Winnipeg to Phoenix service starts this weekend from Swoop

This weekend, Swoop, Canada's budget subsidiary of WestJet will take off with its inaugural flight to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) from Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (YWG) on Sunday, December 15 at 5:05 p.m. CST.

This is Swoop's first service to Arizona via Winnipeg, offering Manitoba travellers more options for warmer destinations this winter season. Swoop currently serves 13 North American destinations via Winnipeg through its year-round and seasonal operations, including two new routes to London and Victoria just released in the 2020 summer schedule with service beginning in April.

"Swoop is continually looking to grow and diversify our Winnipeg network offerings, providing our travellers with more options to escape to warmer climates," said Steven Greenway, President, Swoop. "In the past three months, we have celebrated the addition of several new routes from Winnipeg and look forward to continuing momentum, passing savings and great destinations on to our travellers."

The Greater Phoenix area offers Canadians a timeless Southwestern backdrop that is perfect for family vacations, weekend adventures or romantic getaways. Whether travellers are looking for a relaxing spa getaway, an active hike along mountain park trails, or a stroll through a variety of boutiques and fashionable malls, there is something for everyone.

Canadian budget carrier Swoop continues its North American expansion in its summer schedule next year

Swoop, the Canadian budget subsidiary of WestJet Airlines has released details of its summer schedule for next year which shoes continued expansion with the new routes and increased services.

Starting in April 2020, Swoop's summer schedule will include flights to San Diego, Victoria and Kamloops.  With summer being a busy travel season for Canadians, Swoop is also increasing its weekly frequency service between many markets including Hamilton to Winnipeg, Edmonton to Abbotsford, and Abbotsford to Winnipeg.

"In only 18 months, Swoop has experienced significant growth, and we are excited to continue this momentum with the release of our 2020 summer schedule," said Steven Greenway, President, Swoop. "By introducing Swoop to more markets, we are achieving our mission of providing Canadians with accessible summer travel opportunities throughout North America."

Highlights of Swoop's 2020 summer schedule includes service between:

Swoop Adds Second Mexico Destination to its Winnipeg Network

Swoop, WestJet's ultra-low-fare subsidiary has launched its inaugural flight from Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (YWG) to Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) departing at 8:45 a.m. CST.

This is Swoop's second route from Winnipeg to Mexico, offering travellers the choice to vacation on the beaches of Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos from Manitoba's capital. Having just recently launched a series of new routes from YWG, including Fort Lauderdale, Tampa Bay and Las Vegas, Winnipeggers can enjoy a total of nine destinations through Swoop's year-round and seasonal operations.

"Our route map is constantly expanding, working towards our mission of making travel more affordable, easy and accessible for all," said Steven Greenway, President, Swoop. "We are continuing to grow our Winnipeg network, providing more options for Canadians to escape Winter'peg and head to warmer destinations."

Swoop Announced as Start-up Airline of the Year

Canada's ultra-low-cost carrier takes a top prize at the 2019 CAPA World Aviation Outlook Summit

Swoop, Canada's ultra-low-fare airline and subsidiary of WestJet Airlines Ltd., was announced as the winner of the CAPA 2019 Aviation Awards for Excellence Start-up Airline of the Year. Steven Greenway, President, Swoop, accepted the award at the CAPA World Aviation Outlook Summit taking place in Malta and delivered a keynote presentation at the global summit.

The Start-up Airline of the Year is awarded annually to an innovative airline with the greatest impact on the aviation industry. Swoop's first flight took off in June 2018 and it has already experienced large success in the Canadian marketplace, currently servicing 37 markets with 17 destinations. As Canada's leading domestic and transborder ultra-low-cost carrier, Swoop's unbundled model provides travellers with low fares, services and amenities making travel more accessible for Canadians.

Swoop Takes Off with Five New Direct Flights from Winnipeg

Beginning this week, Swoop, Canada's ultra-low-fare airline and subsidiary of WestJet Airlines Ltd., launches a series of inaugural flights from Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (YWG), starting with a direct flight to Orlando International Airport (MCO) departing at 8 a.m. CST.

Over the weekend, Swoop travellers will be taking off on inaugural routes to McCarran International Airport (LAS) on November 15, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) on November 16, and Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) and Tampa International Airport (TPA) on November 17.

"This weekend marks an exciting milestone for Winnipeg travellers, gaining access to more destinations across North America at an affordable price," said Steven Greenway, President, Swoop. "Swoop's growing network offers more flights to popular destinations at an ultra-low fare for all Canadians to enjoy."

WestJet's Swoop starts service between Edmonton and Mexico's Baja Peninsular

Los Cabos, is a must-see Mexican destination for many tourists from around the world including the Canadians, and so WestJet's budget carrier off-shoot Swoop, has started a new service from its Edmonton base.

It is Swoop's fourth service from Edmonton to Mexico and its first to the Baja Peninsula. "Los Cabos is a major tourist hub in North America and we are excited to be providing Canadians with affordable flight options to visit the prominent Mexican destination," said Steven Greenway, President, Swoop. "Our low, unbundled airfare, services and amenities help make travel more accessible for Canadians, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy a vacation."

Swoop Adds Two New Mexican Destinations to its Edmonton Network

Swoop, Canada's ultra-low-fare airline and subsidiary of WestJet Airlines Inc., continues to expand its North American service with the introduction of two new routes from Edmonton International Airport (YEG); the first to Cancún International Airport (CUN) departing today, followed by the inaugural flight to Mazatlán International Airport (MZT) departing on November 2.

The new routes expand Swoop's Edmonton to Mexico service, having launched a Puerto Vallarta (PVR) service earlier this month. With Swoop's unbundled airfare, services and amenities allowing for a customized travel experience, more Canadians have the option to escape the snow this winter at an accessible price.

Launch of Swoop Getaways, powered by Expedia Group, to offer affordable package rates to travellers

Swoop, Canada's ultra-low-fare airline and subsidiary of WestJet Airlines Ltd., announced its collaboration with one of the world's largest travel platforms - Expedia Group. Swoop travellers can now book their perfect getaway, including flight and hotel, with ease through Swoop Getaways.

Currently, Swoop flies to 17 destinations throughout Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean. Through Expedia Group, travellers are now able to choose from thousands of accommodations when planning their vacations at FlySwoop.com. Swoop's travellers can also take advantage of competitive package rates if they've booked flights as part of the same trip, saving them, on average, 15 per cent off their hotel price. With plans to grow Swoop's current fleet and the addition of new routes, Swoop Getaways is a positive indication of the airline's growth plans and strong presence in the Canadian airline industry.

Swoop Adds Two New Routes from London to its Winter Schedule

Canadians can now fly direct to Cancún and Orlando from London, Ontario

London, ON residents can escape the Canadian winter with the launch of Swoop's two new routes heading south of the border. Swoop, Canada's ultra-low-fare airline and subsidiary of WestJet Airlines Inc., will depart from London International Airport (YXU) to Cancún International Airport (CUN) on October 24 at 3 p.m. EDT, followed by the inaugural flight to Orlando International Airport (MCO) on October 26 at 3:50 p.m. EDT.

These inaugural flights kick off Swoop's London, ON winter schedule. Flights are available for booking now through to April 25, 2020. With twice-weekly service offered for both routes, Swoop travellers have more choices for their winter getaway.

Swoop expands Edmonton route network with flights to Puerto Vallarta

This weekend, Swoop, Canada's ultra-low-fare airline and subsidiary of WestJet Airlines Inc., takes-off with its new service from Edmonton International Airport (YEG) to Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR). Swoop's first direct flight to Puerto Vallarta on October 19 at 5:35 AM MDT is the first of four new routes with service between Edmonton and Mexico to launch this winter.

"As winter draws closer, we are thrilled to offer Edmonton travellers an affordable way to escape to the sun," said Steven Greenway, President, Swoop. "With the continued growth of our network, we are expanding our presence across North America, providing Canadians with more travel options at an affordable price."

Swoop adds London – Las Vegas route

Swoop, Canada's ultra-low-fare airline and subsidiary of WestJet Airlines Inc. celebrates its inaugural flight from London International Airport (YXU) to McCarran International Airport (LAS). The first Swoop flight to embark on this route departs from London at 8:30 PM EDT.

With flights now available for booking, travellers can enjoy all that Las Vegas has to offer with a twice-weekly service on Thursday and Sundays.

"The addition of the London - Las Vegas route provides the opportunity for more Canadians to travel throughout North America at a price that works for them," said Steven Greenway, President, Swoop. "We are excited to continue to expand our network as Canada's preferred ultra-low fare airline. Our unbundled model helps keep fares low for all travellers because they get to customize their experience by choosing where they spend their money."

Sunwing partners with Swoop to offer customers even more travel options this winter

Canadians looking for a tropical escape that’s easily accessible from their local airport have even more options to choose from this coming winter thanks to a new agreement between leading tour operator, Sunwing, and ultra-low-cost airline, Swoop.

Sunseekers departing from Hamilton, London, Abbotsford, Edmonton and Winnipeg can now book vacation packages with the tour operator that include a Swoop flight.

Andrew Dawson, President of Tour Operations for Sunwing, commented on the news, “Saving our customers time and money by providing convenient, direct flight services from their local airport has always been a key priority for us. Sunwing Airlines already offers flights to over 45 of the most popular sun destinations from over 30 departure airports coast to coast. With this new agreement, even more Canadians will be able to experience our top-rated resorts (including leading chains such as Royalton Luxury Resorts, RIU Hotels & Resorts, Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts) as part of a valued-added vacation package departing from their local airport.”

Swoop names Shane Workman as new head of flight operations

Today, Swoop, Canada's ultra-low-fare airline and subsidiary of WestJet Airlines Inc., announced its new Head of Flight Operations, Shane Workman. Workman commences his new position today, September 30, and will oversee all flight operations for Swoop.

"I am thrilled to welcome Shane as our Head of Flight Operations. His extensive experience will be a great asset to our growing team," said Steven Greenway, President, Swoop. "Swoop is committed to being a pioneer in the evolving Canadian airline industry and the addition of Shane to our executive team helps ensure our flight operations continue to be safe and efficient."

Sunwing partners with Swoop to offer customers even more travel options this winter

                                                   Canadians looking for a tropical escape that's easily accessible from their local airport have even more options to choose from this coming winter thanks to a new agreement between leading tour operator, Sunwing, and ultra-low-cost airline, Swoop.

Sunseekers departing from Hamilton, London, Abbotsford, Edmonton and Winnipeg can now book vacation packages with the tour operator that include a Swoop flight.  

Andrew Dawson, President of Tour Operations for Sunwing, commented on the news, "Saving our customers time and money by providing convenient, direct flight services from their local airport has always been a key priority for us. Sunwing Airlines already offers flights to over 45 of the most popular sun destinations from over 30 departure airports coast to coast. With this new agreement, even more Canadians will be able to experience our top-rated resorts (including leading chains such as Royalton Luxury Resorts, RIU Hotels & Resorts, Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts) as part of a valued-added vacation package departing from their local airport."

Fly away with Swoop to San Diego this winter

Swoop's new route to San Diego from Edmonton and Abbotsford

                   Swoop announced service to San Diego, Calif. from Edmonton, Alta. and Abbotsford, B.C. beginning October 4, 2019. This announcement comes one week after the release of Swoop's 2019 winter schedule which offers non-stop flights in 39 markets that are available for booking now through April 25, 2020.

As a complement to the published winter schedule, Swoop has added three-times-weekly service between Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and three-times-weekly service between Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) and San Diego International Airport (SAN). The non-stop San Diego routes are offered every Thursday, Friday and Sunday.

Swoop's non-stop Kelowna to Las Vegas service takes flight

Today Swoop celebrates its new non-stop route between Kelowna, BC and Las Vegas, NV. The inaugural flight wraps up the celebrations for the 2019 summer schedule. Flight WO826 departs Kelowna International Airport (YLW) at 2:35 p.m. and arrives at McCarran International Airport (LAS) at 5:08 p.m., local time. Prior to departure, travellers will be offered refreshments, swag and more at Kelowna International Airport.

Details of Swoop's new service

Service Between	Service  Offered	Weekly  Frequency	Air transportation charges (ATC)  base fare from	Taxes, fees  and charges	Total One- Way Price  From*
Kelowna and Las  Vegas	Thursday, Sunday	2 x weekly	$18.44	$80.56	$99

*Every day low fares. Lower promotional fares may be available during select travel periods.

Swoop releases its 2019 Winter schedule, adds Los Cabos to its network

Photo Swoop

Swoop, the ultra-low-cost airline from WestJet has released its 2019 winter schedule today, with non-stop flights available for booking from June 25, 2019, through April 25, 2020. 

The schedule boasts 28 winter getaway routes, including the enticing new destination of Los Cabos, Mexico.  As part of the winter schedule, Swoop announced three-times-weekly service between Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and twice-weekly service between Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (YWG) and Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). The Los Cabos routes start November 2, 2019 and November 17, 2019, respectively.

Happy Birthday! Swoop marks a year in the skies

Today marks a year of ultra-low-cost flying for Swoop and its travellers. Since June 20, 2018, the ultra-low-cost airline grew from five to sixteen destinations, spanning four countries including the U.S., Jamaica and Mexico. As part of its 2019 summer schedule, the airline also recently expanded its domestic network to include London, ON and Kelowna, BC.

Less than a year since Swoops first flight the budget carrier reaches a passenger milestone.

Photo Swoop

The budget carrier from WestJet, Swoop has celebrated its one-millionth traveller on a flight from Edmonton to Hamilton earlier this week - am amazing milestone considering the airline has been flying less than a year!

William and Emily Burchat were surprised to be selected as the lucky recipients of a round-trip for two on Swoop and a commemorative, Swoop branded, model aircraft. The pair were travelling to Hamilton with their twin infant daughters who were meeting their grandparents for the first time.

It was an awesome experience. They were all super helpful, every single one of them," said William of his first Swoop flight. "Their prices are cheap, but the quality isn't. We save as much money as we can to give them (the twins) a better future. Every penny counts with them."

"Both of us and the girls flew here for half the price it would have cost," said Emily about why they chose Swoop. "We wouldn't have been able to actually make the trip. It's hard to travel as a family."

A small Swoop team was on hand in Edmonton to kick-off the festivities, which included celebratory décor and refreshments at the gate. Travellers were encouraged to record their favourite travel stories at the Swoop Stories Video Booth to be shared on the Swoop social channels. Every traveller received an exclusive Swoop luggage tag, promo code and the hugely popular, Swoop piggy bank.

Swoop President Steven Greenway was waiting in Hamilton to surprise the millionth traveller.

Swoop lifts-off with three more inaugural summer routes

Photo Swoop

       Today the ultra-low-cost airline from WestJet,  Swoop celebrates three inaugural routes as part of its 2019 summer schedule. The routes include service from London, ON to both Abbotsford and Halifax, as well as service between Winnipeg and Kelowna.

The day-long inaugural celebrations begin at Halifax Stanfield Airport (YHZ) where Swoop President, Steven Greenway will send-off the 10:20a.m. flight to London International Airport (YXU). Travellers at participating airports can take part in a gate celebration that includes refreshments, sweet treats, gifts and more.