The WestJet Group starts non-stop service between Calgary and Iceland

The WestJet Group has started a new service linking Calgary with Reykjavik as part of the Canadian airline's plan to expand to new destinations. WestJet's service to Reykjavik (Keflavik) will be propelled by its growing Boeing 737 MAX fleet, operating four times weekly through to October 13, 2024

As WestJet executes upon its growth strategy, delivering an expansive network of convenient domestic connections into its global hub in Calgary, WestJet's impressive European network, is made easily accessible for Canadians across the country. With the inclusion of Iceland to its network, guests travelling from or through Calgary will gain access to seven transatlantic connections via WestJet's network this summer. For full details on WestJet's service between Calgary and Europe, visit WestJet.com.

"On behalf of The Calgary Airport Authority and our entire YYC Crew, I am thrilled to congratulate WestJet on its inaugural non-stop route from Calgary to Reykjavik," said Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO of The Calgary Airport Authority. "This new route is about more than just the connection between two cities, it's about recognizing a mutual commitment to global connectivity. In advancing that commitment, every step, every new destination, counts towards solidifying YYC's role and status as a global hub."

Further enhanced by the airline's interline agreement with Icelandair, WestJet's service to Reykjavik will enable guests to travel across Icelandair and WestJet's network via one boarding pass, with the convenience of a single check-in and baggage tagged and checked to their final destination.

"KEF is thrilled to greet its newest partner WestJet today," says Gudmundur Dadi Runarsson, Director for Airline Relations and Route Development Chief Commercial and Airport Development Officer at Keflavik Airport. "WestJet is showing confidence in Iceland as a destination by adding it to its impressive selection of travel opportunities, while at the same time opening Icelanders up to the experience of the great city of Calgary and all that the province of Alberta can offer. We look forward to forging a strong partnership with WestJet well into the future."

Route	Frequency	Departure time (local)	Arrival time (local)
Calgary – Reykjavik (Keflavik)	4x weekly	7:55 p.m.	8:25 a.m.
Reykjavik (Keflavik) - Calgary	4x weekly	9:45 a.m.	10:43 a.m.

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The WestJet Group boosts Calgary's global connectivity through enhanced Winter 787 Schedule

The WestJet Group has announced significant enhancements to its transoceanic and leisure travel offering with its winter 787 schedule, revealing expanded year-round service between Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) and an increase to daily connectivity between Calgary and Paris Charles-de-Gaulle International (CDG) and London Heathrow International (LHR) Airports. As The WestJet Group continues to fortify its position as Canada's leisure travel champion, the airline is also enhancing its 787 presence on popular leisure routes with service between Canada, Mexico and Hawaii.

"Our 787 winter schedule reflects the growing demand for year-round international options for business and leisure travellers from our global hub in Calgary to Asia, Europe, and North America," said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. "We will continue to strategically position our Dreamliners to provide the best global access between Western Canada and the world."

Year-round service to Tokyo, Unlocked

Building on the existing summer seasonal service, WestJet is investing in year-round service between Calgary and Tokyo. The service enhancement is a strategic milestone for the airline, bringing more visitors to Alberta and strengthening global tourism opportunities, while preserving Calgary's position as the most connected mid-sized city in North America. Through WestJet's longstanding codeshare agreement with Japan Airlines guests will also have access to seven destinations beyond Tokyo.

The WestJet Group and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association reach agreement - tentatively.....

The WestJet Group and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) the certified union representing WestJet Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, announced they have reached a tentative agreement on the first collective bargaining agreement between the organizations. Both parties now await the ratification vote to be put forward to membership.

"The WestJet Group is pleased to have reached a tentative agreement that is industry-leading within Canada and recognizes the important contributions of our valued Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, making them the highest paid in Canada, while delivering industry leading work-life balance standards and strong commitments to job security," said Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines and Group Chief Operating Officer. "We are grateful to have arrived at a deal, averting a work stoppage and any impact to our guests' valued travel plans. We sincerely appreciate our guests' patience during this time and are pleased to move forward with an unwavering focus to providing friendly, reliable and affordable air service to Canadians for years to come, as one unified team."

"After nine months of tough negotiating, we are proud to have reached a tentative agreement that will now be presented, through the ratification process, to the hard working Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and other Technical Operations employees who go above and beyond to maintain a best-in-class culture of safety for the WestJet Group," Will Abbott, AMFA National Region II Director, Chairman.

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WestJet issues ultimatum tech ops union....

WestJet issues 72-hour lockout notification to its Tech Ops union, AMFA

WestJet today has issued a 72-hour lockout notice to the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), the union that represents WestJet Aircraft Maintenance Engineers. As a result of today's lockout notice, a work stoppage could occur as early as Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at 12 p.m. MT, unless a deal is reached.

"The decision to issue a lockout notice was not one that was made lightly, and we sincerely regret and apologize for the uncertainty this causes for our guests and the communities and regions that rely on us. Despite our unwavering commitment to reach a collective agreement, AMFA continues to show up to the bargaining table with unreasonable demands and expectations," said Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airline and Group Chief Operating Officer. "With AMFA publicly issuing a strike vote alert last week and publicly directing guests to fly with other carriers, we can't allow the unpredictable nature and lack of progress to continue. We are left with no alternative but to issue a lockout notice in an attempt to bring this to a final resolution."

The WestJet Group has been in active labour negotiations with AMFA since September 2023. The WestJet Group has presented an offer to AMFA that would make WestJet Aircraft Maintenance Engineers the highest paid in Canada, with a cumulative wage increase of over 20 per cent across the span of the collective agreement. The offer would also deliver industry leading work-life balance standards and strong commitments to job security.

"We sincerely value the work and contributions of our Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, and our proposed agreement reflects this. We are unwaveringly committed to reaching an agreement to prevent travel disruption, however, we are equally prepared to protect the travel plans of our guests and to provide long-term stability and security for all employees at the WestJet Group," concluded Pen.

Issuing a 72-hour lockout notice does not mean travel disruption will occur. However, in the coming days, the WestJet Group will take all necessary actions to manage the impacts as much as possible, including:

• Beginning preparations to operate a reduced schedule.
• Proactively managing changes and cancellations, to ensure the ability to communicate with guests in advance of their flight.
• Providing flexible change and cancel options for those who wish to make alternative arrangements.

Please visit WestJet's Guest Updates page for more information regarding flight status, travel changes and applicable dates for flexible change and cancel options.

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WestJet outlines strategic plan in St. John's

WestJet Group outlines strategic plan in St. John's

Celebrating the Group's return of transatlantic flying to the region, von Hoensbroech underscores steadfast commitment to Newfoundland and Labrador during his inaugural visit

 WestJet Group CEO, Alexis von Hoensbroech concluded his inaugural visit to Atlantic Canada in St. John's, Newfoundland on Thursday, where he was joined by key stakeholders and community members to discuss the Group's expanding presence across the region. Von Hoensbroech highlighted the WestJet Group's renewed commitment to the region, as exhibited by network enhancements unfolding across the province's key airports this summer, including; increased east-to-west domestic air service seamlessly connecting Canadians from coast-to-coast, and enhanced leisure service, accomplished through the resumption of seasonal transatlantic service to London (Gatwick) and increased north to south air service providing access to popular sun destinations in the winter.

"We have heard loud and clear from both the city and the province on the importance of the WestJet Group's presence in the region. We are committed to leveraging our aircraft to further enhance Atlantic Canada's accessibility through thoughtful and targeted air connections, facilitating critical domestic, leisure and global air links to St. John's and the broader province," said von Hoensbroech.

In his remarks, von Hoensbroech provided a comprehensive overview of the WestJet Group's ongoing investments in Newfoundland and Labrador, demonstrating confidence in the airline's future presence in supporting the region:

Transatlantic flights reconnecting Newfoundland and Labrador to the world

Elevating its growth strategy, the WestJet Group has reached significant milestones, bolstering the province's network in 2024:

• May 1, 2024, the WestJet Group restarted the highly anticipated service between St. John's and London (Gatwick), providing the community with non-stop service to one of Europe's most popular global travel hubs, filling the largest air access gap for the province.
• This summer, St. John's will gain a 35 per cent increase in seat capacity, as a result of the WestJet Group's investments, compared to 2023.
• The WestJet Group will operate 36 weekly flights out of St. John's International Airport, during peak summer this year, a 20 per cent increase in total weekly flights, compared to 2023.
• The WestJet Group will return service to Deer Lake this spring, with new non-stop seasonal service to Calgary on May 18, 2024 and the restart of service to Toronto on May 16, 2024.

The WestJet Group fulfils its promise to satisfy demand through network schedule

The WestJet Group's growth strategy comes to life in Halifax this summer amidst return of transatlantic air connectivity

Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group CEO, commemorates first visit to Halifax with key partners and community members, reaffirming commitment to Atlantic Canada

This week WestJet Group CEO, Alexis von Hoensbroech, addressed key stakeholders and community members with a fulsome update on the airline's growth strategy and vision for Atlantic Canada at a special event hosted by the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. Commemorating his first visit to Nova Scotia, von Hoensbroech spoke about the WestJet Group's commitment to growing its presence across the region through critical air connectivity. With increased leisure opportunities, achieved through the resumption of transatlantic service and increased north to south air service providing access to popular sun destinations in the winter, along with enhanced east-to-west domestic air service better connecting Canadians from coast-to-coast, the WestJet Group's strategy is coming to fruition across Atlantic Canada.

"It is incredible to be visiting Halifax for the first time, meeting with our remarkable partners and getting to experience the tremendous Atlantic Canada hospitality firsthand," said von Hoensbroech. "We set out our growth strategy almost two years ago, and we are seeing it well in action across Atlantic Canada; our commitment to Halifax is strong as we work to meet demand and fuel Halifax's tourism pipeline."

Von Hoensbroech highlighted the WestJet Group's milestone achievements in Halifax and current and upcoming network investments serving to enhance the city's air connectivity, while bolstering the region's visitor economy:

Propelling Halifax forward through partner collaboration and strategic investments

Taking the airline's growth strategy to new heights in 2024 and beyond, the WestJet Group has accelerated on the following cornerstone achievements:

• On April 28, 2024, the WestJet Group celebrated the takeoff of its inaugural service between Halifax and London Gatwick, the first of three critical transatlantic routes that will return to Nova Scotia's capital this summer, bridging essential connections to global hubs, tourism and business economies.
• This summer, Halifax will see a 31 per cent increase in seat capacity provided by the WestJet Group, compared to 2023.
• Halifax Stanfield International Airport will have 90 weekly flights operated by the WestJet Group during peak summer this year; a 43 per cent increase in total weekly flights compared to 2023.

New Edmonton to Atlanta service from WestJet

WestJet has launched a new daily flight between Edmonton and Atlanta, to boost its transborder connectivity.

"Our new route to Atlanta, will bolster incredible connectivity for Edmonton, stimulating critical new opportunities for the city's vibrant business sector and visitor economy to grow and thrive," said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. "With year-round service, we are opening up Edmonton to the world and the world to Edmonton with convenient access to a mega-global hub, which hosts more than 1,000 flights per day to more than 200 international and domestic destinations."

Route	Frequency	Start Date	Departure	Arrival
Edmonton-Atlanta	Daily	April 29	12:45 a.m.	7:06 a.m.
Atlanta-Edmonton	Daily	April 29	9:05 a.m.	11:50 a.m.

More seamless options for trade and tourism with access to Atlanta, Delta's largest hub

The United States represents Alberta's most important bilateral trade partner and the largest inbound tourism market for the province. Through WestJet's longstanding partnership with Delta Air Lines, guests connecting through Atlanta will gain access to a vast network of U.S. destinations on a single purchased ticket with check-in for all flights at the first departure, baggage tagged to their final destination and lounge access for select guests. Additionally, frequent flyers of both airlines will continue to enjoy extensive reciprocal benefits any time they fly with either carrier, including earning and redeeming in their preferred program.

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"WestJet's new non-stop service to Atlanta from Edmonton supports the growth of new business and tourism opportunities between our regions," said Myron Keehn, President & CEO, Edmonton International Airport (YEG). "WestJet continues to be a key partner in achieving our vision of bringing more flights to more places from YEG. Travellers can now discover why Atlanta is one of National Geographic's top destinations in the world in one of the most business-friendly states in the U.S.  We are pleased that this new route gives passengers the opportunity to explore even further the over 200 connecting destinations globally through Atlanta."
"Canada is one of Atlanta's largest international markets for inbound travel, and WestJet's new flight creates an opportunity for incremental traffic to Atlanta," said William Pate, president and CEO, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau. "We look forward to welcoming more Canadian visitors and showcasing everything our city has to offer."

WestJet's plans for Alberta's capital city

Canadian carrier, WestJet's CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech, outlined the airline's strategy and commitments for 2024 and beyond in collaboration with key partners at his first annual address to business and community leaders at the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce.

"As the capital city of our home province, we are unwaveringly committed to maintaining and growing our title as Edmonton's leading air carrier, as exhibited by our growing network and track record of fueling Edmonton's economic pipeline through inbound tourism and investment attraction," said von Hoensbroech to a sold-out business audience at the Glenora Club. "The Edmonton community is at the heart of our ambitious growth strategy as we strive to further cement the city's well-deserved position on the global stage, making it one of the most connected cities of its size in North America."

In his remarks, von Hoensbroech summarized WestJet's leading investments in Edmonton and provided an update on the airline's progress in bolstering Edmonton's transborder connectivity and expanding its domestic network.

Economic growth through transborder connectivity

WestJet has been working closely with key partners to inject flights that the business community relies upon to further build the local economy and advance the airline's growth plan. Through collaboration and strategic network planning, WestJet has answered the call for an expanded transborder network, with the following achievements:

As Alberta's largest and most important bilateral trade partner, WestJet has fulfilled the critical demand for transborder connectivity providing service to three brand new destinations including Atlanta, San Francisco and Nashville in 2023, alongside nine additional U.S. cities.

Through community engagement and partnership, WestJet has developed a transborder network that provides essential connectivity to the region for business, conventions and major sporting events.

Through travel and trade missions to Minneapolis and Atlanta, WestJet is facilitating connections amongst partners, generating greater two-way tourism opportunities in service of the local economies.

WestJet's new codeshare with Korean Air

Starting next month WestJet's codeshare deal with Korean Air begins, giving Canadians access to six additional cities across four Asian countries from Seoul's Incheon International Airport.  

Through the agreement, passengers will have more opportunities to explore unique transpacific Asian destinations beyond Seoul with a seamless single connection at Incheon ICN and the convenience of booking their entire journey with one ticket, baggage transfers, and earning WestJet Dollars throughout.

New WestJet Codeshare Destinations

Bangkok, Thailand (BKK)

Da Nang, Vietnam (DAD)

Hanoi, Vietnam (HAN)

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (SGN)

Hong Kong, China (HKG)

Singapore (SIN)

"As we prepare for WestJet's inaugural flights between Calgary and Incheon, the timing of this codeshare expansion is ideal.  We are enhancing connectivity to more destinations in Asia for our guests and WestJet Rewards members from one of the world's busiest cities, and Korean Air's global hub" said Jeff Hagen, WestJet Vice-President of Commercial Development and Strategic Partnerships. "Our longstanding reciprocal partnership with Korean Air opens up exciting opportunities for leisure and business travellers to more locations in the Asian continent and offers new guests in Asia access to all of Canada through our global hub in Calgary."

Following the success of WestJet's entry into Asia, the airline recently introduced seasonal service between YYC and ICN. The new route launches on May 17, 2023, and will fly on WestJet's 787 Dreamliner up to three days per week during peak travel periods.

"We are excited to announce an expanded codeshare with our longstanding partner WestJet, offering our valued customers access to a wide range of transpacific destinations," said Tae Joon Kim, Korean Air Senior Vice President and Head of International Affairs & Alliance. "The launch of WestJet's Calgary - Seoul Incheon route will bolster connectivity between Korea and Canada, while our strengthened partnership will seamlessly connect customers to an expanded array of Asian and Canadian cities through our hubs in Incheon and Calgary, respectively."

All WestJet codeshare destinations are now available through WestJet's website, the WestJet app, and travel agent partners, where WestJet Rewards members can earn and redeem WestJet Dollars on their entire journey. Visit WestJet.com for further details.

. Special discount for a limited time! Save up to 30% now. 
 

WestJet acquires Shell Aviation's first Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) available for purchase in Canada

Adds to WestJet's commitment to advancing sustainability framework and ambitious net-zero emissions goals

The Canadian carrier WestJet has confirmed it has purchased the first Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) supplied in Canada by Shell Aviation, marking another milestone in it's mission to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, and signifying another step forward in making Canada's aviation industry more sustainable.

"WestJet is committed to enhancing our position as a first mover in sustainability technologies. Just as we pioneered advancements in Winglets and drag reduction, WestJet proudly stands as the first airline to acquire SAF by Shell in Canada," said Angela Avery, WestJet Group Executive Vice President and Chief People, Corporate and Sustainability Officer. "Thanks to Shell's world-class fuel supply chain and WestJet's proven track record in sustainability, this first step sets the stage for future collaboration and innovation to encourage investments in this important lever for decarbonization."

With the right regulatory and investment environment, SAF remains one of the more viable and scalable in-sector options for reducing emissions in the 2050 timeframe and has the potential to reduce lifecycle emissions by up to 80 per cent when used neat, compared with conventional aviation fuel1. WestJet remains committed to working with government and industry partners toward the establishment of a sustainable, long-term commercial framework for SAF. SAF acquired from Shell Aviation is blended with conventional jet fuel to meet all certification and safety requirements, while requiring no new investments in aircraft engines, fuel infrastructure or distribution processes.

WestJet and Calgary Flames Alumni Association sign two-year partnership

The partnership serves to support affordable youth programming and strengthen ties with local communities

WestJet and the Calgary Flames Alumni Association announced a new two-year partnership focused on unlocking new opportunities to give back to the community through enhanced access to sports for Western Canadian youth.  

"Our partnership with the Calgary Flames Alumni is founded on a mutual passion for engaging with and giving back to our shared hometown," said Jeff Hagen, WestJet, Vice-President, Commercial Development & Strategic Partnerships. "Through our long-standing relationship, we are proud to support the Alumni's initiatives to increase youth participation in sport."

Integral to the enhanced partnership announcement is WestJet's sponsorship of the Calgary Flames Alumni Hockey School, which aims to provide families with affordable access to hockey camp, with the goal of keeping youth in Western Canada active and engaged. Additionally, the camp gives the alumni group the opportunity to engage with school participants and pass down their extensive knowledge of the game.

WestJet to operate new non-stop, twice weekly seasonal service between Fredericton and Calgary

Beginning June 20, 2024, the Canadian airline WestJet will operate a new non-stop, twice-weekly seasonal service between Fredericton and Calgary. 

"The addition of service between Fredericton and Calgary is a testament to our ongoing commitment to deliver on our promise to expand our service in Atlantic Canada through critical east-to-west connectivity, which has been met with strong community support," said Andrew Gibbons, WestJet Vice-President of External Affairs. "The route we are celebrating today will not only foster enhanced business and leisure ties but further strengthen the connection between the vibrant and unique economies in both Fredericton and Calgary."

Route	Frequency	Start Date	End Date	Departure	Arrival
Calgary-Fredericton	2x weekly	June 20	October 28	9:15	17:00
Fredericton-Calgary	2x weekly	June 20	October 28	17:50	20:05

"We're delighted to welcome WestJet's non-stop route from Fredericton to Calgary," said Johanne Gallant, President and CEO of the Fredericton International Airport Authority. "YFC is a growing airport in a thriving region, and this new flight brings the connectivity families, businesses and visitors are looking for."

"WestJet's new Calgary-Fredericton service will be great news to a growing number of Albertans looking to vacation in the Fredericton and the rest of the Maritimes," said David Seabrook, Director of Tourism for the Fredericton Capital Region. "The connections between family and friends in the two provinces are historically very strong and this new route will be great for those wanting to plan a visit to New Brunswick's Capital City this summer."

Summer 2024 schedule reinforces WestJet's leading leisure position for Atlantic Canada

WestJet adds more flights from Winnipeg

This week the Canadian carrier, WestJet celebrated the latest additions to its Winnipeg network, featuring new year-round, daily service to Montreal, as well as increased, daily, year-round service to Ottawa, beginning June 3, 2024. WestJet also announced new highly anticipated seasonal service between Winnipeg and Nashville, set to take off on September 16, 2024, establishing the airline's seventh direct transborder connection out of Manitoba's capital city.

WestJet's ongoing commitment to significantly enhancing Winnipeg's growing network of air connectivity, central to the airline's ambitious growth strategy, was on display today at a special event hosted at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport, attended by the Honourable Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba and Nick Hays, President and CEO, Winnipeg Airports Authority.

Providing choice and convenience for Winnipeg's thriving business community

"We know how critical Ottawa and Montreal are for Winnipeg's business community, and we are thrilled to continue supporting Winnipeg's economic growth through strategic air service," said Mike Scott, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer. "Expanding connectivity for Winnipeg is in direct response to our WestJet Rewards members and loyal business guests' need for reliable and convenient, non-stop service to and from both Ottawa and Montreal."

WestJet achieves significant reductions in aircraft emissions

The Canadian airline WestJet has reported an 11% reduction in its fuel emissions intensity in 2023, compared to 20191. The reductions align with the airline's commitment to responsible growth and the International Civil Aviation Organization's (ICAO) goal for achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The lower aircraft emissions intensity can be attributed to strategic initiatives including fleet modernization and a responsible shift in network planning. By incorporating newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft and optimizing flight routes, WestJet is successfully curtailing its impact on the environment.

"Sustainability has been a core value for WestJet for more than two decades. Our achievements in reducing emissions intensity demonstrates our commitment to climate change and positions WestJet as a leader in Canada with a proven track record in sustainable aviation," said Angela Avery, WestJet Group Executive Vice President and Chief People, Corporate and Sustainability Officer.

WestJet remains committed to sustainable aviation as it strives to find innovative ways to build upon its momentum, while continuing its mandate of providing affordable air travel for Canadians. The airline's current initiatives include progressive fleet modernization plans and advocacy for sustainable aviation fuel production in Canada.

The WestJet Group names Diederik Pen as airline President

Pen to continue to serve as Group Chief Operating Officer reporting to Chief Executive Officer Alexis von Hoensbroech

The WestJet Group today announced the appointment of Diederik Pen as President of WestJet Airlines effective April 1, 2024. As WestJet Group Chief Operating Officer and President of WestJet Airlines, Pen will continue to report to Alexis von Hoensbroech, the WestJet Group's Chief Executive Officer (CEO). As CEO, Alexis von Hoensbroech will continue to maintain overall responsibility for the WestJet Group and its strategic direction.

"Diederik's experience as a respected leader, with a track record of operational success, will be critical as we continue our growth strategy, including the integration of Sunwing Airlines," said von Hoensbroech. "With the largest narrow-body aircraft order book in Canada, it is critical we optimize safe and reliable performance for our business, as we deliver more affordable options and better connectivity to Canadians."

Since joining the WestJet Group in October of 2021, as Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer, Pen has been instrumental in enhancing the operational performance of the Group. Leading operations into recovery, he has been influential across airline operations, inflight, airports, technical operations, labour relations, safety, crew resources and training. As WestJet Group Chief Operating Officer and President of WestJet Airlines, Pen will be responsible for the Group's day-to-day operations, successful labour negotiations and overall operational reliability that WestJet guests expect. He will also assume the role of the Transport Canada Accountable Executive.

WestJet celebrates a decade of flying to Europe with the restart of service between Toronto and Dublin

WestJet is celebrating the return of transatlantic flying between Eastern Canada and Europe.

As Canada's coast-to-coast leisure travel champion, the daily summer seasonal service reaffirms WestJet's commitment to transatlantic connectivity to and from Eastern Canada.

This summer also marks the 10-year anniversary of WestJet's entry into Europe, commemorating the airline's inaugural transatlantic flight between St. John's and Dublin in 2014.

"Service between Toronto and Dublin continues to be an important part of WestJet's story, and we celebrate a decade of service that has strengthened ties between our two countries," said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. "The return of daily seasonal service between Toronto and Dublin gives Canadians the opportunity to immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes, rich culture and warm hospitality of Ireland with the convenience and affordability WestJet is known for."

Route	Frequency	Service start date	Service end date	Departure time (local)	Arrival time (local)
Toronto - Dublin	Daily	March 1	Oct. 13	10:45 p.m.	10:55 a.m.
Dublin - Toronto	Daily	March 2	Oct. 14	12:15 p.m.	3:00 p.m.

Canadian budget carrier Lynx Air to end operations this weekend.

The Canadian budget airline Lynx Air has confirmed it will be halting all operations from 12:01 a.m. MT on Monday, February 26th.  

The airline said the decision to cease operations was a very difficult decision one to make and its management team had worked tirelessly to find a solution to keep going but had encountered several challenges along the way.  "The decision was made quickly to wind down operations while leaving enough time to get our crews and as many of our passengers as possible home." the carrier said. 

Lynx Air had put a lot of work and effort into the growth and expansion over the past two years, in a crowded Canadian commercial aviation industry.  However, the compounding financial pressures associated with inflation, fuel costs, exchange rates, cost of capital, regulatory costs along with the highly competitive marketplace have ultimately proven too be too much for the fledgling airline to conquer.  

Lynx Air advised that it would try to ensure to bring as many of its passengers back home as possible up to its last flights over the weekend. The airline is notifying passengers via email if their flight has been cancelled.  

The airline stated:  "We hope in our absence that our vision to Inspire More Canadians to Fly leaves its mark on our passengers. Offering low fares to inspire Canadians to fly more and to spend more enjoying time with loved ones in beloved destinations was a great privilege. Thank you for supporting us in our journey. - We are thankful for the loyalty of our passengers who value our ultra-low-cost carrier model. We know this is a shock to many and our goal is to make the wind-down of our operations as seamless as possible. It has been a privilege to serve you."

Air Canada said today it will cap fares and add more than 6,000 seats in select markets operated by Lynx Air in response to the airline's announcement that it is suspending operations beginning February 26, 2024. The measures are to provide Lynx Air customers affected by the carrier's shutdown affordable options in the Economy cabin on Air Canada flights for travel within Canada, to the US and to Cancun in Mexico so they can return home or make alternative travel arrangements for planned winter trips.

Canada's other big carrier, WestJet said it was aware that Lynx Air has initiated CCAA proceedings and the resulting news that Lynx intends to cease operations at 12:01 a.m. MT on Monday, February 26, 2024.

It made the following statement,  "We recognize the immediate impact this information has on passengers and employees of Lynx, and we are committed to assisting where we can through a number of actions:

New Bookings: 25% discount, by using discount code WESTJET, on all economy cabin fares on non-stop WestJet routes prviously served by Lynx, for travel between February 22, 2024 and October 26, 2024, booking to be made up until February 29, 2024.

Canadian repatriation for transborder and sun: Fares are capped at $250 plus taxes and fees on all northbound economy cabin fares, on non-stop WestJet routes previously served by Lynx, for travel up until February 29, 2024, booking to be made before February 29, 2024.

All domestic fares on non-stop WestJet routes previously served by Lynx, for travel up until February 29, 2024, will not exceed $500 plus taxes and fees.

All bookings should be made online through westjet.com. WestJet has managed pricing to ensure fares reflect a reduction from what would typically be charged. 

We are communicating closely with government officials and supporting agencies that are also working to address the needs of those impacted."

The Canadian Transport Agency advised Lynx Air passengers the following:

Passengers who are stranded or who have purchased a ticket for future travel with Lynx Air should contact their travel agent or transportation provider as soon as possible to see if it is possible to make alternative arrangements. If not, they may need to secure their own alternative travel arrangements.

Passengers who paid for their tickets by credit card should contact their credit card company to see what they are eligible for.

If travel insurance was purchased, passengers should contact the insurance company to see if their coverage includes such circumstances.

If passengers purchased their travel arrangements from a travel agent that is registered in Ontario, Quebec or British Columbia, they may be eligible for a refund from the provincial government authorities responsible for travel. 

WestJet Group refinances majority of existing term loan facility secured by WestJet Rewards loyalty program and WestJet's brand

WestJet Group Inc. announced that it extended the maturity of the substantial majority of its term loan borrowings to 2031. WestJet did so by entering into a new secured term loan facility, capitalizing on its ratings upgrade and its strong financial performance, which exceeded its pre-COVID earnings.

"We are very pleased with this innovative structure, secured by our loyalty program and brand," said WestJet Group Chief Financial Officer Mike Scott. "This opportunistic refinancing transaction enhances our financial flexibility and was oversubscribed, which is reflective of the strength of the WestJet Rewards Loyalty program and the WestJet brand."

WestJet's liquidity is in excess of $2 billion and its pro forma adjusted net leverage ratio at year-end 2023 was approximately three times adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA).