RE:I don't know"Shipping/aircraft regs, but I've wondered if Chorus could pull the seats from any inactive Q400's, and start hauling short distance freight. Considering how much the current demand, and gangbuster Cargojet is doing, you'd think regulatory authorities would be quite lenient at the moment. Pretty essential, from my point of view. As well, without passengers, would they be able to fly Q400's, single pilot? On B.C. Ferries, it's DOT rules that you're not allowed to stay in your vehicle on lower decks, but due to Covid you are, at least for now. But Wow, one pilot, so total SD and fantastic revenue freight. Think it's possible?"
Is it possible? No.
The Q400 is certified for two pilot operation - airline, cargo, revenue, non-revenue, ferry flight, training - doesn't matter, can only be operated with two pilots. (This is not just Air Canada but every airline, everywhere in the world).
Long-haul air cargo requires a jet. Short-haul uses a truck with the exception of the bank bags and a small amount of very expensive courier cargo. All of this is efectively handled with exisiting contracts. There is no place for Chorus in the cargo would other than carrying AC cargo on sked flights.