Yellowknife (Mar 29/06) - Air Canada's new low prices to Edmonton have got First Air offering the same deal in a new seat sale almost identical to Canadian North.

Until April 14, First Air seats are available to Edmonton for $237.19 one way. The return trip will cost $253.24, taxes included.

Travellers can fly at these prices anytime between May 1 and Sept. 4, one of the busiest travel seasons for the city.

Regular fares are about $879 return. The smaller prices are in direct competition with both Canadian North, currently selling return tickets to Edmonton at $490.72 until April 15, and Air Canada Jazz at $490.43 as of July 3.

"We are matching Air Canada because we have to stay competitive," said First Air director of sales Michael Olson.

First Air is hoping people will support Northern carriers - companies that have been present within the community and have given jobs to more than 200 Northern residents.

Canadian North's new ticket prices are a part of the four seat sales they have every year, said Kelly Kaylo, vice-president of marketing and sales for Canadian North.

She said many people have said they will support Canadian North because of its loyal customer base.

"We have been very fortunate in having a large base of loyal customers, but we can't take it for granted. We need to have a competitive pricing strategy."

Gerry Pye is a potential customer for the cheap seats. He doesn't fly often, but said he "would prefer to use a Northern carrier if possible, but it does depend on price."

Neither company will confirm if the seat sales will go beyond April 14.

Both airlines have said it is too early to tell what effect the new flights from Air Canada will have on such a small market.