ 242     $ 54  
Current year adjustments to comprehensive income (a):
               
     Defined benefit pension plans: (5)
               
               Net actuarial (loss) gain arising during the period
    (173 )     484  
               Amortization of net actuarial loss included in net periodic pension cost
    1       3  
               Jazz Air Income Fund defined benefit pension plans (8)
    2       7  
     Derivative financial instruments (3)
    (188 )     (82 )
Cumulative prior year adjustments to comprehensive income (a):
               
     Minimum pension liability adjustment
            (90 )
     Pension and post-retirement adjustment
    270       (127 )
     Jazz Air Income Fund defined benefit pension plans
    (2 )     (9 )
     Derivative financial instruments (3)
    (56 )     26  
Balance of Accumulated other comprehensive income under US GAAP
  $ 96     $ 266  
Balance of Shareholders’ equity under US GAAP
  $ 2,933     $ 4,300  

 
 (a) All items in Other Comprehensive Income are shown net of tax.
 
Certain items as at December 31, 2007 have been reclassified to conform to the current quarter’s presentation.
 
 
  41



 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
 

1.
Fair Value Measurements

In September 2006, the FASB issued FASB Statement 157 Fair Value Measurements (“FAS 157”), which is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and for interim periods within those years. The statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. Beginning in fiscal year 2008, the Corporation has elected to partially adopt FAS 157 in accordance with FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-2, which delays the effective date of FAS 157 to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. This applies to all non-recurring fair value measurements of non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a nonrecurring basis. This includes those measured at fair value in goodwill impairment testing, asset retirement obligations initially measured at fair value, exit and disposal costs initially measured at fair value, and those initially measured at fair value in a business combination.

The implementation of FAS 157 for financial assets and financial liabilities, effective January 1, 2008, did not have a material impact on the Corporation’s consolidated financial position and results of operations. The Corporation is currently assessing the impact of FAS 157 for non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities on its consolidated financial position and results of operations.

         
 
Fair value measurements at reporting date using
 
   
June 30
2008
   
 
Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets
(Level 1)
   
Significant other observable inputs
(Level 2)
   
Significant unobservable inputs
(Level 3)
 
                         
Financial Assets
                       
Held-for-trading securities
                       
     Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 1,481     $ -     $ 1,481     $ -  
     Short-term investments
    844       -       844       -  
     Restricted cash
    42       -       42       -  
     Deposits and other assets
                               
          Restricted cash
    91       -       91       -  
          Asset backed commercial
                               
          paper
    29       -       -       29  
                                 
Derivative instruments
                               
Fuel derivatives (1)
     37        -       37       -  
     Foreign exchange derivatives
    1       -       1       -  
     Interest rate swaps
    7       -       7       -  
Total
  $ 2,532     $ -     $ 2,503     $ 29  

 
(1) The fuel derivatives above exclude fuel derivatives designated as hedges under Canadian GAAP which have a fair value of $463 derived using significant other observable inputs (level 2).
 
 
 
 
  42



 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
 
         
Fair value measurements at reporting date using
 
   
June 30
2008
   
Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
   
Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
   
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
 
                         
Financial Liabilities
                       
Derivative instruments
                       
     Cross-currency interest rate
     swaps
  $ 13     $ -     $ 13     $ -  
     Convertible preferred shares -
     embedded derivative
    60       -       -       60  
     Convertible notes - embedded
     derivative
    9       -       -       9  
Total
  $ 82     $ -     $ 13     $ 69  


2.
Convertible securities


Preferred Shares

Under Canadian GAAP, the convertible preferred shares issued in 2004 are presented as a compound instrument. At the date of issuance, the value ascribed to the holder’s conversion option, which is presented in Share capital and other equity was $123 less allocated fees of $6; the value ascribed to the financial liability was $127. Under US GAAP, the convertible preferred shares contain an embedded derivative which has been reported separately as an Other long-term liability at its fair value of $60 as at June 30, 2008 ($81 as at December 31, 2007). The convertible preferred shares were initially recorded at $162 which is the proceeds received less direct costs of issuance and the fair value of the embedded derivative, as of the date of issuance, and is included in Temporary equity as the conditions of redemption are not solely within the control of the Corporation. The adjustment to Convertible preferred shares reflects applying the direct costs of issuance, recorded against the Convertible preferred shares under Canadian GAAP since January 1, 2007, against the amount recorded in Temporary equity.
 
For the convertible preferred shares, the changes in the fair value of the embedded derivative are included in income and the accretion of the temporary equity to the redemption value over the period to redemption is reflected as a charge to Retained earnings. The change in the fair value of the embedded derivative includes the 5% accretion per annum on the convertible preferred shares.
 
The adjustment to Income reflects the change in fair value of the embedded derivative and the reversal of interest expense under Canadian GAAP and the adjustment to Retained earnings reflects the accretion of the temporary equity to the redemption value.

Convertible Notes

Under Canadian GAAP, the convertible notes issued in 2005 are presented as a compound instrument. At the date of issuance, the value ascribed to the holders’ conversion option, which is presented in Share capital and other equity, was $94 less allocated fees of $2; the value ascribed to the financial liability was $236.
 
Under US GAAP the convertible notes were initially recorded at $260 which is the proceeds received before costs of issuance and the fair value of the embedded derivative, as of the date of issuance of $70. The direct costs of issuance of $11 are recorded in deferred charges. The adjustment also reflects a decrease to the liability related to the fair value of the embedded derivative and reduction to interest expense. The embedded derivative is reported as Other long-term liabilities at its fair value of $9 as at June 30, 2008 (reported as Accounts payable and accrued liabilities, $47 as at December 31, 2007).
 
 
  43


 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
 

The summary impact of the convertible securities to the reconciliation of Canadian GAAP to US GAAP is as follows:
 
Three months ended June 30
 
 
Preferred shares
Convertible notes
 
 
2008
 
2007
2008
 
2007
 
Gain (loss) on change in fair value of the embedded
derivative
$ (17 )   $ 27 $ 20     $ (3 )
Credit / (Debit) to interest expense
  6       5   (4 )     1  
Total
$ (11 )   $ 32 $ 16     $ (2 )

 
Six months ended June 30
 
 
Preferred shares
 
Convertible notes
 
 
2008
 
2007
 
2008
 
2007
 
Gain (loss) on change in fair value of the embedded
derivative
$ 21     $ 95   $ 38     $ 2  
Credit to interest expense
  11       10     2       2  
Total
$ 32     $ 105   $ 40     $ 4  


3.
Financial instruments & hedge accounting

Under Canadian GAAP, the Corporation has designated its fuel derivatives as cash flow hedges while under US GAAP, the Corporation has elected not to designate its fuel derivatives as cash flow hedges.

The adjustment reflects the reclassification of the “Net gains on fuel derivatives under hedge accounting” under Canadian GAAP of $173 (net of tax of $82) for the three months and $273 (net of tax of $128) for the six months ended June 30, 2008; and the “Reclassification of net realized (gains) losses on fuel derivatives to income” under Canadian GAAP of $62 (net of tax of $30) for the three months and $85 (net of tax of $41) for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from OCI to earnings. The transitional adjustment to the new Canadian GAAP standards adopted January 1, 2007 is reversed under US GAAP. On January 1, 2007, the adjustment under US GAAP is an increase to the fair value of outstanding fuel derivatives of $18, an increase to accumulated other comprehensive income of $26, a decrease to retained earnings of $5 and a decrease to non-controlling interest of $3.
 

4.
Fresh start reporting and goodwill

Under Canadian GAAP, upon emergence from creditor protection, the identifiable assets and liabilities of an enterprise are revalued based on the fair values of such assets and liabilities in a manner similar to that used for a business combination. The difference between the fair value of the Corporations’ equity over the fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities is not permitted to be recorded as an asset (goodwill) under Canadian GAAP. US GAAP does not prohibit the recognition of goodwill to the extent that the reorganization value exceeds the fair value of the specific tangible and identifiable intangibles of the Corporation. The resulting goodwill under US GAAP is not amortized and is subject to an impairment test on an annual basis or earlier if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the respective reporting unit below the carrying amount.

Under Canadian GAAP, the benefit of future income tax assets that exist at fresh start, and for which a valuation allowance is recorded against, will be recognized first to reduce to nil any remaining intangible assets (on a pro-rata basis) that were recorded upon fresh start reporting with any remaining amount as a credit to shareholders’ equity. Under US GAAP the benefit of future income tax assets that exist at fresh start will be recognized first to reduce to nil any goodwill, then intangibles with any remaining amount taken to income.


5.
Pension and post-retirement benefits

In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued FASB Statement 158 Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, an amendment of FASB Statements
 
 
  44


 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
 
No. 87, 88, 106, and 132 (R) (“FAS 158”). FAS 158 requires an employer to (i) recognize the overfunded or underfunded status of a defined benefit plan (other than a multiemployer plan) as an asset or liability with changes in that funded status recognized through comprehensive income; and (ii) measure the funded status of a plan as of the year-end date. FAS 158 also specifies additional disclosure requirements.
 
Funded status

The US GAAP requirement to initially recognize the funded status of a defined benefit plan and to provide the required disclosures was effective as of the end of the fiscal year ending after December 15, 2006.
 
The US GAAP adjustment is to recognize the funded status of benefit plans in the balance sheet by aggregating overfunded plans separately from underfunded plans and recording the resulting amounts as an asset and a liability, respectively. The current portion of the liability represents the amount by which the actuarial present value of benefits included in the benefit obligation payable in the next twelve months exceeds the fair value of plan assets. The actuarial gains or losses and past service costs or credits that arise during the period are recognized as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax. Under Canadian GAAP, these amounts are not recorded on the balance sheet until the period in which they affect earnings. Furthermore, under Canadian GAAP, the current portion of the liability represents the past service contributions for the Domestic Registered Plans scheduled to be paid in the next twelve months.

For the three months and six months ended June 30, 2008, the adjustment under US GAAP is a decrease to other comprehensive income of $172 (net of tax of $64), an increase to deposits and other assets of $15 and an increase to pension and other benefit liabilities of $251.

Change in measurement date

The US GAAP requirement to measure plan assets and benefit obligations as of the date of the employer's fiscal year-end statement of financial position is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2008 and has been adopted in the first quarter of 2008 through opening retained earnings. The implementation of the change in measurement date to December 31 resulted in an increase to pension and other benefit liabilities offset by a decrease to opening retained earnings of $13 (due to Pension benefit plans of $7 and Post-retirement benefit plans of $6).

Limit on carrying value of accrued benefit asset

In addition to the above adjustment relating to the recognition of the funded status of a defined benefit plan, under Canadian GAAP, when a defined benefit plan gives rise to an accrued benefit asset, an entity should recognize a valuation allowance for any excess of the adjusted benefit asset over the expected future benefit. The accrued benefit asset should be presented on the entity's balance sheet net of the valuation allowance. A change in the valuation allowance should be recognized in income for the period in which the change occurs. Under US GAAP, the recognition of a valuation allowance is not permitted. Included in the adjustment is the reversal of the valuation allowance recognized under Canadian GAAP.

 
45 



 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

Components of US GAAP net periodic cost of defined benefit plans

The components of US GAAP net periodic cost of defined benefit plans include the following:

 
Three months ended June 30
 
 
Pension Benefits
   
Other Benefits
 
 
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
                       
Service cost
$ 53     $ 64     $ 17     $ 16  
Interest cost
  178       164       13       12  
Expected return on plan assets
  (206 )     (193 )     -       -  
Amortization or recognition of experience (gains) losses
  2       2       -       (22 )
Total
$ 27     $ 37     $ 30     $ 6  


 
Six months ended June 30
 
 
Pension Benefits
   
Other Benefits
 
 
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
                       
Service cost
$ 103     $ 127     $ 34     $ 37  
Interest cost
  351       327       26       25  
Expected return on plan assets
  (412 )     (386 )     -       -  
Amortization or recognition of experience (gains) losses
  2       4       (4 )     (22 )
Total
$ 44     $ 72     $ 56     $ 40  

As of June 30, 2008 the Corporation had contributed $154 to its defined benefit pension plans. The Corporation expects to contribute an additional $302 during the remainder of 2008.


6.
Post-employment benefits

Under Canadian GAAP, the actuarial gains and losses related to post-employment benefits, which are non-accumulating, are amortized over the average expected period that the benefits will be paid. Under US GAAP, the actuarial gains and losses related to post-employment benefits, which are non-accumulating, are included in income in the period that they arise.

The implementation of the change in measurement date to December 31 resulted in an increase to pension and other benefit liabilities offset by a decrease to opening retained earnings of $4 due to post-employment benefit plans.
 
 
  46



 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
 
7.
Sale of Aeroplan Income Fund units

As described in Note 5 of the of the Quarter 2 2008 interim unaudited consolidated financial statements of ACE, on April 21, 2008 ACE sold a total of 20.4 million trust units of AIF at a price of $17.50 per unit representing total net proceeds to ACE of $343 and realized a gain on sale of $413 ($340 after tax) under Canadian GAAP.

On June 2, 2008, ACE sold the remaining trust units of AIF for total net proceeds to ACE of $349, and realized a gain on sale of $417 ($344 after tax) under Canadian GAAP.

The accounting is the same under US and Canadian GAAP. The difference that arises is due to a difference in the US GAAP carrying value of the Aeroplan investment.

The April 21, 2008 US GAAP adjustment is a decrease to the gain on sale of $44 offset by an increase to the negative investment of $44 which results in a realized gain on sale of $369 under US GAAP.

The June 2, 2008 US GAAP adjustment is a decrease to the gain on sale of $43 offset by an increase to the negative investment of $43 which results in a realized gain on sale of $374 under US GAAP.


8.
Sale of Jazz Air Income Fund units

As described in Note 5 of the of the Quarter 2 2008 interim unaudited consolidated financial statements of ACE, on January 24, 2008 ACE sold a total of 13 million trust units of JAIF at a price of $7.45 per unit representing total net proceeds to ACE of $97 and realized a gain on sale of $89 ($71 net of taxes) under Canadian GAAP.
 
On June 2, 2008, ACE sold its remaining trust units of JAIF for total net proceeds to ACE of $85, and realized a gain on sale of $78 ($62 net of taxes). Net realized gains of $65, net of tax of $14, were taken into income from OCI under Canadian GAAP.

The accounting is the same under US and Canadian GAAP. The difference that arises is due to a difference in the US GAAP carrying value of the Jazz investment.

The January 24, 2008 US GAAP adjustment is an increase to the gain on sale of $6, an increase to the Jazz investment of $7 and an increase in OCI of $1.  The adjustments result in a realized gain on sale of $95 under US GAAP.

With the reduction of the ownership interest below 20% and the termination of the Securityholders’ Agreement on February 7, 2008, ACE no longer had significant influence over Jazz. The US GAAP adjustment is an increase to the Jazz investment of $1 offset by an increase in OCI of $1.

The equity investment ACE had in Jazz was classified as available-for-sale and unrealized period changes in fair value were recorded in OCI.  The adjustment to fair value recorded in OCI amounted to $71, net of tax of ($15) under Canadian GAAP during Quarter 1, 2008. The Quarter 1 2008 US GAAP adjustment is an increase to the Jazz investment of $6 offset by an increase in OCI of $6.

The June 2, 2008, US GAAP adjustment is an increase to the gain on sale of $6 offset by a decrease in OCI of $6.

 
  47



 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
 
9.
Substantial Issuer Bids

Substantial Issuer Bid – January 2008
 
As described in Note 7 of the of the Quarter 2 2008 interim unaudited consolidated financial statements of ACE, on January 10, 2008, ACE accepted for purchase and cancellation a total of 40,023,427 Class A Variable Voting Shares and 9,894,166 Class B Voting Shares at $30.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $1,498 in accordance with the terms of a substantial issuer bid.
 
Upon purchase and cancellation by ACE of the Class A Variable Voting Shares and Class B Voting Shares, Share capital decreased by $115, Contributed surplus decreased by $228, and Retained earnings decreased by $1,155 under Canadian GAAP.
 
The accounting is the same under US and Canadian GAAP. The difference that arises is due to a difference in carrying value of the US GAAP shareholder’s equity.

The US GAAP adjustment is a decrease to share capital of $729, an increase to contributed surplus of $138 and an increase to retained earnings of $591.

Substantial Issuer Bid – June 2008
 
On June 18, 2008, ACE accepted for purchase and cancellation a total of 12,537,084 Class A Variable Voting Shares and 10,190,187 Class B Voting Shares at $22.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $500 in accordance with the terms of a substantial issuer bid.
 
Upon purchase and cancellation by ACE of the Class A Variable Voting Shares and Class B Voting Shares, Share capital decreased by $65, Contributed surplus decreased by $101, and Retained earnings decreased by $334.
 
As described above, the accounting is the same under US and Canadian GAAP. The difference that arises is due to a difference in carrying value of the US GAAP shareholder’s equity.

The US GAAP adjustment is a decrease to share capital of $323, an increase to contributed surplus of $61 and an increase to retained earnings of $262.


10.
Non-controlling interest

The non-controlling interest adjustment reflects the deduction made in the amount of the 25% non-controlling interest's proportion of Air Canada's income or loss adjustments as ACE holds a 75% direct ownership interest in Air Canada.
 
 
  48


 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 


 
11.
Earnings per share

 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
June 30
 
June 30
 
(Canadian dollars in millions except per share data)
2008
   
2007
 
2008
   
2007
 
                     
Numerator:
                   
     Numerator for basic earnings per share:
                   
          Income for the year
$ 847     $ 170   $ 792     $ 231  
          Accretion of convertible preferred shares (a)
  (5 )     (5 )   (10 )     (10 )
          Adjusted numerator for earnings per share
  842       165     782       221  
     Effect of potential dilutive securities:
                           
          Convertible preferred shares (b)
  5       5     10       10  
          Convertible notes (b)
  6       6     7       12  
     Add back anti-dilutive impact
  -             -       (12 )
     Adjusted earnings for diluted earnings per share
$ 853     $ 176   $ 799     $ 231  
                             
Denominator:
                           
     Denominator for basic earnings per share:
                           
          Weighted-average shares
  54       103     58       103  
     Effect of potential dilutive securities:
                           
          Convertible preferred shares
  11       11     11       11  
          Convertible notes
  13       11     13       10  
          Stock options
  -       2     -       2  
     Add back anti-dilutive impact
  -             -       (10 )
     Adjusted weighted-average shares for diluted earnings per share
  78       127     82       116  
Basic earnings per share
$ 15.69     $ 1.60   $ 13.57     $ 2.14  
Diluted earnings per share
$ 10.96     $ 1.38   $ 9.77     $ 1.99  

(a)  
Income is reduced by the accretion of the convertible preferred shares under US GAAP to obtain income available to common shareholders.

(b)  
The adjustment to the numerator under US GAAP is different than the adjustment to the numerator under Canadian GAAP due to the difference in the value recorded at inception as described in item 2 and the difference in accretion rates.


12.
Recently issued accounting standards effective in the period

Fair Value Measurements

In September 2006, the FASB issued FASB Statement 157 Fair Value Measurements (“FAS 157”), which is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and for interim periods within those years. The statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. Beginning in fiscal year 2008, the Corporation has elected to partially adopt FAS 157 in accordance with FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-2, which delays the effective date of FAS 157 to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. This applies to all non-recurring fair value measurements of non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a nonrecurring basis. This includes those measured at fair value in goodwill impairment testing, asset retirement obligations initially measured at fair value, exit and disposal costs initially measured at fair value, and those initially measured at fair value in a business combination.

The implementation of FAS 157 for financial assets and financial liabilities, effective January 1, 2008, did not have a material impact on the Corporation’s consolidated financial position and results of operations. The Corporation is currently assessing the impact of FAS 157 for non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities on its consolidated financial position and results of operations.
 
 
49 


 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 
 
Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities

In February 2007, the FASB issued FASB Statement 159 The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“FAS 159”), which permits an entity to measure certain financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value. Under FAS 159, entities that elect the fair value option will report unrealized gains and losses in earnings at each subsequent reporting date. The fair value option may be elected on an instrument-by-instrument basis, with few exceptions, as long as it is applied to the instrument in its entirety. FAS 159 became effective in Q1 2008 however the Corporation has decided not to adopt the fair value option for any of its existing financial instruments.


13.
Recently issued accounting standards

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

In March 2008, the FASB issued FASB Statement 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 (“FAS 161”), which amends the disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and hedging activities. FAS 161 requires additional disclosures about how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under Statement 133 and its related interpretations, and how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. FAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. The adoption of this standard in Q1 2009 will not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations. The Corporation is in the process of evaluating the disclosure impacts of this standard.

Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets

In April 2008, the FASB issued FSP FAS 142-3 Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets (“FSP FAS 142-3”) which amends the list of factors an entity should consider in developing renewal or extension assumptions used in determining the useful life of recognized intangible assets under Statement 142. The new guidance applies to (1) intangible assets that are acquired individually or with a group of other assets and (2) intangible assets acquired in both business combinations and asset acquisitions.

FSP FAS 142-3 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years. While the guidance on determining the useful life of a recognized intangible asset must be applied prospectively only to intangible assets acquired after the FSP’s effective date, the disclosure requirements of the FSP must be applied prospectively to all intangible assets recognized as of, and after, the FSP FAS 142-3’s effective date. Early adoption is prohibited.

The Corporation is currently evaluating the effects, if any, that FSP FAS 142-3 may have on its financial statements.

Accounting for Convertible Debt Instruments That May Be Settled in Cash upon Conversion (Including Partial Cash Settlement)

In May 2008, the FASB issued FSP APB 14-1, Accounting for Convertible Debt Instruments That May Be Settled in Cash upon Conversion (Including Partial Cash Settlement) (“FSP APB 14-1”) which addresses the accounting for convertible debt securities that, upon conversion, may be settled by the issuer fully or partially in cash (i.e. if the investor elects to convert, the issuer has the right to pay some or all of the conversion value in cash rather than to settle the conversion value fully in shares).

FSP APB 14-1 clarifies the accounting for convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash upon conversion and specifies that issuers of such instruments should separately account for the liability and equity components in a manner that will reflect the entity’s nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized in subsequent periods.

FSP APB 14-1 does not change the accounting for more traditional types of convertible debt securities that do not have a cash settlement feature. Also, FSP APB 14-1 does not apply if, under existing GAAP for derivatives, the embedded conversion feature must be accounted for separately from the rest of the instrument.
 
 
    50


 
 

 

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
Quarter 2 2008
 

FSP APB 14-1 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2008. FSP APB 14-1 should be applied retrospectively to all past periods presented — even if the instrument has matured, has been converted, or has otherwise been extinguished as of FSP APB 14-1’s effective date.

The Corporation is currently evaluating the effects, if any, that FSP APB 14-1 may have on its financial statements.

Determining Whether an Instrument (or an Embedded Feature) Is Indexed to an Entity’s Own Stock

In June 2008, the Emerging Issues Task Force issued EITF Issue No. 07-5 Determining Whether an Instrument (or an Embedded Feature) Is Indexed to an Entity’s Own Stock (“EITF 07-5”).

The instruments affected by this Issue may contain contract terms that call into question whether the instrument or embedded feature is indexed to the entity’s own stock. A derivative instrument or embedded derivative feature that is deemed indexed to an entity’s own stock may be exempt from the requirements of Statement 133 for derivatives. In addition, a freestanding instrument that is indexed to a company’s own stock remains eligible for equity classification under Issue 00-19.

The consensus addresses the following issues:

§  
How an entity should evaluate whether an instrument (or embedded feature) is indexed to its own stock.

§  
How the currency in which the strike price of an equity-linked financial instrument (or embedded equity-linked feature) is denominated affects the determination of whether the instrument is indexed to an entity’s own stock.

§  
How an issuer should account for market-based employee stock option valuation instruments.

The consensus is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2008. The consensus must be applied to outstanding instruments as of the beginning of the fiscal year in which the Issue is adopted as a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings for that fiscal year. Early application is not permitted.

The Corporation is currently evaluating the effects, if any, that EITF 07-5 may have on its financial statements.
 
 
  51


 

 
Document 2
 

 

 














Quarter 2 2008
Management’s Discussion and
Analysis of Results of Operations
and Financial Condition









 





August 8, 2008
 
 
 

 
 Table of Contents
 
Preface
1
   
 
Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information
2
   
 
Industry Interests
3
   
 
Significant Events
4
   
 
Accounting Policies
5
   
 
Results of Operations – Quarter 2 2008
8
     
Air Canada
11
Corporate Items and Eliminations (“CIE”)
12
     
Results of Operations – First Six Months of 2008
13
     
Air Canada
16
Corporate Items and Eliminations (“CIE”)
17
     
Financial and Capital Management
18
     
8.1.
Analysis of Financial Position
18
8.2.
Air Canada Revolving Credit Facility
19
8.3.
Consolidated Cash flows
19
8.4.
Contractual Obligations
21
8.5.
Air Canada Pension Funding Obligations
21
8.6.
Air Canada Capital Expenditures and Related Financing Arrangements
22
8.7.
Air Canada Fleet
23
8.8.
Capital Management
24
8.9.
Share Information
25
     
Related Party Transactions
26
     
Financial Instruments and Risk Management
27
     
Risk Factors
31
     
Quarterly Financial Information
32
     
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
33
     
Controls and Procedures
33
     
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
33
     
Glossary of Terms
35
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
1.    Preface  
 
ACE Aviation Holdings Inc. (“ACE”), which was incorporated on June 29, 2004, is a holding company of aviation interests.  During the first six months of 2008, ACE had two reportable segments:  Air Canada and CIE.  During 2007, in addition to Air Canada and CIE, ACE had the following additional reportable segments: Aeroplan Limited Partnership (“Aeroplan”) up to March 14, 2007, Jazz Air LP (“Jazz”) up to May 24, 2007 and ACTS LP (“ACTS”) up to October 16, 2007.

ACE is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) where its Class A variable voting shares and Class B voting shares are traded under the symbols ACE.A and ACE.B, respectively.

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition (“MD&A”) for Quarter 2 2008 should be read in conjunction with ACE’s unaudited interim consolidated financial statements and notes for Quarter 2 2008 and its annual audited consolidated financial statements and notes and annual MD&A for 2007.  Reference to “Corporation” in this MD&A refers to, as the context may require, ACE and its aviation interests collectively, ACE and one or more of its aviation interests, one or more of ACE’s aviation interests, or ACE itself.  Except where the context otherwise requires, all monetary amounts are stated in Canadian dollars.  For an explanation of certain terms used in this MD&A, refer to section 16 “Glossary of Terms”.  Except as otherwise noted, this MD&A is current as of August 8, 2008.

Certain comparative figures have been reclassified to conform to the financial statement presentation adopted in the current period.  

The ACE Audit, Finance & Risk Committee has reviewed this MD&A and the Quarter 2 2008 unaudited interim consolidated financial statements and notes and ACE’s Board of Directors approved these documents prior to their release.  For further information on ACE’s public disclosure file, including ACE’s Annual Information Form, please consult SEDAR at www.sedar.com, EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml or ACE’s website at www.aceaviation.com.
 
 
 
1
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
 2.    Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information
 
ACE’s communications often contain written or oral forward-looking statements which are included in the MD&A and may be included in filings with securities regulators in Canada and the United States.  These forward-looking statements are identified by the use of terms and phrases such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “could”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “plan”, “predict”, “project”, “will”, “would”, and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions.  Such statements may involve but are not limited to comments with respect to strategies, expectations, planned operations or future actions.

Forward-looking statements, by their nature, are based on assumptions and are subject to important risks and uncertainties.  Any forecasts or forward-looking predictions or statements cannot be relied upon due to, amongst other things, changing external events and general uncertainties of the business.  Results indicated in forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results for a number of factors, including without limitation, energy prices, general industry, market and economic conditions, war, terrorist acts, changes in demand due to the seasonal nature of the business, the ability to reduce operating costs and employee counts, employee relations, labour negotiations or disputes, pension issues, currency exchange and interest rates, changes in laws, adverse regulatory developments or proceedings, pending litigation and actions by third parties as well as the factors identified throughout this MD&A and, in particular, those identified in  the “Risk Factors” section of ACE’s 2007 MD&A dated February 7, 2008 and section 11 of this MD&A.  The forward-looking statements contained in this discussion represent ACE’s expectations as of the date of this MD&A, and are subject to change after such date.  However, ACE disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations.
 
 
 
2
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
 3.    Industry Interests
 
The following is a listing of ACE’s aviation interests as at August 8, 2008.

 
Aviation Interests
Ownership
 
 Air Canada
 (TSX: AC.A, AC.B)
 
Air Canada is Canada's largest domestic and international airline and the largest provider of scheduled passenger services in the Canadian market, the Canada - US transborder market and in the international market to and from Canada.  Wholly-owned subsidiaries of Air Canada include:
 
 
75.0 %
 
 · 
AC Cargo Limited Partnership ("Air Canada Cargo") which, together with Air Canada, are Canada's largest provider of air cargo services.
 
 
 
·
ACGHS Limited Partnership ("Air Canada Ground Handling Services") which is a passenger and ground handling service provider.
 
 
 
·
Touram Limited Partnership ("Air Canada Vacations") which is a major Canadian tour operator offering leisure travel packages.
 
 
 
 ACTS Aero
 
ACTS Aero is a full-service aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul organization that competes on a global basis.  (see Section 4)
 
 
27.8 %
 
 
 
3
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
 4.    Significant Events
 
The following significant events occurred during the period January 1, 2008 to August 7, 2008.

Substantial Issuer Bid – January 2008
On January 10, 2008, ACE accepted for purchase and cancellation a total of 40,023,427 Class A variable voting shares and 9,894,166 Class B voting shares at $30.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $1,498 million, in accordance with the terms of a substantial issuer bid.  No convertible preferred shares of ACE were deposited on an as converted basis under the offer.
 
Jazz
On January 24, 2008, ACE sold 13,000,000 units of Jazz Air Income Fund on an exempt trade basis to certain funds and accounts managed by West Face Capital Inc. and to Sunrise Partners Limited Partnership at a price of $7.45 per unit representing total net proceeds to ACE of $97 million.

On June 2, 2008, ACE completed the sale in the market of a total of 11,726,920 units of Jazz Air Income Fund for total net proceeds to ACE of $85 million.  ACE retains no further interest in Jazz Air Income Fund after that date.

Aeroplan
On April 21, 2008, ACE completed the sale of 20,400,000 units of Aeroplan Income Fund at a price of $17.50 per unit, for total net proceeds to ACE of $343 million.

On June 2, 2008, ACE completed the sale in the market of a total of 19,892,088 units of Aeroplan Income Fund for total net proceeds to ACE of $349 million.  ACE retains no further interest in Aeroplan Income Fund after that date.

ACTS Aero
On January 14, 2008, cash proceeds of $40 million, representing the full balance of funds held in escrow on closing of the monetization of ACTS on October 16, 2007, were received by ACE.
 
In June 2008, an entity related to Grupo TACA exercised its put option and sold its 5% equity interest in ACTS Aero to ACE for $19 million (US$18 million), increasing ACE’s ownership interest in ACTS Aero from 22.8% to 27.8%.

Substantial Issuer Bid – June 2008
On June 18, 2008, ACE accepted for purchase and cancellation a total of 12,537,084 Class A variable voting shares and 10,190,187 Class B voting shares at $22.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $500 million, in accordance with the terms of a substantial issuer bid. No convertible preferred shares of ACE were deposited on an as converted basis under the offer.
 
 
 
4
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
 5.    Accounting Policies
 
ACE prepares its consolidated financial statements in accordance with Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”).

Significant accounting policies and methods used in preparation of ACE’s Quarter 2 2008 unaudited interim consolidated financial statements are described in Note 2 to ACE’s 2007 audited consolidated financial statements.

ACE’s results reflect the consolidation of Aeroplan only up to March 14, 2007, the consolidation of Jazz only up to May 24, 2007 and the consolidation of ACTS only up to October 16, 2007.  After those dates, ACE’s investments in Aeroplan (up to May 9, 2008), ACTS Aero, and Jazz (up February 7, 2008) are accounted for using the equity method.  From May 9, 2008 for Aeroplan and from February 7, 2008 for Jazz, through to June 1, 2008, ACE’s investments in these entities were classified as “available-for-sale” investments.  Effective June 2, 2008, ACE no longer had an ownership interest in Aeroplan and Jazz.  As a result of the above-noted changes, ACE’s results of operations for 2008 are not directly comparable to its operating results for 2007.

The preparation of ACE’s consolidated financial statements in conformity with Canadian GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosures of contingent liabilities and reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the period of the consolidated financial statements.  ACE evaluates these estimates and assumptions on a regular basis, based on historical experience and other relevant factors.  Actual amounts could differ materially from those estimates and assumptions.  For a description of critical accounting estimates utilized in the preparation of ACE‘s consolidated financial statements, see “Critical Accounting Estimates” in ACE’s 2007 MD&A dated February 7, 2008.  There were no significant changes to ACE’s critical accounting estimates from those disclosed at that time.

Accounting for Aeroplan
As a result of ACE's special distribution of Aeroplan Income Fund units and the conversion of its remaining units of Aeroplan LP into units of Aeroplan Income Fund on March 14, 2007, for the period March 14, 2007 to May 9, 2008, ACE no longer consolidated the results of operations, assets and liabilities and cash flows of Aeroplan and accounted for its investment using the equity method of accounting.  With the reduction of the ownership interest below 20% and the termination of the Securityholders’ Agreement between ACE and Aeroplan Income Fund on May 9, 2008, for the period May 9, 2008 to June 1, 2008, ACE no longer equity accounted for Aeroplan and ACE’s investment in Aeroplan was classified as an “available-for-sale” investment under financial instruments.  Unrealized period changes in fair value were recorded in “other comprehensive income” and distributions from Aeroplan Income Fund were recorded in “equity and other investment income” in non-operating expense income (expense) on ACE’s consolidated statement of operations.  On June 2, 2008, ACE completed the sale its remaining units of Aeroplan Income Fund.  ACE retains no ownership interest in Aeroplan.

With the reduction of the ownership interest below 20% and the termination of the Securityholders’ Agreement between ACE and Aeroplan Income Fund on May 9, 2008, ACE no longer had significant influence over Aeroplan.

Accounting for Jazz
As a result of the special distribution of Jazz Air Income Fund units on May 24, 2007, ACE no longer consolidated the results of operations, assets and liabilities and cash flows of Jazz after that date and accounted for its investment from May 24, 2007 to February 7, 2008 using the equity method of accounting.  Subsequent to ACE’s sale of Jazz Air Income Fund units on January 24, 2008 and the termination of the Securityholders’ Agreement between ACE and Jazz Air Income Fund on February 7, 2008, for the period February 7, 2008 to June 1, 2008, ACE no longer equity accounted for Jazz and ACE’s investment in Jazz was classified as an “available-for-sale” investment under financial instruments.  Unrealized period changes in fair value were recorded in “other comprehensive income” and distributions from Jazz Air Income Fund were recorded in “equity and other investment income” in non-operating expense income (expense) on ACE’s consolidated statement of operations.  On June 2, 2008, ACE completed the sale of its remaining units of Jazz Air Income Fund.   ACE retains no ownership interest in Jazz.
 
 
 
5
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
Accounting for ACTS
As a result of the monetization of ACTS on October 16, 2007, ACE no longer consolidates the results of operations, assets and liabilities and cash flows of ACTS after that date and accounts for its investment using the equity method of accounting.

Changes in Accounting Policies

Capital Disclosures and Financial Instruments – Presentation and Disclosure
Effective January 1, 2008, the Corporation adopted three new CICA accounting standards: section 1535, Capital Disclosures, section 3862, Financial Instruments – Disclosures and section 3863, Financial Instruments – Presentation.

Section 1535 establishes disclosure requirements about an entity’s capital and how it is managed. The purpose is to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the entity’s objectives, policies and processes for managing capital.

Sections 3862 and 3863 replace section 3861, Financial Instruments – Disclosure and Presentation, revising and enhancing its disclosure requirements in certain areas, and carrying forward unchanged its presentation requirements. These new sections place increased emphasis on disclosures about the nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments and how the entity manages those risks.  Refer to section 10 of this MD&A for information on the Corporation’s financial instruments.

For additional information on these new accounting standards, refer to sections 8.8 and 10 of this MD&A.

Inventories
Effective January 1, 2008, the Corporation adopted CICA section 3031, Inventories, which replaced section 3030, Inventories. Section 3031 provides more extensive guidance on measurement, and expands disclosure requirements to increase transparency.  The Corporation’s accounting policy for aircraft fuel inventory is consistent with the measurement requirements in the new standard and, as a result, no adjustment was recorded on the transition, however, additional disclosures have been included in ACE’s interim unaudited consolidated financial statements commencing in Quarter 1 2008.

Future Accounting Standard Changes
In February 2008, the CICA issued section 3064, Goodwill and Intangible Assets, which provides guidance on the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure for goodwill and intangible assets, other than the initial recognition of goodwill or intangible assets acquired in a business combination.  The standard is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after October 1, 2008, and requires retroactive application to prior period financial statements. The Corporation is in the process of evaluating the impact of this new standard for adoption on January 1, 2009.

In February 2008, the Canadian Accounting Standards Board confirmed January 1, 2011 as the changeover date for Canadian publicly accountable enterprises to start using International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. IFRS uses a conceptual framework similar to Canadian GAAP, but there are significant differences in recognition, measurement and disclosures.
 
As a result, the Corporation is developing a plan to convert its consolidated financial statements to IFRS. The plan addresses the impact of IFRS on:

·  
Accounting policies and implementation decisions
·  
Information technology and data systems
·  
Internal control over financial reporting
·  
Disclosure controls and procedures
·  
Financial reporting expertise
·  
Business activities

The Corporation has established a cross-functional IFRS team and is providing training to key employees.
 
 
 
6
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
The Corporation is currently in the process of assessing the differences between IFRS and the Corporation’s current accounting policies, as well as the alternatives available on adoption. This assessment includes the impact of conversion on information technology and data systems, internal control over financial reporting, disclosure controls and procedures and business activities. Changes in accounting policies are likely.  These changes may materially impact the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements.
 
 
 
7
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
 6.    Results of Operations – Quarter 2 2008
 
The following table reflects the results of the Corporation, the results of its reportable segments and certain non-GAAP measures for Quarter 2 2008.  Segment information has been prepared consistent with how financial information is produced internally for the purposes of making business decisions.

   
Quarter 2 2008
 
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
Air Canada
   
CIE
   
ACE Total
 
Operating revenue
                 
Passenger revenue
  $ 2,454     $ -      $ 2,454  
Cargo revenue
    139       -       139  
Other revenue
    189       1       190  
      2,782       1       2,783  
Operating expenses
                       
Wages, salaries and benefits
    480       7       487  
Aircraft fuel
    848       -       848  
Aircraft rent
    69       -       69  
Airport and navigation fees
    255       -       255  
Aircraft maintenance, materials, and supplies
    172       -       172  
Communications and information technology
    72       -       72  
Food, beverages and supplies
    81       -       81  
Depreciation, amortization and obsolescence
    173       (2 )     171  
Commissions
    47       -       47  
Capacity purchase with Jazz
    233       -       233  
Other operating expenses
    345       5       350  
      2,775       10       2,785  
Operating income (loss)
    7       (9 )     (2 )
Non-operating income (expense)
                       
Interest income
    15       8       23  
Interest expense
    (78 )     (9 )     (87 )
Interest capitalized
    8       -       8  
Gain on disposal of assets
    7       908       915  
Gain on financial instruments recorded at fair value
    176       -       176  
Equity and other investment income (1) (2)
    -       5       5  
Other non-operating income
    -       -       -  
      128       912       1,040  
Income before the following items
    135       903       1,038  
Non-controlling interest
    (3 )     (29 )     (32 )
Foreign exchange gain
    48       -       48  
Provision for income taxes
    (58 )     (166 )     (224 )
Income for the period
    122       708       830  
                         
EBITDAR/EBITDA (3)
  $ 249     $ (11 )    $ 238  

(1)  
Reflects ACE’s investment in Aeroplan (from April 1, 2008 to May 9, 2008) and ACTS Aero (for Quarter 2 2008) using the equity method of accounting.
(2)  
Reflects distributions from Aeroplan Income Fund from May 10, 2008 to June 2008 and from Jazz Air Income Fund from April 1, 2008 to June 2008.
(3)  
Refer to section 15 "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" in this MD&A for a reconciliation of EBITDAR to operating income (loss).
 
 
 
8
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
The following table reflects the results of the Corporation, the results of its reportable segments and certain non-GAAP measures for Quarter 2 2007.

   
Quarter 2 2007
 
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
Air Canada
   
Jazz (1)
   
ACTS
   
CIE
   
ACE Total
 
Operating revenue
                             
Passenger revenue
  $ 2,336     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 2,336  
Cargo revenue
    135       -       -       -       135  
Other revenue
    128       1       56       3       188  
External revenue
    2,599       1       56       3       2,659  
Inter-segment revenue
    40       248       202       (490 )     -  
      2,639       249       258       (487 )     2,659  
                                         
Operating expenses
                                       
Wages, salaries and benefits
    475       56       90       5       626  
Aircraft fuel
    636       54       -       (53 )     637  
Aircraft rent
    75       22       -       (6 )     91  
Airport and navigation fees
    257       33       -       (34 )     256  
Aircraft maintenance, materials, and supplies
    205       20       79       (183 )     121  
Communications and information technology
    67       1       4       (3 )     69  
Food, beverages and supplies
    78       2       -       1       81  
Depreciation, amortization and obsolescence
    136       4       11       (2 )     149  
Commissions
    51       -       -       -       51  
Capacity purchase with Jazz
    232       -       -       (156 )     76  
Special charge for labour restructuring
    -       -       6       -       6  
Other operating expenses
    339       31       59       (29 )     400  
      2,551       223       249       (460 )     2,563  
                                         
Operating income (loss)
    88       26       9       (27 )     96  
                                         
Non-operating income (expense)
                                       
Interest income
    23       1       -       4       28  
Interest expense
    (86 )     (1 )     (5 )     (4 )     (96 )
Interest capitalized
    28       -       -       -       28  
Gain on disposal of assets
    14       -       -       4       18  
Loss on financial instruments recorded at fair value
    (6 )     -       -       -       (6 )
Equity and other investment income (2)
    -       -       -       24       24  
Other non-operating income (expense)
    (6 )     1       -       4       (1 )
      (33 )     1       (5 )     32       (5 )
                                         
Income before the following items
    55       27       4       5       91  
                                         
Non-controlling interest
    (4 )     -       -       (52 )     (56 )
Foreign exchange gain (loss)
    160       -       (1 )     (1 )     158  
Provision for income taxes
    (56 )     -       -       (19 )     (75 )
Income (loss) for the period
  $ 155     $ 27     $ 3     $ (67 )   $ 118  
EBITDAR/EBITDA (3)
  $ 299     $ 52     $ 20     $ (35 )   $ 336  

(1)  
Reflects the consolidation of Jazz results from April 1, 2007 to May 23, 2007.
(2)  
Reflects ACE’s investment in Aeroplan (for Quarter 2 2007) and Jazz (from May 24, 2007 to June 30, 2007) using the equity method of accounting.
(3)  
Refer to section 15 "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" in this MD&A for a reconciliation of EBITDAR/EBITDA to operating income (loss).
 
 
 
9
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
ACE’s results of operations for Quarter 2 2008 are not directly comparable to its operating results for Quarter 2 2007.  Refer to section 5 of this MD&A for additional information on the changes in accounting relating to Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS Aero.

ACE recorded an operating loss of $2 million in Quarter 2 2008 compared to operating income of $96 million in Quarter 2 2007.  Air Canada reported operating income of $7 million in Quarter 2 2008 compared to operating income of $88 million in Quarter 2 2007, a decrease of $81 million from Quarter 2 2007.  An increase in operating revenues at Air Canada of $143 million or 5% was more than offset by a fuel expense increase of $212 million or 33% versus Quarter 2 2007.  ACE’s consolidated results for Quarter 2 2007 included operating income from Jazz and ACTS of $26 million and $9 million, respectively.

EBITDAR of $238 million was recorded in Quarter 2 2008 compared to EBITDAR of $336 million in the same period in 2007. In Quarter 2 2008, Air Canada recorded EBITDAR of $249 million compared to EBITDAR of $299 million in the same period in 2007, a decrease of $50 million from Quarter 2 2007.  In Quarter 2 2007, Jazz and ACTS recorded EBITDAR of $52 million and $20 million, respectively.

ACE recorded operating revenues of $2,783 million and operating expenses of $2,785 million in Quarter 2 2008.  In the same period in 2007, ACE recorded operating revenues of $2,659 million and operating expenses of $2,563 million.  As a result of the deconsolidation of Jazz and ACTS, ACE’s Quarter 2 2008 operating revenues and expenses are not directly comparable to its operating revenues and expenses for Quarter 2 2007.

Non-operating income amounted to $1,040 million in Quarter 2 2008 compared to non-operating expense of $5 million in Quarter 2 2007.  Included in Quarter 2 2008 were gains on ACE’s sale of Aeroplan Income Fund units amounting to $830 million and a gain on ACE’s sale of Jazz Air Income Fund units of $78 million.

Gains on financial instruments recorded at fair value amounted to $176 million in Quarter 2 2008 compared to losses on financial instruments of $6 million in Quarter 2 2007.  Refer to section 10 of this MD&A for additional information on financial instruments.

Equity and other investment income of $5 million was recorded in Quarter 2 2008 compared to equity and other investment income of $24 million in Quarter 2 2007. A decrease in equity and other investment income for Aeroplan and Jazz was mainly driven by a reduction in ACE’s ownership interest in these entities. In Quarter 2 2007, ACTS’ operating results were consolidated within ACE’s operating results.  Refer to section 5 of this MD&A for additional information on changes in accounting policies.

Non-controlling interest of $32 million was recorded in Quarter 2 2008 versus non-controlling interest of $56 million in Quarter 2 2007, a decrease of $24 million from Quarter 2 2007.  The reduction in non-controlling interest mainly reflected a deterioration in operating results for Air Canada and a change in accounting methodology for Jazz.

Net gains on foreign currency monetary items amounted to $48 million in Quarter 2 2008 versus gains of $158 million in Quarter 2 2007.   The gain in Quarter 2 2008 was mainly attributable to a stronger Canadian dollar at June 30, 2008 compared to March 31, 2008.  The June 30, 2008 noon day exchange rate was $1US = Cdn $1.0186 while the March 31, 2008 noon day exchange rate was $1US = Cdn $1.0279.

ACE recorded a provision for income taxes of $224 million in Quarter 2 2008 on pre-tax income of $1,054 million, mainly related to the gains on disposal of Aeroplan and Jazz units.  ACE recorded a provision for income taxes of $75 million for the same period in 2007 on a pre-tax income of $193 million.

Net income in Quarter 2 2008 amounted to $830 million or $10.76 per diluted share.  Net income in Quarter 2 2007 amounted to $118 million or $0.98 per diluted share.  The net income in Quarter 2 2008 included the significant gains on disposal of the remaining units of Aeroplan Income Fund and Jazz Air Income Fund.
 
 
 
10
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
6.1.     Air Canada
 
In Quarter 2 2008, Air Canada reported operating income of $7 million compared to operating income of $88 million in Quarter 2 2007, a decrease of $81 million.  An increase in operating revenues of $143 million or 5% was more than offset by a fuel expense increase of $212 million or 33%.

In Quarter 2 2008, EBITDAR amounted to $249 million compared to EBITDAR of $299 million in the same period in 2007, a decrease of $50 million.

Passenger revenues increased $118 million or 5.1% to $2,454 million in Quarter 2 2008 due to growth in both system traffic and yield.  System yield improved 2.5% reflecting higher fares and increased fuel surcharges to partially offset higher fuel prices.  An increase in the proportion of higher-yielding business travelers, reflecting in part, the attractiveness of Air Canada’s new Executive First product, was also a factor in the yield growth.  RASM increased 2.6% due to the growth in yield.  Traffic grew 2.4% on a capacity increase of 2.4%, resulting in a passenger load factor unchanged from Quarter 2 2007. All markets reflected traffic growth with the exception of the US transborder market.  Traffic in the US transborder market decreased 7.7% on a capacity reduction of 5.8%.  Overall, the US transborder market was negatively impacted by the softening economy in the United States.  A stronger Canadian dollar in Quarter 2 2008, which lowers the Canadian dollar value of sales in foreign countries, had a negative impact on foreign currency denominated revenues, accounting for a decrease of $61 million to Quarter 2 2008 passenger revenues.

Operating expenses were $2,775 million in Quarter 2 2008, an increase of $224 million or 9% from Quarter 2 2007, reflecting a significant increase in fuel expense.  Excluding the fuel expense increase of $212 million in Quarter 2 2008, operating expenses increased only $12 million, when compared to the same period in 2007, on a capacity increase of 2.4%.

Including fuel expense, CASM increased 6.3% from Quarter 2 2007.  Excluding fuel expense, CASM declined 1.7% from Quarter 2 2007.  The airline is aggressively managing the costs of all controllable parts of its operation and continues in its efforts to mitigate the significant increase in its fuel expense.  Unit cost reductions were recorded in all major categories with the exception of fuel expense, ownership costs and communications and information technology expenses.  The stronger Canadian dollar versus the US dollar, unit cost savings related to the Boeing 777 aircraft and other cost reductions programs were among the more important factors in the overall unit cost decrease, excluding fuel expense, from Quarter 2 2007.  The higher unit cost of ownership reflects Air Canada’s investment in new aircraft and the aircraft interior refurbishment program.
 
Non-operating income amounted to $128 million in Quarter 2 of 2008 compared to non-operating expense of $33 million in Quarter 2 2007. Gains relating to fair value adjustments on derivatives instruments amounted to $176 million in Quarter 2 2008 versus losses of $6 million in the same quarter of 2007.  Refer to section 10 of this MD&A for additional information on Air Canada’s derivative instruments.  Net interest expense increased $20 million over Quarter 2 2007.  A lower amount of capitalized interest related to new aircraft and a decrease in interest income due to lower cash balances more than offset the $8 million decrease in interest expense.  Air Canada recorded gains amounting to $7 million pertaining to the sale of aircraft-related inventory in Quarter 2 2008.  In Quarter 2 2007,  Air Canada recorded a gain on disposal of $14 million from insurance proceeds relating to a CRJ-100 aircraft owned by Air Canada and leased to Jazz which was damaged beyond repair.
 
Net gains on foreign currency monetary items amounted to $48 million in Quarter 2 2008 versus gains of $160 million in Quarter 2 2007.   The gain in Quarter 2 2008 was mainly attributable to a stronger Canadian dollar at June 30, 2008 compared to March 31, 2008.  The June 30, 2008 noon day exchange rate was $1US = Cdn $1.0186 while the March 31, 2008 noon day exchange rate was $1US = Cdn $1.0279.

Air Canada recorded a provision for income taxes of $58 million in Quarter 2 2008, representing an effective income tax rate of 32%, compared to a provision for income taxes of $56 million, at an effective income tax rate of 27%, for the same period in 2007.  The 2007 effective income tax rate was favourably impacted by the capital portion of certain foreign exchange gains which were tax-effected at 50% of the income tax rate and which were higher in Quarter 2 2007 compared to the same period in 2008.
 
 
 
11
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
Segment income of $122 million was recorded in Quarter 2 2008 compared to segment income of $155 million recorded in Quarter 2 2007.
 
6.2. Corporate Items and Eliminations (“CIE”)
 
CIE includes the corporate, financing and investing activities of ACE.  As a result of the change in the accounting for ACE’s investment in Aeroplan, effective March 14, 2007, certain consolidation adjustments relating to Aeroplan are no longer recorded in CIE.  As previously discussed, the accounting for ACE’s investment in ACTS Aero was changed during October 2007 from consolidation to the equity method of accounting reported under the CIE segment.  Up until the time of deconsolidating ACTS Aero, the CIE segment also included certain consolidation adjustments related to revenue recognition differences for maintenance services provided by ACTS (completed contract basis of accounting for engine and component maintenance services versus the expense recognition basis in Air Canada and Jazz, which is as the work is completed).  In addition, consolidation adjustments were previously made related to the timing of revenue and expense recognition pertaining to power-by-the-hour contracts.  Subsequent to the change in the accounting for ACE’s investment in ACTS, these consolidation adjustments are no longer required.

CIE recorded an operating loss of $9 million in Quarter 2 2008 compared to an operating loss of $27 million in Quarter 2 2007.  Negative EBITDAR of $11 million was recorded in Quarter 2 2008 compared to negative EBIDTAR of $35 million in Quarter 2 2007.

Equity and other investment income of $5 million was recorded in Quarter 2 2008 compared to equity and other investment income of $24 million in Quarter 2 2007, a decrease of $19 million.

Non-controlling interest of $29 million was recorded in Quarter 2 2008 versus non-controlling interest of $52 million in Quarter 2 2007, a decrease of $23 million from Quarter 2 2007.

In Quarter 2 2008, ACE realized a gain of $413 million ($340 million after tax) on the sale of 20,400,000 units of Aeroplan Income Fund in April 2008, a gain of $417 million ($344 million after tax) on the sale of 19,892,088 units of Aeroplan Income Fund in June 2008 and a gain of $78 million ($62 million after tax) on the sale of 11,726,920 units of Jazz Air Income Fund in June 2008.  Effective June 2, 2008, ACE no longer retains any ownership interest in Aeroplan and Jazz.
 
 
 
12
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
 7.    Results of Operations – First Six Months of 2008
 
The following table reflects the results of the Corporation, the results of its reportable segments and certain non-GAAP measures for the first six months of 2008.  Segment information has been prepared consistent with how financial information is produced internally for the purposes of making business decisions.

   
First Six Months of 2008
 
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
Air Canada
   
CIE
   
ACE Total
 
Operating revenue
                 
Passenger revenue
  $ 4,765     $ -       $ 4,765  
Cargo revenue
    263       -       263  
Other revenue
    480       1       481  
External revenue
    5,508       1       5,509  
Inter-segment revenue
    1       (1 )     -  
      5,509       -       5,509  
Operating expenses
                       
Wages, salaries and benefits
    961       22       983  
Aircraft fuel
    1,563       -       1,563  
Aircraft rent
    132       -       132  
Airport and navigation fees
    496       -       496  
Aircraft maintenance, materials, and supplies
    375       -       375  
Communications and information technology
    145       -       145  
Food, beverages and supplies
    158       -       158  
Depreciation, amortization and obsolescence
    344       (4 )     340  
Commissions
    100       -       100  
Capacity purchase with Jazz
    468       -       468  
Other operating expenses
    772       6       778  
      5,514       24       5,538  
Operating loss before under-noted item
    (5 )     (24 )     (29 )
Provision for cargo investigations
    (125 )     -       (125 )
Operating loss
    (130 )     (24 )     (154 )
Non-operating income (expense)
                       
Interest income
    33       15       48  
Interest expense
    (159 )     (24 )     (183 )
Interest capitalized
    25       -       25  
Gain (loss) on disposal of assets
    (29 )     990       961  
Gain on financial instruments recorded at fair value
    153       -       153  
Equity and other investment income (1) (2)
    -       17       17  
Other non-operating income (expense)
    (2 )     1       (1 )
      21       999       1,020  
Income (loss) before the following items
    (109 )     975       866  
Non-controlling interest
    (6 )     38       32  
Foreign exchange loss
    (41 )     -       (41 )
Recovery of (provision for) income taxes
    (10 )     (199 )     (209 )
Income (loss) for the period
    (166 )     814       648  
                         
EBITDAR/EBITDA before the provision for cargo investigations (3)
  $ 471     $ (28 )     $ 443  
EBITDAR/EBITDA (3)
  $ 346     $ (28 )     $ 318  

(1)  
Reflects ACE’s investment in Aeroplan (up to May 9, 2008), ACTS Aero (for the first six months of 2008) and Jazz (up to February 7, 2008) using the equity method of accounting.
(2)  
Reflects distributions from Jazz Air Income Fund from February 8, 2008 to June 2008 and distributions from Aeroplan Income Fund from May 10, 2008 to June 2008.
(3)  
Refer to section 15 "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" in this MD&A for a reconciliation of EBITDAR before the provision for cargo investigations to operating income (loss) and EBITDAR/EBITDA to operating income (loss).
 
 
 
13
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
The following table reflects the results of the Corporation, the results of its reportable segments and certain non-GAAP measures for the first six months of 2007.

   
First Six Months of 2007
 
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
Air Canada
   
Aeroplan (1)
   
Jazz (2)
   
ACTS
   
CIE
   
ACE Total
 
Operating revenue
                                   
Passenger revenue
  $ 4,473     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 15     $ 4,488  
Cargo revenue
    275       -       -       -       -       275  
Other revenue
    337       198       3       113       (130 )     521  
External revenue
    5,085       198       3       113       (115 )     5,284  
Inter-segment revenue
    94       3       610       398       (1,105 )     -  
      5,179       201       613       511       (1,220 )     5,284  
                                                 
Operating expenses
                                               
Wages, salaries and benefits
    974       17       139       176       18       1,324  
Aircraft fuel
    1,221       -       125       -       (124 )     1,222  
Aircraft rent
    154       -       57       -       (16 )     195  
Airport and navigation fees
    500       -       80       -       (81 )     499  
Aircraft maintenance, materials, and supplies
    429       -       50       158       (374 )     263  
Communications and information technology
    138       7       2       8       (10 )     145  
Food, beverages and supplies
    158               6               -       164  
Depreciation, amortization and obsolescence
    264       3       9       20       (1 )     295  
Commissions
    110       -       -       -       -       110  
Capacity purchase with Jazz
    462       -       -       -       (386 )     76  
Special charge for labour restructuring
    -       -       -       15       -       15  
Other operating expenses
    759       134       83       122       (189 )     909  
      5,169       161       551       499       (1,163 )     5,217  
                                                 
Operating income (loss)
    10       40       62       12       (57 )     67  
                                                 
Non-operating income (expense)
                                               
Interest income
    49       3       2       -       7       61  
Interest expense
    (177 )     (3 )     (3 )     (10 )     (26 )     (219 )
Interest capitalized
    64       -       -       -       -       64  
Gain on disposal of assets
    21       -       -       -       4       25  
Gain on financial instruments recorded at fair value
    28       -       -       -       -       28  
Equity and other investment income (3)
    -       -       -       -       27       27  
Other non-operating income (expense)
    (10 )     (1 )     1       -       9       (1 )
      (25 )     (1 )     -       (10 )     21       (15 )
                                                 
Income (loss) before the following items
    (15 )     39       62       2       (36 )     52  
                                                 
Non-controlling interest
    (6 )     -       -       -       (73 )     (79 )
Foreign exchange gain
    193       -       -       (1 )     (1 )     191  
Recovery of (provision for) income taxes
    (51 )     -       -       -       (67 )     (118 )
Income (loss) for the period
  $ 121     $ 39     $ 62     $ 1     $ (177 )   $ 46  
EBITDAR/EBITDA (4)
  $ 428     $ 43     $ 128     $ 32     $ (74 )   $ 557  

(1)  
Reflects the consolidation of Aeroplan results from January 1 to March 13, 2007.
(2)  
Reflects the consolidation of Jazz results from January 1 to May 23, 2007.
(3)  
Reflects ACE’s investment in Aeroplan (from March 14, 2007 to June 30, 2007) and for Jazz (from May 24, 2007 to June 30, 2007) using the equity method of accounting.
(4)  
Refer to section 15 "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" in this MD&A for a reconciliation of EBITDAR/EBITDA to operating income (loss).
 
 
 
14
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
ACE’s results of operations for the first six months of 2008 are not directly comparable to its operating results for the first six months of 2007.  Refer to section 5 of this MD&A for additional information on the changes in accounting relating to Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS Aero.

ACE recorded an operating loss of $29 million, before a provision for cargo investigations, in the first six months of 2008 compared to operating income of $67 million in the first six months of 2007.  Air Canada reported an operating loss of $5 million, before a provision for cargo investigations, in the first six months of 2008 compared to operating income of $10 million in the first six months of 2007, a decrease of $15 million versus the same period in 2007. In the first six months of 2008, Air Canada recorded a provision for cargo investigations of $125 million relating to alleged anti-competitive cargo pricing activities.   ACE’s consolidated results for the first six months of 2007 included operating income from Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS of $40 million, $62 million and $12 million, respectively.

EBITDAR of $443 million, before the provision for cargo investigations, was recorded in the first six months of 2008 compared to EBITDAR of $557 million in the same period in 2007.  In the first six months of 2008, Air Canada recorded EBITDAR of $471 million, before the provision for cargo investigations, compared to EBITDAR of $428 million in the same period in 2007, an improvement of $43 million, despite an increase in fuel expense of $342 million when compared to the first six months of 2007.  In the first six months of 2007, Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS recorded EBITDAR of $43 million, $128 million and $32 million, respectively.

ACE recorded operating revenues of $5,509 million and operating expenses of $5,538 million in the first six months of 2008.  In the same period in 2007, ACE recorded operating revenues of $5,284 million and operating expenses of $5,217 million.  As a result of the deconsolidation of Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS, ACE’s operating revenues and expenses for the first six months of 2008 are not directly comparable to its operating revenues and expenses for the first six months of 2007.

Non-operating income amounted to $1,020 million in the first six months of 2008 compared to non-operating expense of $15 million in the first six months of 2007.  Included in the first six months of 2008 were gains totalling $830 million on ACE’s sale of Aeroplan Income Fund units and gains of $167 million on ACE’s sale of Jazz Air Income Fund units.  In the first six months of 2008, Air Canada recorded an impairment charge of $38 million related to the planned retirement of its fleet of Boeing 767-200 aircraft.  Gains on financial instruments recorded at fair value amounted to $153 million in the first six months of 2008 compared to gains of $28 million in the first six months of 2007.  Refer to section 10 of this MD&A for additional information on financial instruments.

Net losses on foreign currency monetary items amounted to $41 million in the first six months of 2008 versus gains of $191 million in the first six months of 2007.   The loss in the first six months of 2008 was largely attributable to a weaker Canadian dollar at June 30, 2008 compared to December 31, 2007, partially offset by gains of $83 million related to foreign currency derivatives.  The June 30, 2008 noon day exchange rate was $1US = Cdn $1.0186 while the December 31, 2007 noon day exchange rate was $1US = Cdn $0.9881.

Non-controlling interest was an income of $32 million in the first six months of 2008 versus non-controlling interest expense of $79 million in the first six months of 2007, a change of $111 million from the first six months of 2007.  The reduction in non-controlling interest mainly reflected a deterioration in operating results for Air Canada and a change in accounting methodology for Aeroplan and Jazz.

Provisions for income taxes were $209 million in the first six months of 2008 on pre-tax income of $857 million, mainly related to the disposal of Aeroplan and Jazz units. No tax recovery was recorded by Air Canada on the provision for cargo investigations.  Provisions for income taxes of $118 million were recorded in the first six months of 2007 and included $44 million related to special distributions of Aeroplan and Jazz units.

Net income in the first six months of 2008 amounted to $648 million or $8.18 per diluted share.  Net income in the first six months of 2007 amounted to $46 million or $0.44 per diluted share.  The net income in the first six months of 2008 included the significant gains on disposal of the remaining units of Aeroplan Income Fund and Jazz Air Income Fund partially offset by the provision for cargo investigations of $125 million recorded by Air Canada.
 
 
 
15
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
7.1.     Air Canada
 
In the first six months of 2008, Air Canada reported an operating loss of $5 million, before a provision for cargo investigations of $125 million, compared to operating income of $10 million in the first six months of 2007, a decrease of $15 million versus the same period in 2007.

In the first six months of 2008, EBITDAR amounted to $471 million, before the provision for cargo investigations, compared to EBITDAR of $428 million in the same period in 2007, an improvement of $43 million, despite an increase in fuel expense of $342 million when compared to the first six months of 2007.

Passenger revenues increased $292 million or 6.5% to $4,765 million in the first six months of 2008 due to growth in both system traffic and yield.  A system yield improvement of 3% reflected higher fares and increased fuel surcharges to offset higher fuel prices.  Yield improvements were recorded in all markets with the exception of the Pacific market and the South Pacific, Caribbean, Mexico and South America market.  An increase in the proportion of higher-yielding business travelers was also a factor in the yield growth.  Traffic grew 3.4% on a capacity increase of 3.4%, resulting in a passenger load factor unchanged from the first six months of 2007. Traffic growth was reflected in all markets with the exception of the US transborder market.  The traffic decrease on the US transborder market was in line with the capacity reduction.  A stronger Canadian dollar in the first six months of 2008, which lowers the Canadian dollar value of sales in foreign countries, had a negative impact on foreign currency denominated revenues, accounting for a decrease of $123 million passenger revenues for the first six months of 2008.  A RASM improvement of 3% reflected the growth in yield.

Operating expenses were $5,514 million in the first six months of 2008, an increase of $345 million or 7% from the first six months of 2007, reflecting a significant increase in fuel expense.  Excluding the increase in fuel expense of $342 million in the first six months of 2007, operating expenses increased only $3 million versus the same period in 2007 on a capacity increase of 3.4%.  Including fuel expense, CASM increased 3.1% from the first six months of 2007.  Excluding fuel expense, CASM declined 3.3% from the first six months of 2007.  Unit cost reductions were recorded in all major categories with the exception of fuel expense, ownership costs and communications and information technology expenses.

Non-operating income amounted to $21 million in the first six months of 2008 compared to non-operating expense of $25 million in the first six months of 2007. Gains relating to fair value adjustments on derivatives instruments amounted to $153 million in the first six months of 2008 versus gains on financial instruments of $28 million in the first six months of 2007.  Net interest expense increased $37 million from the same period in 2007.  A lower amount of capitalized interest related to new aircraft and a decrease in interest income due to lower cash balances more than offset the $18 million decrease in interest expense.  In Quarter 1 2008, Air Canada recorded an impairment charge of $38 million related to the planned retirement of its fleet of Boeing 767-200 aircraft.  In Quarter 2 2007, Air Canada recorded a gain on disposal of $14 million from insurance proceeds relating to a CRJ-100 aircraft owned by Air Canada and leased to Jazz which was damaged beyond repair.

Net losses on foreign currency monetary items amounted to $41 million in the first six months of 2008 versus net gains of $193 million in the first six months of 2007.   The loss in the first six months of 2008 was largely attributable to a weaker Canadian dollar at June 30, 2008 compared to December 31, 2007, partially offset by gains of $83 million related to foreign currency derivatives.  The June 30, 2008 noon day exchange rate was $1US = Cdn $1.0186 while the December 31, 2007 noon day exchange rate was $1US = Cdn $0.9881.

Air Canada recorded a provision for income taxes of $10 million in the first six months of 2008 on a pre-tax loss of $156 million, as no tax recovery was recorded on the provision for cargo investigations.  This compared to a provision for income taxes of $51 million, at an effective income tax rate of 30%, for the same period in 2007.

A segment loss of $166 million was recorded in the first six months of 2008 compared to segment income of $121 million in the first six months of 2007.  The segment loss in the first six months of 2008 included the provision for cargo investigations of $125 million.
 
 
 
16
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
7.2.     Corporate Items and Eliminations (“CIE”)
 
CIE includes the corporate, financing and investing activities of ACE.  As a result of the change in the accounting for ACE’s investment in Aeroplan, effective March 14, 2007, certain consolidation adjustments relating to Aeroplan are no longer recorded in CIE.  As previously discussed, the accounting for ACE’s investment in ACTS Aero was changed during October 2007 from consolidation to the equity method of accounting reported under the CIE segment.  Up until the time of deconsolidating ACTS Aero, the CIE segment also included certain consolidation adjustments related to revenue recognition differences for maintenance services provided by ACTS (completed contract basis of accounting for engine and component maintenance services versus the expense recognition basis in Air Canada and Jazz, which is as the work is completed).  In addition, consolidation adjustments were previously made related to the timing of revenue and expense recognition pertaining to power-by-the-hour contracts.  Subsequent to the change in the accounting for ACE’s investment in ACTS, these consolidation adjustments are no longer required.

CIE recorded an operating loss of $24 million in the first six months of 2008 compared to an operating loss of $57 million in the first six months of 2007.  Negative EBITDAR of $28 million was recorded in the first six months of 2008 compared to negative EBIDTAR of $74 million in the first six months of 2007.

CIE results for the first six months reflected $17 million of equity and other investment income compared to equity and other investment income of $27 million in the same period in 2007.

The following gains on disposals were recorded in CIE during the first six months of 2008:

·  
A gain on sale of $89 million ($71 million after tax) from the sale by ACE of 13,000,000 units of Jazz Air Income Fund in Quarter 1 2008.
·  
A gain on sale of $413 million ($340 million after tax) from the sale by ACE of 20,400,000 units of Aeroplan Income Fund in Quarter 2 2008.
·  
A gain of $417 million ($344 million after tax) from the sale by ACE of 19,892,088 units of Aeroplan Income Fund in Quarter 2 2008.
·  
A gain of $78 million ($62 million after tax) from the sale by ACE of 11,726,920 units of Jazz Air Income Fund in Quarter 2 2008.
 
 
 
17
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
 8.    Financial and Capital Management
 
The following table summarizes ACE’s consolidated statement of financial position as at June 30, 2008 and as at December 31, 2007.

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position
           
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
June 30, 2008
   
December 31, 2007
 
             
Assets
           
  Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments
    $ 2,325     $ 3,139  
  Other current assets
    1,615       1,465  
Current assets
    3,940       4,604  
Property and equipment
    7,502       7,925  
Intangible assets
    660       647  
Other assets
    699       578  
      $ 12,801     $ 13,754  
Liabilities
               
Current liabilities
    $ 3,356     $ 3,235  
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations
    4,141       4,006  
Pension and other benefits liabilities
    1,738       1,824  
Other long-term liabilities
    755       715  
      9,990       9,780  
                 
Non-controlling interest
    724       757  
                 
Shareholders' equity
    2,087       3,217  
      $ 12,801     $ 13,754  
 
8.1.    Analysis of Financial Position
 
At June 30, 2008, ACE consolidated cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments amounted to $2,325 million, a decrease of $814 million from December 31, 2007.  ACE’s unconsolidated cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments amounted to $828 million, a decrease of $1,072 million from December 31, 2007.  The change in ACE’s unconsolidated cash balances was mainly the result of substantial issuer bids aggregating $1,998 million, partially offset by the proceeds of $874 million from the sale of ACE’s investments in Aeroplan Income Fund and Jazz Air Income Fund.  Air Canada’s cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments amounted to $1,497 million at June 30, 2008, an increase of $258 million from December 31, 2007.  ACE’s shareholders’ equity totalled $2,087 million at June 30, 2008, a reduction of $1,130 million from December 31, 2007.  The change in shareholders’ equity was mainly due to the substantial issuer bids partly offset by net income and net gains on fuel derivatives recorded in other comprehensive income in the first six months of 2008.

Fuel derivatives are comprised of both derivatives designated and not designated under fuel accounting.  The current portion of the derivative asset of $382 million (included in fuel derivatives in the consolidated statement of financial position) and the long-term portion of the derivative asset of $118 million (included in deposits and other assets in the consolidated statement of financial position) are included in other current assets in the table above.  Refer to section 10 for additional information on fuel derivative instruments.
 
 
 
18
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
8.2.     Air Canada Revolving Credit Facility
 
Air Canada has a secured revolving credit facility of $400 million, as further described in Note 11 to the 2007 annual consolidated financial statements of the Corporation, which is not available to Air Canada until and unless Air Canada and the lenders conclude amendments satisfactory to each of them relating to a financial covenant and other business terms. Subsequent to June 30, 2008, Air Canada and the lenders have entered into an amending agreement pursuant to which the parties undertake to negotiate such further amendments to the facility and Air Canada agrees not to request any funding under the facility until such further amendments are agreed.  The outcome of the negotiations remain uncertain such that there can be no assurance that amendments satisfactory to the parties will  be concluded, that amounts under the facility will ever be available to Air Canada, that Air Canada will not decide to terminate the facility, or that a replacement facility will be concluded.

8.3.    Consolidated Cash flows
 
As previously discussed, ACE’s results reflect the consolidation of Aeroplan’s operations only up to March 14, 2007, the consolidation of Jazz’s operations only up to May 24, 2007 and the consolidation of ACTS’ operations only up to October 16, 2007.  Consequently, ACE’s consolidated statement of cash flows for Quarter 2 2008 and the first six months of 2008 is not comparable to its consolidated statement of cash flows for Quarter 2 2007 and the first six months of 2007.

The following table summarizes ACE’s consolidated statement of cash flows for the indicated periods.

   
Quarter 2
   
First Six Months
 
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
2008
   
2007
   
$ Change
   
2008
   
2007
   
$ Change
 
                                     
Cash from operating activities
  $ 217     $ 131     $ 86     $ 446     $ 447     $ (1 )
                                                 
Cash from (used for) financing activities
    (664 )     435       (1,099 )     (2,297 )     434       (2,731 )
                                                 
Cash from (used for) investing activities
    674       (878 )     1,552       1,032       (1,694 )     2,726  
                                                 
Net change in cash and cash equivalents during the period
    227       (312 )     539       (819 )     (813 )     (6 )
                                                 
Cash and cash equivalents - Beginning of period
    1,254       1,353       (99 )     2,300       1,854       446  
 
Cash and cash equivalents - End of period
  $ 1,481     $ 1,041     $ 440     $ 1,481     $ 1,041     $ 440  

ACE unconsolidated
 
The following summarizes significant transactions or factors which impacted ACE’s unconsolidated cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments in Quarter 2 2008:

·  
On April 21, 2008, ACE completed the sale of 20,400,000 units of Aeroplan Income Fund at a price of $17.50 per unit, for total net proceeds to ACE of $343 million.

·  
On June 2, 2008, ACE completed the sale in the market of a total of 11,726,920 units of Jazz Air Income Fund for total net proceeds to ACE of $85 million.

·  
On June 2, 2008, ACE completed the sale in the market of a total of 19,892,088 units of Aeroplan Income Fund for total net proceeds to ACE of $349 million.

·  
On June 18, 2008, ACE accepted for purchase and cancellation a total of 12,537,084 Class A variable voting shares and 10,190,187 Class B voting shares at $22.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $500 million, in accordance with the terms of a substantial issuer bid.
 
 
 
19
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
·  
In June 2008, an entity related to Grupo TACA exercised its put option and sold its 5% equity interest in ACTS Aero to ACE for $19 million.
 
The following summarizes significant transactions or factors which impacted ACE’s unconsolidated cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments in Quarter 1 2008:

·  
On January 10, 2008, ACE accepted for purchase and cancellation a total of 40,023,427 Class A variable voting shares and 9,894,166 Class B voting shares at $30.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $1,498 million, in accordance with the terms of a substantial issuer bid.
 
·  
On January 14, 2008, cash proceeds of $40 million representing the full balance of funds held in escrow on closing of the monetization of ACTS on October 16, 2007 were received by ACE.
 
·  
On January 24, 2008, ACE completed the sale of 13,000,000 units of Jazz Air Income Fund at a price of $7.45 per unit for net proceeds of approximately $97 million.
 
In Quarter 2 2007, cash flows used for investing activities included the Jazz cash of $138 million which was removed from ACE’s consolidated statement of financial position as a result of the deconsolidation of Jazz effective May 24, 2007.
 
In Quarter 1 2007, cash flows used for investing activities included cash payments of $53 million in connection with the acquisition of Aeroman and the Aeroplan cash of $231 million which was removed from ACE’s consolidated statement of financial position as a result of the deconsolidation of Aeroplan effective March 14, 2008.
 
Air Canada
The following summarizes significant transactions or factors which impacted Air Canada’s consolidated cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments in Quarter 2 2008 and in the first six months of 2008:
 
·  
Cash flows from operating activities increased $104 million from Quarter 2 2007 and $94 million from the first six months of 2007.  The improvement in both periods was largely related to favourable changes in non-cash working capital items.
 
·  
Cash used for financing activities amounted to $193 million in Quarter 2 2008 and $328 million in the first six months of 2008.  In Quarter 2 2008, Air Canada had new aircraft borrowings of $126 million which were more than offset by reduction of long-term debt and capital lease obligations of $319 million.  In the first six months of 2008, aircraft-related borrowings amounted to $313 million while reduction of long-term debt and capital lease obligations totalled $641 million.
 
·  
Cash flows used for investing activities in Quarter 2 2008 amounted to $142 million and included proceeds of $297 million relating to the sale and leaseback of two Boeing 777 aircraft.   Additions to capital assets at Air Canada, including the expenditures relating to the two Boeing 777 aircraft which were sold and leased back, amounted to $225 million.  In the first six months of 2008, proceeds from the sale and leaseback of five Boeing 777 aircraft totaled $708 million while additions to capital assets, including the expenditures relating to the five Boeing 777 aircraft which were sold and leased back, amounted to $628 million.  Other additions to capital assets at Air Canada included two additional Boeing 777 aircraft, three Embraer ERJ-190 aircraft, expenditures related to the aircraft interior refurbishment program and inventory and spare engines.
 
 
 
20
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
8.4.    Contractual Obligations
 
The table below provides the Corporation’s current contractual obligations for the remainder of 2008, for the next four years and after 2012. All obligations are related to Air Canada with the exception of the convertible senior notes which are an ACE unconsolidated obligation.

                                           
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
Remainder of 2008
   
2009
   
2010
   
2011
   
2012
   
Thereafter
   
Total
 
Convertible senior notes (1)
  $ 7     $ 14     $ 330     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 351  
Long-term debt obligations (1)
    153       299       278       283       287       2,009       3,309  
Debt consolidated under AcG-15 (1)
    101       106       153       338       93       304       1,095  
Capital lease obligations (1)
    119       161       157       151       192       604       1,384  
Operating lease obligations (2)
    148       300       289       226       208       718       1,889  
Committed capital expenditures (3)
    195       75       84       83       453       3,745       4,635  
Total contractual obligations (4)
  $ 723     $ 955     $ 1,291     $ 1,081     $ 1,233     $ 7,380     $ 12,663  
Pension funding obligations (5)
  $ 302     $ 462     $ 469     $ 476     $ 483       N/A       N/A  

(1)  
Includes both the principal and the interest component of the payment obligations and is based on interest rates and the applicable foreign exchange rate effective as at June 30, 2008.
(2)  
Mainly related to US dollar aircraft operating leases.
(3)  
Mainly related to US dollar aircraft-related expenditures.  Also includes purchases relating to system development costs, facilities and leasehold improvements.
(4)  
Excludes commitments for goods and services required in the ordinary course of business. Also excluded are future income taxes and other long-term liabilities mainly due to reasons of uncertainty of timing of cash flows and items which are non-cash in nature.
(5)  
Refer to section 8.5 of this MD&A for additional information on Air Canada’s pension plan funding obligations.
 
8.5.    Air Canada Pension Funding Obligations
Air Canada’s pension cash funding obligations are updated from those disclosed in ACE’s annual 2007 MD&A dated February 7, 2008.

As at January 1, 2008, the solvency deficit in the registered domestic plans was $1,175 million compared to $542 million at January 1, 2007.  The increase in the solvency deficit of the plans represents a deterioration in the financial position of the plans with the solvency ratio for all plans, on a combined basis, decreasing from 95% to 90%.  This decrease resulted mainly from a below target return on fund assets of (0.5%) on the Master Trust, net of expenses.

Changes in the economic conditions, mainly the return on fund assets and the change in interest rates, will impact projected required contributions.  The required contributions and solvency deficit disclosed below assume no future gains and losses on plan assets and liabilities over the projection period and especially do not reflect the economic experience and fund performance of 2008 to date.
 
 
 
21
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
Based on the January 1, 2008 actuarial valuation, Air Canada’s projected pension cash funding obligations for the remainder of 2008, for the full year 2008 and for the next four years are as follows:

                                     
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
Remainder of 2008
   
2008
   
2009
   
2010
   
2011
   
2012
 
Past service domestic registered plans
  $ 148     $ 194     $ 223     $ 223     $ 223     $ 223  
Current service domestic registered plans
    89       170       174       178       184       189  
Other pension arrangements (1)
    65       92       65       68       69       71  
Projected pension funding obligations
  $ 302     $ 456     $ 462     $ 469     $ 476     $ 483  

(1)  
Includes retirement compensation arrangements, supplemental plans and international plans.

The above pension funding requirements are in respect of the Corporation’s pension arrangements.  For domestic registered pension plans, the funding requirements are based on the minimum past service contributions disclosed in the January 1, 2008 actuarial valuations plus a projection of the current service contributions.  The next actuarial valuations are due on January 1, 2009.
 
8.6.    Air Canada Capital Expenditures and Related Financing Arrangements
 
Boeing
As at June 30, 2008, 14 of the 16 Boeing 777 firm aircraft under the purchase agreement with Boeing had been delivered, with the remaining two firm deliveries expected by the end of 2008. The seven aircraft delivered in 2007 were financed under a loan guarantee facility with the Export-Import Bank of the United States (“EXIM”).  In January 2008, the Corporation received a commitment for loan guarantee support from EXIM for all nine 2008 Boeing 777 firm aircraft deliveries.  The loan guarantee, subject to certain conditions, covers a 12-year loan term for 85% of the capital expenditure at an interest rate based on a floating rate. As at August 7, 2008, seven of the nine 2008 Boeing 777 aircraft had been delivered, two of these aircraft were financed using the EXIM facility and the other five aircraft were, concurrently with their purchase, sold by and leased back to Air Canada.  The five leases are accounted for as operating leases with 12-year terms.   All leases are at market rates at their inception date.  These sale and leaseback transactions replace an equivalent number of aircraft loan guarantee commitments provided by EXIM.  The table below assumes that Air Canada’s remaining two Boeing 777 firm aircraft scheduled for delivery by the end of 2008 will be financed under the loan guarantee facility with EXIM. The Corporation continues to review alternative financing options including sale and leaseback transactions for the remaining two Boeing 777 aircraft.

In Quarter 1 2008, Boeing notified Air Canada that its first Boeing 787 aircraft originally scheduled for delivery in 2010 was rescheduled for delivery in 2012, with additional deliveries, originally scheduled for completion between 2010 and 2014, being delayed by approximately two to two and a half years.  Air Canada will be seeking compensation from Boeing.  Air Canada is evaluating alternatives to mitigate any potential impact of this delay.
 
 
 
22
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
Projected Planned and Committed Capital Expenditures
The table below provides Air Canada’s current projected planned and committed capital expenditures for the full year 2008, for the next four years and after 2012.

                                     
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
2008
   
2009
   
2010
   
2011
   
2012
   
Thereafter
 
                                     
Projected committed expenditures
  $ 471     $ 75     $ 84     $ 83     $ 453     $ 3,745  
Projected planned but uncommitted expenditures
    222       127       151       116       85          
Total projected expenditures (1) (2)
    693       202       235       199       538          
Projected financing on committed expenditures
    (493 )     -       -       -       (400 )        
Total projected expenditures, net of financing
  $ 200     $ 202     $ 235     $ 199     $ 138          

(1)  
US dollar amounts are converted using the June 30, 2008 noon day exchange rate of 1US$ = Cdn$1.0186.  Final aircraft delivery prices include estimated escalation and interest on deferred delivery payments, which is calculated based on the 90-day USD LIBOR rate at June 30, 2008.
(2)  
The dollar amounts reflected above do not include obligations pertaining to day-to-day operations.
 
8.7.    Air Canada Fleet
 
In Quarter 2 2008, Air Canada took delivery of three Boeing 777-300 aircraft for a total of 15 Boeing 777 aircraft delivered to date. At the same time as the new aircraft are being added to its fleet, Air Canada is removing older and less efficient aircraft.   In Quarter 1 2008, Air Canada took the decision to retire its fleet of Boeing 767-200 aircraft, consisting of 10 aircraft, by the end of 2008.  These older aircraft are high unit cost aircraft from both a fuel consumption and maintenance perspective.

In response to record high fuel prices, on June 17, 2008, Air Canada announced a reduction in capacity which will impact fleet and staffing levels effective with the implementation of its fall and winter schedule.  The Corporation is continually evaluating its fleet requirements and planned aircraft events may be subject to further review and change.

Pursuant to the Jazz CPA, Jazz operates an operating fleet of 133 aircraft.

Aircraft Interior Refurbishment Program
Air Canada commenced a refurbishment program of the interiors of its existing aircraft (Boeing 767-300, Airbus A330-300, A321, A320 and A319 aircraft) in 2006 in order to offer its customers a world class product.  As at August 7, 2008, Air Canada has completed the refurbishment of 26 Boeing 767-300, 10 Airbus A321, 39 Airbus A320 and 35 Airbus A319, for a total of 110 aircraft to date. Air Canada expects all remaining operating aircraft in its fleet to be refurbished by the end of February 2009.
 
 
 
23
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
8.8.    Capital Management
 
Each of the ACE and Air Canada Boards of Directors approves the ACE or Air Canada objectives and policies for managing capital as the case may be.  Capital management is discussed separately for each entity below.

ACE
ACE views capital as the sum of parent company debt consisting of convertible senior notes, convertible preferred shares, non-controlling interest and shareholders’ equity.  This definition of capital used by management may not be comparable to measures presented by other public companies.  Capital managed by ACE, summarized from the consolidated statement of financial position, follows:
 
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
June 30, 2008
   
December 31, 2007
 
Convertible senior notes
  $ 278     $ 273  
Convertible preferred shares
    194       182  
Non-controlling interest
    724       757  
Shareholders' equity
    2,087       3,217  
Capital
  $ 3,283     $ 4,429  

Since December 31, 2007, ACE’s capital declined $1,146 million to $3,283 million mainly due to the purchase and cancellation of common shares by way of substantial issuer bids partly offset by net income in the first six months of 2008 and net gains recorded in other comprehensive income.

Air Canada
Air Canada views capital as the sum of long-term debt, non-controlling interest, capitalized operating leases and shareholders’ equity.  Air Canada currently has pre-delivery financing arranged, which is related to future deliveries, and, as the aircraft have not yet been delivered, this debt is excluded from the capital base.  Air Canada includes capitalized operating leases which is a measure commonly used in the industry to ascribe a value to obligations under operating leases.  The value is based on annualized aircraft rent expense multiplied by 7.5, which is a factor commonly used in the airline industry.  The measure used may not necessarily reflect the fair value or net present value related to the future minimum lease payments as the measure is not based on the remaining contractual payments and the factor may not recognize discount rates implicit in the actual leases or current rates for similar obligations with similar terms and risks.  This definition of capital is used by management and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other public companies.

Air Canada also monitors its ratio of adjusted net debt to net debt plus equity, with equity defined as shareholders’ equity.  Adjusted net debt is calculated as the sum of long-term debt, non-controlling interest and capitalized operating leases less cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments.

At June 30, 2008, adjusted net debt and non-controlling interest, including capitalized operating leases, and excluding the pre-delivery payment (“PDP”) financing, decreased $191 million from December 31, 2007 to $4,767 million.  The adjusted net debt to net debt plus equity ratio for Air Canada decreased to 65.9% at June 30, 2008 from 67.0% at December 31, 2007. The 1.1 percentage point improvement from December 31, 2007 was in part attributable to a stronger cash position.
 
 
 
24
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
8.9.    Share Information
At July 31, 2008, the issued and outstanding common shares of ACE, along with common shares potentially issuable, pursuant to convertible preferred shares, convertible senior notes and stock options were as follows:

Number of shares (000)
July 31, 2008
December 31, 2007
     
Issued and outstanding common shares
   
  Class A variable voting shares
24,279
82,229
  Class B voting shares
10,628
23,709
Total issued and outstanding common shares
34,907
105,938
     
Common shares potentially issuable
   
  Convertible preferred shares
11,620
11,291
  Convertible senior notes
13,133
12,210
  Stock options
70
1,682
Total common shares potentially issuable
24,823
25,183
     
Total outstanding and potentially issuable common shares
59,730
131,121

Substantial Issuer Bid – January 2008
On January 10, 2008, ACE accepted for purchase and cancellation a total of 40,023,427 Class A variable voting shares and 9,894,166 Class B voting shares at $30.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $1,498 million under the terms of a substantial issuer bid.  No convertible preferred shares of ACE were deposited on an as converted basis under the offer.

In connection with the share purchase and cancellation by ACE, the conversion rate of ACE's 4.25% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2035 was adjusted from 37.6879 to 39.0341 Class A variable voting shares or Class B voting shares per $1,000 principal amount of convertible senior notes.  The adjustment was effective January 11, 2008 and was determined in accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the convertible senior notes.
 
Substantial Issuer Bid – June 2008
On June 18, 2008, ACE accepted for purchase and cancellation a total of 12,537,084 Class A variable voting shares and 10,190,187 Class B voting shares at $22.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $500 million, in accordance with the terms of a substantial issuer bid. No convertible preferred shares of ACE were deposited on an as converted basis under the offer.
 
In connection with the share purchase and cancellation by ACE, the conversion rate of ACE's 4.25% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2035 was adjusted from 39.0341 to 40.6917 Class A variable voting shares or Class B voting shares per $1,000 principal amount of convertible senior notes.  The adjustment was effective June 19, 2008 and was determined in accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the convertible senior notes.
 
 
 
25
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
 9.    Related Party Transactions
 
At June 30, 2008, ACE held a 75% ownership interest in Air Canada.  Air Canada has various related party transactions with ACTS Aero, an ACE-related entity.
 
The related party balances resulting from the application of the related party agreements were as follows:
 
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
June 30, 2008
   
December 31, 2007
 
Accounts receivable
           
ACTS Aero (Air Canada)
  $ 99     $ 99  
    $ 99     $ 99  
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
               
ACTS Aero (Air Canada)
  $ 37     $ 88  
    $ 37     $ 88  

The related party revenues and expenses with ACTS Aero are summarized as follows:

           
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
Quarter 2 2008
 
First Six Months 2008
 
Revenues
         
Property rental revenues (ACTS Aero)
  $ 9     $ 17  
Revenues from information technology services (ACTS Aero)
    4     7  
Revenues from corporate services and other (ACTS Aero)
    5     18  
    $ 18     $ 42  
Expenses
             
Maintenance expense for services (ACTS Aero)
  $ 134     $ 275  
Recovery of wages, salary and benefit expense for employees assigned to ACTS Aero
    (68 )   (135 )
    $ 66     $ 140  
 
 
 
26
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
 10.    Financial Instruments and Risk Management
 
As described in section 5 of this MD&A, the Corporation adopted CICA sections 3862 and 3863 effective January 1, 2008.  These new standards enhance disclosures with respect to financial instruments.

Risk Management
The Corporation is exposed to the following risks as a result of holding financial instruments: fuel price risk, interest rate risk, foreign exchange risk, liquidity risk and market risk.  The following is a description of these risks and how they are managed.

Fuel Price Risk
To manage its exposure to jet fuel prices and minimize volatility in operating cash flows, Air Canada enters into derivative contracts with financial intermediaries.

As at June 30, 2008, Air Canada had hedged 40% of its fuel requirement for Quarter 2 2008, 43% of its projected fuel requirement for the remainder of 2008, 20% of its projected fuel requirement for 2009 and 7.5% of its projected fuel requirement for 2010.  The remainder of 2008 was hedged at prices that fluctuate between an average of US$108 to US$116 per barrel for jet-fuel based contracts, an average of US$95 to US$99 per barrel for heating oil-based contracts and an average of US$111 to US$125 per barrel for West Texas Intermediate (“WTI”) crude-oil based contracts.  On an equivalent WTI basis, the remainder of 2008 was hedged at prices that fluctuate between an average of US$91 to US$97 per barrel.

Since June 30, 2008, Air Canada has entered into new hedging positions, using costless collar option structures. As at August 7, 2008, Air Canada had hedged 49% of its projected fuel requirement for the remainder of 2008, 24% of its projected fuel requirement for 2009 and 9.4% of its projected fuel requirement for 2010.  With these new hedging positions, the remainder of 2008 is hedged at prices that can fluctuate between an average of US$108 to US$116 per barrel for jet-fuel based contracts, an average of US$98 to US$102 per barrel for heating oil-based contracts and an average of US$116 to US$129 per barrel for WTI crude-oil based contracts.  On an equivalent WTI basis, the remainder of 2008 is hedged at prices that fluctuate between an average of US$94 to US$101 per barrel.

The total increase in the fair value of the Corporation’s fuel derivatives, including derivatives under hedge accounting and not under hedge accounting, amounted to $449 million in Quarter 2 2008 ($568 million in the first six months of 2008).  Of the fair value gain, $255 million was deferred in other comprehensive income (“OCI”) in Quarter 2 2008 to be applied as a reduction to fuel expense in the future as the contracts mature ($401 million in the first six months of 2008), and the remaining $194 million was recorded as a gain in non-operating income in Quarter 2 2008 ($167 million in the first six months of 2008).  The accounting treatment in either OCI or non-operating expense, as described further below, does not alter the economic impact of the Corporation’s fuel hedging program.

The following information summarizes the financial statement impact of derivatives designated under fuel hedge accounting, before the impact of tax:
 
·  
The fair value of outstanding fuel derivatives under hedge accounting at June 30, 2008 was $463 million in favour of the Corporation.  At July 30, 2008, the fair value of the outstanding fuel derivatives was $281 million.
 
·  
The change in fair value of derivatives in Quarter 2 2008 was $370 million ($483 million in the first six months of 2008):
 
 
 
27
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
o   
The unrealized effective change in the fair value of derivatives recorded in other comprehensive income (“OCI”) in Quarter 2 2008 was $213 million before tax expense of $68 million ($347 million before tax expense of $110 million in the first six months of 2008).  The realized effective change in the fair value of derivatives recorded in OCI in Quarter 2 2008 was $42 million before tax expense of $14 million ($54 million before tax expense of $18 million in the first six months of 2008).  OCI amounts for Quarter 2 2008 and for the six months ended June 30, 2008 of $173 million and $273 million, respectively, are presented net of this tax expense on the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.
 
o   
The ineffective change in the fair value of derivatives recorded in non-operating income (expense) in Quarter 2 2008 was a gain of $115 million ($82 million in the first six months of 2008). The ineffective portion is calculated as the difference between the change in the intrinsic value and the change in the fair market value of the derivatives over the period as well as the difference between the Air Canada proxy derivative value and the counterparty derivative value.  The gain in non-operating income (expense) was due to the change in the fair market value of the derivatives being higher than the change in the intrinsic value.
 
·  
In Quarter 1 2008, hedge accounting was discontinued for certain fuel hedge contracts, with a fair value of $8 million, where the hedging relationship ceased to satisfy the conditions for hedge accounting.  Certain of these contracts were re-designated under hedge accounting in Quarter 2 2008.  The Corporation still continues to hold these derivatives as it believes they continue to be good economic hedges in managing its exposure to jet fuel prices. The value of the accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) balance recognized in connection with these derivatives will be taken into fuel expense upon the maturity of the contracts. No further de-designations were required in Quarter 2 2008.
 
·  
In Quarter 2 2008, fuel derivative contracts matured with fair values in favour of the Corporation for $93 million.
 
·  
In Quarter 2 2008, the benefit to fuel expense was $92 million before tax expense of $30 million ($126 million before tax of $41 million in the first six months of 2008).   This benefit was recognized through the removal of the amount from AOCI.  The after tax amount of $62 million in Quarter 2 2008 was reflected in “reclassification of net realized (gains) losses on fuel derivatives to income” on the consolidated statement of comprehensive income ($85 million in the first six months of 2008).
 
·  
In Quarter 2 2008, the net impact to AOCI was an increase of $163 million before tax expense of $52 million ($275 million before tax expense of $87 million in the first six months of 2008). As at June 30, 2008, the balance in AOCI was $359 million before tax. The estimated net amount of existing gain and losses reported in AOCI that is expected to be reclassified to net income (loss) in the following 12 months is $308 million before tax.
 
The following information summarizes the financial statement impact of derivatives not designated under fuel hedge accounting, but held as economic hedges, before the impact of tax:

·  
In Quarter 2 2008, fuel derivative contracts matured in favour of the Corporation for $12 million ($19 million in the first six months of 2008).
 
·  
The fair value of outstanding fuel derivatives not under hedge accounting at June 30, 2008 was $37 million in favour of the Corporation.
 
·  
The change in fair value of the derivative contracts in Quarter 2 2008 was a gain of $79 million ($85 million in the first six months of 2008) and was recorded in non-operating income (expense).
 
 
 
28
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
Interest Rate Risk
Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates.

The Corporation enters into both fixed and floating rate debt and also leases certain assets where the rental amount fluctuates based on changes in short-term interest rates.  The Corporation manages interest rate risk on a portfolio basis and seeks financing terms in individual arrangements that are most advantageous taking into account all relevant factors, including credit margin, term and basis.  The risk management objective is to minimize the potential for changes in interest rates causing adverse changes in cash flows to the Corporation.  The temporary investment portfolio which earns a floating rate of return is an economic hedge for a portion of the floating rate debt.

The ratio of fixed to floating rate debt outstanding is designed to maintain flexibility in the Corporation’s capital structure and is based upon a long-term objective of 60% fixed and 40% floating.  The current ratio is 60% fixed and 40% floating, including the effects of interest rate swap positions.

The following are the current derivatives employed in interest rate risk management activities and the adjustments recorded in the first six months of 2008:

·  
The Corporation entered into three cross-currency interest rate swap agreements with terms of March 2019, May 2019, and June 2019 respectively, relating to Boeing 777 aircraft financing with an aggregate notional value of $294 million (US$289 million) as at June 30, 2008. These swaps convert US denominated debt principal and interest payments into Canadian denominated debt at a foreign exchange rate of par (US$1/CAD$1) and convert from a fixed rate of 5.208% to a floating rate. These derivative instruments have not been designated as hedges for accounting purposes and are fair valued on a quarterly basis. As at June 30, 2008, the fair value of these contracts was $13 million in favour of the counterparty.  The Corporation recorded a loss of $19 million in Quarter 2 2008.
 
·  
During Quarter 1 2008, the Corporation’s one remaining Embraer 190 aircraft interest rate swap contract matured, with a fair value of $2 million in favour of the counterparty.  No gain or loss was recorded during the period.
 
Foreign Exchange Risk
Foreign exchange risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in foreign exchange rates.

The majority of the Corporation’s outstanding debt is denominated in US dollars.  The US dollar debt acts as an economic hedge against the related aircraft, which is routinely purchased and sold by Air Canada in US dollars.

The Corporation is also exposed to foreign exchange risk on foreign currency denominated trade receivables and foreign currency denominated net cash flows.

The Corporation’s risk management objective is to reduce cash flow risk related to foreign denominated cash flows.  To help manage this risk, the Corporation enters into certain foreign exchange forward contracts or currency swaps to manage the risks associated with foreign currency exchange rates. At as June 30, 2008, the Corporation had entered into foreign currency forward contracts and option agreements converting US dollars and Euros into Canadian dollars on $1,993 million (US$1,958 million) and $30 million (EUR 19 million) which mature in 2008, 2009 and 2010. The fair value of these foreign currency contracts as at June 30, 2008 was $1 million in favour of the Corporation (December 31, 2007 - $124 million in favour of third parties on $2,132 million (US$2,158 million) and $26 million (EUR 18 million) which mature in 2008 and 2009). In Quarter 2 2008, a gain of $4 million (a gain of $83 million in the first six months of 2008) was recorded in foreign exchange gain (loss) related to these derivatives.  These derivative instruments have not been designated as hedges for accounting purposes.
 
The cross-currency swap as described above under interest rate risk acts as an economic hedge of the foreign exchange risk on the financing related to two Boeing 777 aircraft with a principal amount of $294 million (US$289 million) as at June 30, 2008.
 
 
 
29
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
The Corporation had also entered into currency swap agreements for 11 CRJ aircraft.  These agreements matured in January 2008 with a nominal fair value.  No gain or loss was recorded during the period.

Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Corporation will encounter difficulty in meeting obligations associated with its financial liabilities.  The long-term debt issued by the Corporation generally has fixed principal and interest repayment requirements over the term of the instrument.

The Corporation monitors and manages liquidity risk by preparing rolling cash flow forecasts, monitoring the condition and value of assets available to be used as security in financing arrangements, and maintaining flexibility in financing arrangements.

Market Risk
Market risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market prices. Market risk comprises three types of risk: foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk and other price risk, which includes commodity price risk.  Refer to the section “Asset-Backed Commercial Paper” below for information regarding these instruments held by the Corporation.

The Corporation is exposed to market risks through the derivative instruments entered into.  The Corporation uses derivative instruments only for risk management purposes and not for generating trading profit.  As such, any change in cash flows associated with derivative instruments due to their exposure to market risks is designed to be offset by changes in cash flows related to the risk being hedged.

Asset-Backed Commercial Paper (“ABCP”)
The Corporation has $37 million ($29 million, net of a fair value adjustment) in non-bank sponsored ABCP which has been recorded in deposits and other assets.  These investments were scheduled to mature during the third quarter 2007.  An agreement in principle to restructure the ABCP investments was approved by the Pan-Canadian Committee for Third Party Structured ABCP (“Committee”) on December 23, 2007 and approved by vote, which occurred on April 25, 2008. Under the terms of the restructuring, all of the ABCP would be exchanged for longer-term notes that will match the maturity of the underlying assets in the proposed structure.  Air Canada is not accruing interest on these investments.

The carrying value as at June 30, 2008 was based on a number of assumptions as to the fair value of the investments including factors such as estimated cash flow scenarios and risk adjusted discount rates. The assumptions used in estimating the fair value of the investments are subject to change, which may result in further adjustments to non-operating results in the future.  No adjustment to the carrying value was recorded during the first six months of 2008.
 
 
 
30
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
 11.    Risk Factors
 
For a detailed description of the risk factors associated with the Corporation, refer to the section entitled “Risk Factors” in ACE’s 2007 MD&A dated February 7, 2008.  Certain risk factors in ACE’s 2007 MD&A are revised to provide for the following updates:
 
The European Commission, the United States Department of Justice and the Competition Bureau in Canada, among other competition authorities, are investigating alleged anti-competitive cargo pricing activities, including the levying of certain fuel surcharges, of a number of airlines and cargo operators, including the Corporation, a number of whom, including the Corporation, have received a statement of objections from the European Commission that sets out the European Commission's preliminary assessment in relation to such matter.  The Corporation has provided its reply to the statement of objections. Competition authorities have sought or requested information from the Corporation as part of their investigations. The Corporation is cooperating with these investigations, which are likely to lead to proceedings against the Corporation and a number of airlines and other cargo operators in certain jurisdictions.  The Corporation is also named as a defendant in a number of class action lawsuits that have been filed before the United States District Court and in Canada in connection with these allegations.

During Quarter 1 2008, the Corporation recorded a provision of $125 million as a preliminary estimate.  This estimate is based upon the current status of the investigations and proceedings and the Corporation’s assessment as to the potential outcome for certain of them.  This provision does not address the proceedings in all jurisdictions, but only where there is sufficient information to do so.  Management has determined it is not possible at this time to predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of all proceedings.  Additional material provisions may be required.

The risk factor describing the Air Canada Pilots Association (“ACPA”) claim under Current Legal Proceedings is amended to reflect the Ontario Court of Appeal’s decision, on June 27, 2008, to reject ACPA’s appeal of the order dismissing its claim.

The description of the risk factor related to Regulatory Matters is expanded to reference legislation being considered or enacted by governments (and which may apply to the airline industry), in relation to carbon emission trading schemes (such as the European Union’s emissions trading scheme legislation), aimed at reducing carbon emissions.
 
 
 
31
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
 12.    Quarterly Financial Information
 
The quarterly information presented below may not be directly comparable as a result of changes in accounting policies relating to Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS Aero.  Refer to section 5 of this MD&A for additional information.

($ millions, except per
    Q3       Q4       Q1       Q2       Q3       Q4       Q1       Q2  
 share amounts)
 
2006
   
2006
   
2007 (2)
   
2007 (3)
   
2007
   
2007 (4)
   
2008
   
2008
 
Operating revenues
  $ 2,947     $ 2,544     $ 2,625     $ 2,659     $ 3,022     $ 2,520     $ 2,726        $ 2,783  
Special charge for Aeroplan miles (1)
    (102 )     -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Operating revenues
    2,845       2,544       2,625       2,659       3,022       2,520       2,726       2,783  
Operating expenses
    (2,642 )     (2,471 )     (2,654 )     (2,563 )     (2,682 )     (2,474 )     (2,753 )     (2,785 )
Operating income (loss) before under-noted  item (5)
    203       73       (29 )     96       340       46       (27 )     (2 )
Provision for cargo investigations (6)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (125 )     -  
Operating income (loss)
    203       73       (29 )     96       340       46       (152 )     (2 )
Total non-operating income (expense), non-controlling interest, foreign exchange gain (loss) and income tax(7)
    (100 )     (122 )     (43 )     22       (116 )     1,082       (30 )     832  
Net income (loss)
  $ 103     $ (49 )   $ (72 )   $ 118     $ 224     $ 1,128     $ (182 )      $ 830  
Earnings (loss) (8)
                                                               
   Per share – basic
  $ 1.01     $ (0.48 )   $ (0.70 )   $ 1.14     $ 2.17     $ 10.81     $ (2.96 )      $ 15.46  
   Per share – diluted
  $ 0.95     $ (0.48 )   $ (0.70 )   $ 0.98     $ 1.84     $ 8.88     $ (2.96 )      $ 10.76  

(1)  
Quarter 3 2006 includes a special charge of $102 million in connection with Air Canada’s obligations for the redemption of pre-2002 Aeroplan miles.
(2)  
ACE ceased consolidating Aeroplan’s results effective March 14, 2007.
(3)  
ACE ceased consolidating Jazz’s results effective May 24, 2007.
(4)  
ACE ceased consolidating ACTS’ results effective October 16, 2007.
(5)  
Quarter 1 2007 and Quarter 2 2007 include special charges for labour restructuring of $9 million and $6 million, respectively.
(6)  
Air Canada recorded a provision for cargo investigations of $125 million in Quarter 1 2008.
(7)  
Quarter 3 2006 includes a gain of $52 million and a tax provision of $9 million relating to the sale of 1.25 million shares of its holdings in US Airways.  Quarter 4 2006 includes a dilution gain of $25 million and a tax expense of $4 million related to the Air Canada initial public offering.  Quarter 2 2007 includes a gain of $4 million and a tax provision of $1 million relating to the sale of 0.249 million shares of its holdings in US Airways.  Quarter 3 2007 includes a gain of $4 million and a tax provision of $1 million relating to the sale of 0.251 million shares of its holdings in US Airways. Quarter 4 2007 includes an aggregate gain on disposal of $1,339 million and a tax provision of $214 million mainly comprised of a gain on disposal of $565 million and a tax provision of $82 million related to the monetization of ACTS which was completed on October 16, 2007, a gain on disposal of $539 million and a tax provision of $91 million related to the secondary offering of 22,000,000 trust units of Aeroplan Income Fund and a gain on disposal of $233 million and a tax provision of $41 million related to the secondary offering of 35,500,000 trust units of Jazz Air Income Fund. Quarter 1 2008 includes a gain of $89 million ($71 million, net of tax) on ACE’s sale of 13,000,000 units of Jazz Air Income Fund and an impairment provision of $38 million recorded by Air Canada related to its fleet of Boeing 767-200 aircraft.  Quarter 2 2008 includes a gain of $413 million ($340 million, net of tax) on ACE’s sale of 20,400,000 units of Aeroplan Income fund, a gain of $417 million ($344 million, net of tax) on ACE’s sale of 19,892,088 units of Aeroplan Income Fund and a gain on of $78 million ($62 million, net of tax) on ACE’s sale of 11,726,920 units of Jazz Air Income Fund.
(8)  
Includes the impact of a substantial issuer bid completed by ACE on January 10, 2008 whereby ACE accepted for purchase and cancellation a total of 40,023,427 Class A variable voting shares and 9,894,166 Class B voting shares and a substantial issuer bid completed by ACE on June 18, 2008 whereby ACE accepted for purchase and cancellation a total of 12,537,084 Class A variable voting shares and 10,190,187 Class B voting shares
 
 
 
32
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
 13.    Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
There were no significant changes to ACE’s off-balance sheet arrangements from what was disclosed in ACE’s 2007 MD&A dated February 7, 2008.
 
 14.    Controls and Procedures
 
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Disclosure controls and procedures within ACE are designed to provide reasonable assurance that all relevant information is identified to its Disclosure Policy Committee to ensure appropriate and timely decisions are made regarding public disclosure.

ACE’s 2007 Annual Report contains a statement that the Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer and the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that ACE’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective based upon an evaluation of these controls and procedures conducted at December 31, 2007.

Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
There were no changes to ACE’s internal controls over financial reporting during the three months ended June 30, 2008 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, its internal controls over financial reporting.
 
 15.    Non-GAAP Financial Measures
 
EBITDAR/EBITDA
EBITDAR (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, obsolescence and aircraft rent) is a non-GAAP financial measure commonly used in the airline industry to view operating results before aircraft rent, depreciation, obsolescence and amortization, as these costs can vary significantly among airlines due to differences in the way airlines finance their aircraft and other assets.  For businesses without aircraft rent, such as Aeroplan and ACTS, EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and obsolescence) is used to view operating results before depreciation, amortization and obsolescence, as these costs can vary significantly among companies due to differences in the way companies finance their assets.  The Corporation presents EBITDAR before and after the provision for cargo investigations as this item could potentially distort the analysis of trends in business performance.  EBITDAR and EBITDA are not recognized measures for financial statement presentation under GAAP and do not have a standardized meaning and are therefore not likely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other public companies.

ACE’s EBITDAR for Quarter 2 2008 and for the first six months of 2008 is not directly comparable to its EBITDAR for Quarter 2 2007 and for the first six months of 2007.  Refer to section 5 of this MD&A for additional information.

EBITDAR and EBITDA and EBITDAR before the provision for cargo investigations are reconciled to operating income (loss) as follows:
 
 
 
33
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
   
Quarter 2
   
First Six Months
 
(Canadian dollars in millions)
 
2008
   
2007
   
$ Change
   
2008
   
2007
   
$ Change
 
                                     
Air Canada
                                   
GAAP operating loss before the provision for cargo investigations
  $ 7     $ 88     $ (81 )   $ (5 )   $ 10     $ (15 )
Add back:
                                               
Aircraft rent
    69       75       (6 )     132       154       (22 )
Depreciation and amortization
    173       136       37       344       264       80  
EBITDAR before the provision for cargo investigations
    249       299       (50 )     471       428       43  
Provision for cargo investigations
    -       -       -       (125 )     -       (125 )
EBITDAR
  $ 249     $ 299     $ (50 )   $ 346     $ 428     $ (82 )
Aeroplan
                                               
GAAP operating income
  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 40     $ (40 )
Add back:
                                               
Depreciation and amortization
    -       -       -       -       3       (3 )
EBITDA
  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 43     $ (43 )
Jazz
                                               
GAAP operating income
  $ -     $ 26     $ (26 )   $ -     $ 62     $ (62 )
Add back:
                                               
Aircraft rent
    -       22       (22 )     -       57       (57 )
Depreciation and amortization
    -       4       (4 )     -       9       (9 )
EBITDAR
  $ -     $ 52     $ (52 )   $ -     $ 128     $ (128 )
ACTS
                                               
GAAP operating income
  $ -     $ 9     $ (9 )   $ -     $ 12     $ (12 )
Add back:
                                               
Depreciation and amortization
    -       11       (11 )     -       20       (20 )
EBITDA
  $ -     $ 20     $ (20 )   $ -     $ 32     $ (32 )
ACE Consolidated (1)
                                               
GAAP operating loss before the provision for cargo investigations
  $ (2 )   $ 96     $ (98 )   $ (29 )   $ 67     $ (96 )
Add back:
                                               
Aircraft rent
    69       91       (22 )     132       195       (63 )
Depreciation, amortization and obsolescence
    171       149       22       340       295       45  
EBITDAR before the provision for cargo investigations
    238       336       (98 )     443       557       (114 )
Provision for cargo investigations
    -       -       -       (125 )     -       (125 )
EBITDA/EBITDAR
  $ 238     $ 336     $ (98 )   $ 318     $ 557     $ (239 )

(1)  
ACE ceased consolidating the results of Aeroplan, Jazz and ACTS effective March 14, 2007, May 24, 2007 and October 16, 2007, respectively.

 
 
34
 

 
 
Quarter 2 2008
Management's Discussio and Analysis
 
 16.    Glossary of Terms
 
Available Seat Miles or ASMs — A measure of passenger capacity calculated by multiplying the total number of seats available for passengers by the miles flown;

CASM — Operating expense per ASM;

EBITDA — EBITDA is earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and obsolescence and is a non-GAAP financial measure;

EBITDAR — EBITDAR is earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, obsolescence and aircraft rent and is a non-GAAP financial measure;

Passenger Load Factor — A measure of passenger capacity utilization derived by expressing Revenue Passenger Miles as a percentage of Available Seat Miles;

Passenger Revenue per Available Seat Mile or RASM — Average passenger revenue per ASM;

Revenue Passenger Miles or RPMs — A measure of passenger traffic calculated by multiplying the total number of revenue passengers carried by the miles they are carried;

Yield — Average passenger revenue per RPM.
 
 
 
35
 

 
Document 3
 
 

 
Form 52-109F2 - Certification of Interim Filings
 
I, Robert A. Milton, President and Chief Executive Officer of ACE Aviation Holdings Inc., certify that:
 
1.
I have reviewed the interim filings (as this term is defined in Multilateral Instrument 52-109 Certification of Disclosure in Issuers’ Annual and Interim Filings) of ACE Aviation Holdings Inc., (the "issuer") for the interim period ending June 30, 2008;
 
2.
Based on my knowledge, the interim filings do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated or that is necessary to make a statement not misleading in light of the circumstances under which it was made, with respect to the period covered by the interim filings;
 
3.
Based on my knowledge, the interim financial statements together with the other financial information included in the interim filings fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the issuer, as of the date and for the periods presented in the interim filings;

4.
The issuer's other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting for the issuer, and we have:

 
(a)
designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused them to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance that material information relating to the issuer, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which the interim filings are being prepared; and

 
(b)
designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with the issuer’s GAAP; and

5.
I have caused the issuer to disclose in the interim MD&A any change in the issuer’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the issuer’s most recent interim period that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the issuer’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: August 8, 2008

(signed) Robert A. Milton
_______________________
Robert A. Milton
President and Chief Executive Officer
 

 

 
Document 4
 
 

 
Form 52-109F2 - Certification of Interim Filings

I, Brian Dunne, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer of ACE Aviation Holdings Inc., certify that:

1.
I have reviewed the interim filings (as this term is defined in Multilateral Instrument 52-109 Certification of Disclosure in Issuers’ Annual and Interim Filings) of ACE Aviation Holdings Inc., (the "issuer") for the interim period ending June 30, 2008;

2.
Based on my knowledge, the interim filings do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated or that is necessary to make a statement not misleading in light of the circumstances under which it was made, with respect to the period covered by the interim filings;

3.
Based on my knowledge, the interim financial statements together with the other financial information included in the interim filings fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the issuer, as of the date and for the periods presented in the interim filings;

4.
The issuer's other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting for the issuer, and we have:

 
(a)
designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused them to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance that material information relating to the issuer, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which the interim filings are being prepared; and

 
(b)
designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with the issuer’s GAAP; and

5.
I have caused the issuer to disclose in the interim MD&A any change in the issuer’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the issuer’s most recent interim period that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the issuer’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: August 8, 2008

(signed) Brian Dunne
_______________________
Brian Dunne
Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer
 

 
 SIGNATURES


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 
 
ACE Aviation Holdings Inc.
 
(Registrant)
 
Date:
 
 
August 8, 2008
 
 
By:
 
/s/ Brian Dunne
 
Name:
Brian Dunne
Title:
Executive Vice-President and
Chief Financial Officer