"WestJet"

WestJet has announced the launch of daily non-stop service connecting Kelowna International Airport (YLW) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). The new service is scheduled to begin in January 2025.

This new route marks a significant expansion of WestJet’s service from Kelowna. It will offer increased travel options for both business and leisure travelers.  

John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer spoke on the upcoming Kelowna service.

“We continue to strengthen our service across Western Canada. We are proud to connect Kelowna with new daily WestJet service to Seattle as part of our expanded winter schedule,” he said.

“This route will provide guests in the Okanagan and across the Pacific Northwest regions with new convenient and affordable options. This will easily connect between both popular regions for business and leisure year-round.”

Flight Scheduling

The morning departure from Kelowna is timed to accommodate business travelers. It facilitates access to convenient connections available to over 24 cities across the western United States.

Leisure travelers will also appreciate the flexibility of the afternoon return flight. This allowsample time to explore the vibrant city of Seattle before returning home.  

“WestJet has been a valued partner for Kelowna International Airport for 28 years,” said Sam Samaddar, Kelowna International Airport Chief Executive Officer.

“It demonstrates their commitment to our region through continued expansion of the domestic and international network available from YLW.”

“I would like to thank WestJet for their dedication to the Okanagan which allows the growth of our airport and provides benefits to our entire community – from access to travel for business and leisure, to economic development here at home.”

Supporting Okanagan Valley Connectivity

The addition of Seattle to WestJet’s Kelowna route network complements the airline’s ongoing commitment to the Okanagan Valley.

With up to 20 daily departures during peak winter season, WestJet offers a wide range of options for travelers to explore the region’s many attractions, including skiing, snowboarding, wine tasting, and golf.  

WestJet’s partnership with Delta Air Lines provides passengers with a seamless travel experience, including the ability to book flights on a single ticket.

It offers check in for all flights at the first departure, and travellers enjoy reciprocal benefits such as earning and redeeming frequent flyer points.  

The new Kelowna-Seattle route is expected to generate significant economic impact for both regions, supporting tourism, business travel, and job creation.

About WestJet

WestJet is Canada’s leading regional airline with operations at 33 airports throughout North America, Central America, the Caribbean and Europe.

About Kelowna International Airport

Kelowna International Airport (YLW) is a dynamic, growing airport serving the Okanagan Valley. YLW offers non-stop service to major Canadian and U.S. destinations.  

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WestJet Group is taking proactive steps to minimize disruptions to upcoming WestJet flights due to a potential strike action.

The action relates to WestJet Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and other Tech Ops employees represented by the Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Association (AMFA).

The precautionary cancellations enables proactive communication with guests and crew to minimize the potential for being stranded. It ensures that the airline can avoid abandoning aircraft in remote locations.

Flight Cancellations and Aircraft Parking

The airline has begun cancelling and consolidating flights to strategically park aircraft in a safe and organized manner.

This allows for proactive communication with passengers and crew. It aims to minimize the risk of stranded travelers and ensuring aircraft are not left unattended in remote locations.

Negotiations at an Impasse

This action comes as WestJet awaits a response from the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB). This relates to their request for intervention under the Canada Labour Code.

Intervention would refer both WestJet and AMFA to binding arbitration for a first collective agreement, preventing a work stoppage.

Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines and Group Chief Operating Officer spoke on behalf of the carrier. “We regret the impact this may have on our guests, communities, and businesses,” he said.

“The membership’s rejection of a generous offer, which would have made our Aircraft Maintenance Engineers the highest paid in the country, indicates a breakdown in negotiations.”

72-Hour Strike Notice

On June 17, WestJet had formally requested intervention from the CIRB and the Minister of Labour. This request was made in accordance with the Canada Labour Code.

In response, AMFA issued a 72-hour strike notice, potentially starting as early as Thursday, June 20 at 7:00 p.m. MT.

“Intervention by the CIRB and Minister of Labour would allow for a fair and impartial resolution through a third-party mediator,” stated Pen at the time of the request.

“This process aims to avoid disruptions, provide certainty for travelers and communities relying on us for summer travel plans. It will ensure stability for all WestJet Group employees.”

Flight Cancellations and Passenger Impact

Over a 48 hour period, WestJet is implementing a measured and safe approach to parking aircraft, resulting in approximately 40 flight cancellations.

These are currently taking place between Tuesday, June 18 and Wednesday, June 19. Overall, this will impact roughly 6,500 passengers. WestJet is actively working to re-accommodate all affected travelers.

“Safety is our top priority, and we will never compromise in this area,” Pen concluded.

Travel Updates & Recommendations

WestJet recommends that passengers check their flight status before heading to the airport.

Passengers will find up-to-date information on flight status, travel changes, and more on WestJet’s Guest Updates page.

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For those taking WestJet flights, two further narrowbody aircraft are set to join the airline this year. Canada’s WestJet Group continues its growth trajectory with the acquisition of two additional Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

These aircraft, sourced from global lessors Aviation Capital Group (ACG) and High Ridge Aviation, will be integrated into WestJet’s operations later this year.

This news builds on the momentum of WestJet Group’s earlier announcement regarding the addition of four Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

Partnering with BOC Aviation Limited and AerDragon, the airline is strategically expanding its fleet to boost travel options and accessibility for Canadians.

About WestJet: A Canadian Success Story

Founded in 1996 with just three aircraft, the airline had a vision of making air travel more affordable. WestJet has since grown into a major player in the Canadian aviation industry.

Today, the WestJet Group boasts over 180 aircraft serving more than 100 destinations. These span 26 countries across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and Europe.

WestJet is known for its focus on guest experience, offering a comfortable and friendly atmosphere onboard its flights.

The airline takes pride in its primary commitment to affordability. It consistently provides competitive fares on WestJet flights that make travel accessible to more Canadians.

WestJet’s dedication to its employees is also a core value, fostering a positive work environment that translates into exceptional service for passengers.

WestJet Growth Strategy Continues

“We’re thrilled to welcome these new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to our family,” said Mike Scott, WestJet Group’s Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer.

“Partnering with esteemed industry partners like ACG and High Ridge Aviation allows us to solidify our commitment to providing affordable air travel to Canadians while executing our ambitious growth strategy.”

The addition of these new planes will significantly increase WestJet’s network capacity, allowing the airline to offer more flights and potentially reach new destinations.

The initial cabin experience may not immediately reflect the high standards WestJet guests have come to expect.

However, the airline is prioritizing updating the interiors as part of its existing fleet reconfiguration plans. This will ensure consistency and a similar travel experience across all WestJet operations as soon as possible.

Stakeholder Comments

“Expanding our partnership with WestJet and supporting their exciting growth plans is an honor for ACG,” said Alan Mangels, Vice President of Marketing for ACG.

“These cutting-edge Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft are not only fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly. They are also perfectly aligned with WestJet’s goals of providing affordable and sustainable travel options.”

“We’re delighted to contribute to WestJet’s ongoing fleet needs,” shared Greg Conlon, CEO of High Ridge Aviation.

“Our longstanding relationship with WestJet, dating back 25 years, positions us perfectly to support their growth.”

“Our team’s expertise and extensive industry connections allow us to provide exceptional fleet management solutions.”

The WestJet Group’s commitment to growth goes beyond acquiring new aircraft. The airline is actively investing in its people, technology, and infrastructure to provide a superior travel experience for all Canadians.

With this latest fleet expansion, WestJet positions itself for continued success, offering more choices, greater accessibility, and, of course, friendly skies for travelers across the country.

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WestJet has this week revealed the addition of three more Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to it’s fleet.

It is understood these aircraft are under lease from BOC Aviation, and will be integrated into the fleet this year.

Without further ado, let’s get into it…

The Aircraft Started Life with Lynx Air…

Data from Planespotters.net shows that the three aircraft on lease from BOC Aviation started out life with Lynx Air.

Moreover, it is understood the following aircraft are:

• C-GFJO
• C-GFJQ
• C-GFVE

Furthermore, all three aircraft are currently parked at Tucson, Arizona at the time of publication and belonged to the defunct Canadian carrier.

Lynx Air ceased operations around three months ago due to “financial pressures, rising operating costs, high fuel prices, and increasing airport charges”.

It is understood WestJet took delivery of all three aircraft over the course of last month.

All Part of An Ambitious Growth Strategy…

Commenting on the acquisition of three Boeing 737 MAX 8s was Mike Scott, WestJet Group, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer:

“We have an ambitious growth strategy, and the expansion of our fleet is critical to our mission of providing affordable air travel to Canadians”.

“Working with a trusted partner like BOC Aviation supports us in meeting our growth expectations for 2024.”

“Two years ago, we set out a plan for growth that would maintain our position as both Canada’s national leisure champion and western home carrier, while enhancing domestic connectivity from coast-to-coast,”

“We are seeing the benefits of our strategy come to life across our network and the consistent growth of our fleet capacity is essential to maintaining our momentum.”

Furthermore, adding to this was Steven Townend Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of BOC Aviation:

“We are delighted to support our long-term customer, WestJet, in its network growth”.

“Our provision of latest technology, fuel efficient aircraft will assist WestJet as it expands its business in the most cost-effective fashion.”

Overall…

Overall, what has been Lynx Air’s loss has been WestJet’s gain.

The acquisition of the three Boeing 737 MAX 8s will encourage capacity upgrades on their network.

Looking ahead, all eyes will be on when they are sent to Canada from Tucson.

But for now, let’s see what routes are added or upgraded as a result of this acquisition.

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The WestJet Group (WestJet) recently unveiled “Soaring Together,” a report outlining its achievements across Canada since implementing its ambitious growth strategy two years ago.

This commitment to expansion aims to unlock more affordable travel options for Canadians while driving job creation and economic prosperity.

“WestJet Group remains a powerful force for good in Canada,” declared Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group CEO.

“Our strategy fuels network expansion and fosters reliable, budget-friendly air travel for communities coast-to-coast.”

“As we build on this success and enhance the guest experience, we must champion affordability.”

2023 Key Achievements

• Record-Breaking Value: In 2023, WestJet offered over 2.5 million tickets under $100, and nearly half of all tickets were priced below $200.
• Job Growth Engine: Over the past two years, WestJet has hired more than 5,400 employees, bringing its total workforce to 15,000.
• Calgary: A Thriving Hub: WestJet has solidified YYC Calgary International Airport as its global hub.

The airline played a key role in transforming Calgary into North America’s best-connected mid-sized city for air travel. By year-end 2024, WestJet Group anticipates a 40% increase in Calgary seat capacity compared to 2022.

• Western Dominance: As Canada’s western leader, WestJet reigns supreme as the number one carrier in eight out of nine major Western Canadian airports.
• Punctuality Powerhouse: WestJet boasts the title of Canada’s most dependable major airline.

WestJet has consistently exceeding industry standards for on-time departures, arrivals, and completions. Notably, in April 2024, WestJet secured the second-place ranking for on-time performance among all major North American carriers.

• Vacation Powerhouse: In 2023, WestJet solidified its position as a leader in vacation travel through the acquisition of Sunwing Airlines and Sunwing Vacations.

This strategic move strengthens WestJet’s presence and allows them to offer Canadians the best vacation packages available.

Currently, half of all vacation packages sold in Canada originate from brands within the Sunwing Vacations Group.

Championing Affordability

WestJet Group advocates for a freeze on mandatory government-imposed fees and a permanent halt to airport rent collection.

They acknowledge the high costs and uncompetitive regulatory environment in Canada. However, they highlight that since their inception in 1996, ticket prices have decreased by more than half (in real terms) due to WestJet’s fierce competition within the market.

To address affordability concerns and bolster competitiveness, WestJet proposes the following policy recommendations to the federal government:

• Comprehensive Review: A thorough examination of Canada’s user-pay system for aviation infrastructure, considering the impact on competitiveness, fairness across transportation modes (intermodal equity), the potential for travelers to switch to alternative travel options (border leakage), and overall value for taxpayers.
• Fee Freeze: An immediate freeze on all mandatory government fees, charges, and policies that contribute to rising travel costs.
• Airport Rent Reform: The cessation of airport rent collection by the federal government.

CEO Closing Comments

“WestJet prioritizes transparency and low-cost operations to foster competition and deliver exceptional value to our guests,” emphasized von Hoensbroech.

“However, the high costs associated with our user-pay infrastructure significantly inflate ticket prices for Canadians and hinder competition within the industry.”

“Travelers are burdened with excessive government fees and charges compared to other countries and modes of transportation. These proposed changes would stimulate competition, lower ticket prices, and enhance transparency for our valued customers.”

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WestJet has unveiled a significant network expansion for the upcoming winter season, promising paradise getaways and enhanced connectivity across North America.

New flights to the sun destinations of Tulum, Mexico and Grenada have been added for winter 2024/2025.

Additionally, the airline boosts its transborder offerings with new flights to Fort Lauderdale, FL. These will operate from Vancouver and Winnipeg.

Winter 24/25: Tulum and Grenada Beckon

WestJet is solidifying its position as the go-to carrier for Riviera Maya adventures. This winter, travelers can escape to the newly opened international airport in Tulum, Mexico.

Direct flights are scheduled to operate from both Calgary and Toronto. This expansion caters to the ever-growing popularity of this trendy destination, famed for its stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and vibrant nightlife.

For those seeking a taste of the Caribbean, WestJet is adding Grenada, the “Spice Island,” to its winter schedule.

This once-weekly service, departing from Toronto, unlocks a world of exploration for Canadians. Grenada boasts pristine beaches, cascading waterfalls, and a rich cultural tapestry influenced by African, European, and Amerindian traditions.

Flights will be available for purchase soon, with travel dates spanning from November 3rd, 2024, to April 27th, 2025. (Flights will be subject to government approval.)

Fort Lauderdale Joins the Transborder Party

WestJet isn’t just focusing on sun destinations south of the border. The airline group is expanding its transborder offerings with the addition of year-round weekly flights to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Flights services will operate from both Vancouver and Winnipeg.

This news provides even more options for Canadians seeking a quick escape to the sunshine state, offering access to Fort Lauderdale’s famed beaches and vibrant nightlife.

The destination also offers proximity to other popular Florida travel locales like Miami and the Everglades.

Year-Round Domestic and Delta Hub Access

WestJet is committed to providing Canadians with seamless travel experiences year-round. This commitment extends beyond winter sun getaways.

The airline group is bolstering domestic connectivity with the addition of year-round flights between Edmonton and both Ottawa and Montreal. Similarly, Winnipeg will enjoy year-round service to Montreal.

For those seeking connections beyond Canada, WestJet is solidifying its partnership with Delta Air Lines.

Passengers can now enjoy year-round service from Edmonton to key Delta hubs in Atlanta and Minneapolis, opening doors to a wider network of destinations throughout the United States.

WestJet and Leisure Travel

“Our commitment to offering Canadians the most robust and affordable choices for their travel needs continues,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer.

“These network enhancements solidify WestJet’s position as Canada’s leisure airline leader.”

WestJet’s network expansion caters to the ever-growing demand for accessible and affordable travel options.

With new winter sun destinations, enhanced transborder connections, and year-round domestic and international hub access, WestJet is well-positioned to be the airline of choice for Canadians seeking memorable travel experiences.

 So, whether you’re dreaming of basking on the beaches of Tulum or exploring the vibrant culture of Grenada, WestJet has you covered this winter and beyond.

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