The post-9/11 slump in Canada's tourism industry is all but over, according to Statistics Canada

The agency says tourism spending has advanced in the past six quarters, and now stands less than 1 per cent below the peak reached in the first quarter of 2001.

Canadians are traveling more both at home and aboard. Domestic tourism spending rose 3.3 per cent in 2004 to a record level. Domestic spending represents more than two-thirds of Canada's tourism industry.

The number of jobs in the tourism industry has grown for the past 18 months, and is now at a record level.

Tourism spending on air transportation soared 10.3 per cent in 2004 helping the industry rebound. Accommodation also registered a notable gain in the year. Recreation and entertainment spending also rose, but was dampened by the NHL lockout and reduced casino earnings.

However, international tourism still remains weak. In the six quarters since the SARS outbreak in 2003, spending has jumped 18.1 per cent, but is still 8.5 per cent below the peak of non-resident spending in the first quarter of 2001.

Statistics Canada says early indicators are providing mixed signals for the first quarter of 2005. Non-residents trips to Canada remained stable in January, however overnight trips increased slightly. The agency says it is uncertain what impact the closure of JetsGo will have on future tourism numbers.