Category: WestJet

  • WestJet Group strengthens commitment to Québec with expanded leadership role

    Lyne Chayer appointed Vice-President, Québec Guest Experience & Vacations

    MONTRÉAL, Nov. 14, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet Group is pleased to announce a deepening commitment to enhancing the guest experience in the province of Québec and continuing to grow its vacation offerings from the region.

    Lyne Chayer (CNW Group/WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership)
    Lyne Chayer (CNW Group/WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership)

    To strengthen our efforts in this important market, Lyne Chayer has been appointed Vice-President, Québec Guest Experience & Vacations, effective October 16, 2025. In this expanded role, Lyne will continue to oversee Québec tour operations while also serving as the voice of the guest within the province–ensuring that the unique needs and preferences of Québec travellers are well represented across the organization.

    “As we look to our future growth, we know Québec will continue to be an important strategic opportunity for us,” said Samantha Taylor, Chief Guest Experience Officer, WestJet Group. “Given Lyne’s leadership and deep understanding of the Québec market, she will play an essential role in helping us elevate the guest experience and strengthen our presence in the province. Québec remains a key strategic priority, and we’re excited to continue our commitment to this market.”

    The move underscores WestJet’s continued investment in the region and its ambition to grow its market share by delivering exceptional service to both travel agent partners and guests.

    “First and foremost, my goal is to ensure that Québec travellers enjoy the service offered by WestJet, while also making sure the specific needs of our market are well represented within the company,” said Lyne Chayer, Vice-President, Québec Guest Experience & Vacations, WestJet Group. “We’ve been operating successfully in Québec for 18 years, and we remain firmly committed to growing our market share by providing exceptional service to our travel agent partners and our mutual customers.”

    The expanded role will allow WestJet to further tailor its offerings and elevate the guest experience across Québec, ensuring the company continues to meet the region’s unique expectations while delivering on its promise of affordable, high-quality vacations.

    About Sunwing Vacations
    As the leading vacation provider in Canada, Sunwing Vacations offers more vacation packages to the south than any other vacation provider with convenient direct service from cities across Canada to popular sun destinations across the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America. This scale enables Sunwing Vacations to offer customers exclusive deals at top-rated resorts in the most popular vacation destinations. Sunwing Vacations customers benefit from the assistance of our trusted partner in destination, NexusTours, whose representatives greet customers upon arrival and support them throughout their vacation journey. For more information, please visit sunwing.ca.

    About WestJet Vacations Québec
    At WestJet Vacations Québec, we’re committed to offering our customers in Québec exceptional all-inclusive vacations and a seamless travel experience–from the moment of research and booking to the in-flight journey, days spent in destination, and the return home.

    We’re proud to provide amazing travel deals and incredible vacation packages to a wide range of carefully selected destinations and hotels across the Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico, with convenient flights departing from several cities throughout Québec.

    We look forward to helping you create tropical getaways you’ll remember for years to come!
    https://www.vacanceswestjetquebec.com

  • WestJet supports communities impacted by Hurricane Melissa

    12 November 2025

    Airline waives first checked bag fee for guests travelling to support humanitarian efforts

    Hurricane Melissa, the strongest storm of the 2025 Atlantic season has caused widespread devastation across communities in Jamaica and the surrounding area. Jamaica has been a vital destination for WestJet guests, and the deep ties to the island are felt across the organization. The thoughts and heartfelt support of everyone at WestJet and Sunwing are with the people of Jamaica and all those affected by the devastating storm. 

    For more than 10 years, WestJet has worked closely with humanitarian partners to provide critical support where it is needed most. WestJet has committed to showing up in a meaningful way for the communities it serves, through reputable partner organizations who lead response efforts during and after a crisis.  

    “WestJet is honoured to be seen as a trusted partner in times of crisis, and we’re deeply moved by the outpouring of requests to support relief efforts. As we navigate an overwhelming volume of asks, we remain committed to responding in the most effective and meaningful ways,” said April Crane, VP Communications and Engagement, WestJet. “While unsolicited donations of goods are often well-intentioned, they can sometimes complicate coordinated efforts. That’s why we work closely with our trusted partners to understand what is truly needed, be it flights, cargo space, volunteers, or financial support, so we can support the efforts that are needed most.” 

    WestJet’s response to Hurricane Melissa

    In a natural disaster, WestJet activates a coordinated response with internal teams and external partners to ensure the airline can safely and effectively support its people, guests, and communities. WestJet is proud to support GlobalMedic’s emergency response efforts, including: 

    • Aid delivery: GlobalMedic has deployed AquaResponse Systems, Family Emergency Kits, Emergency Food Kits, essential medicines and air scrubbers as well as their RescUAV team to assist with relief efforts. 
    • Cargo support: WestJet Cargo is transporting essential aid items to impacted areas when safe to do so. 
    • Flight support: WestJet has provided flights for emergency personnel and volunteers traveling to the region. 
    • Volunteer support: Close to 40 WestJet Group employees volunteered their time to pack Family Emergency Kits to be sent to Jamaica. 

    Supporting Jamaica, together

    WestJet recognizes that many guests are travelling to Jamaica through volunteer organizations, or to support their own loved ones. As the leading Canadian airline to the region, WestJet is committed to standing with guests that are going above and beyond to care for the community.  

    WestJet is waiving the fee for the first checked bag* for all guests travelling to Kingston and Montego Bay, Jamaica, between November 13 and November 27. For guests with imminent travel plans who have intentions of supporting humanitarian efforts, they may call 1-888-937-8538 to ensure the first baggage fee is waived. Waived fees are only applicable for guests travelling inbound to Jamaica and may be retroactively refunded up to seven days after travel by calling the contact centre. 

    “In moments like these, we are reminded of the strength and compassion of our guests and partners. WestJet is proud to stand alongside those who are stepping up to help. Whether through waived fees, cargo support or emergency flights, we remain committed to doing our part to help Jamaica recover and rebuild,” concluded Crane. 

     *Due to limited cargo capacity to Jamaica and Kingston at this time, baggage may not travel on the same flight as the guest. In these situations, WestJet is committed to delivering baggage on the next available flight.  

  • WestJet Commends Federal Budget 2025 for recognizing aviation as economic driver, supporting affordability

    CALGARY, AB, Nov. 6, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet, a long-time advocate for affordable air travel, is encouraged by the government’s thoughts to unlock the economic potential through increasing the affordability of Canada’s aviation ecosystem.  

    “We commend the government in prioritizing aviation as we look to work together in building a more competitive, inclusive, and resilient Canada,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer, WestJet. “By investing strategically in airport infrastructure and workforce development, Budget 2025 aligns with our vision of a stronger, more connected and more affordable aviation sector.”

    WestJet congratulated the Government of Canada for delivering its 2025 Budget, which outlines critical first steps in a forward-looking plan to improve affordability, modernize infrastructure, and increase competitiveness of Canada’s aviation sector. 

    Thoughtful implementation of measures such as exploring airport lease extensions, private sector investment opportunities, and strategic investment in infrastructure can reduce cost for air passengers, unlock enhanced connectivity for Canadians,  and support economic growth across the country. 

    “We look forward to working with government and industry partners to ensure these commitments translate into meaningful benefits for Canadian travelers and communities,” adds von Hoensbroech. “We are encouraged to see the federal government taking steps that acknowledge the potential that aviation can bring to Canada. Continued collaboration will be essential to address affordability, reduce cost to travellers and drive meaningful benefits for Canadians.”

    About WestJet    

    WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia.  

    As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians. 

  • Onex Partners and its affiliated funds and co-investors close sale of 25 per cent equity stake in WestJet to Delta, Korean Air and Air France-KLM

    CALGARY, AB, Oct. 22, 2025 /CNW/ – Onex Partners and WestJet today announced the successful closing of the sale of minority equity stakes in WestJet to Delta Air Lines, Korean Air and Air France-KLM from Onex Partners, the upper middle market private equity platform of Onex, a Canadian investor and alternative asset manager, and affiliated funds and co-investors (the Onex Group).  

    “Our new partners are widely regarded as among the best-performing and most innovative airlines in the world,” said Tawfiq Popatia, Head of Onex Partners and Board Director at WestJet. “This investment has created a terrific amount of value for Onex Partners and its investors to date, including through the unprecedented headwinds posed by the pandemic. We look forward to building on this track record for all of WestJet’s investors, both new and continuing.”

    The transaction, which was announced on May 9, 2025, closed on October 22, 2025.

    Under the terms of the agreements, Delta Air Lines has acquired a 15 per cent minority equity stake in WestJet from the Onex Group, with Korean Air acquiring a further 10 per cent. Upon closing, and as initially announced, Delta Air Lines sold and transferred a 2.3 per cent stake in WestJet to its Joint Venture partner Air France-KLM. As a result, the respective stakes of the partners stand as follows: Delta Air Lines: 12.7 per cent, Korean Air: 10 per cent, Air France-KLM: 2.3 per cent.

    The Onex Group, which includes Onex Partners and its affiliated funds and co-investors, will continue to own and control WestJet, retaining 75 per cent of the Group’s original investment.

    “This closing marks a milestone in our airline partnerships, building on existing relationships and reflecting confidence in WestJet’s strategy, performance, and people,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer of the WestJet Group. “We are proud to welcome our new airline shareholders and look forward to further strengthening our partnerships with their airlines to create long-term value for guests.”

    About Onex

    Onex invests and manages capital on behalf of its shareholders and clients across the globe. Formed in 1984, we have a long track record of creating value for our clients and shareholders. Our investors include a broad range of global clients, including public and private pension plans, sovereign wealth funds, banks, insurance companies, family offices and high-net-worth individuals. In total, Onex has approximately $55.9 billion in assets under management, of which $8.4 billion is Onex’ own investing capital. With offices in Toronto, New York, New Jersey and London, Onex and its experienced management teams are collectively the largest investors across Onex’ platforms. Onex is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol ONEX.  For more information on Onex, visit its website at www.onex.com. Onex’ security filings can also be accessed at www.sedarplus.com

    About WestJet  

    WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia. 

    As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians. 

    Learn more about WestJet at westjet.com/en-ca/who-we-are

  • WestJet and TELUS unite rewards programs to bring more value to Canadians through linked loyalty platforms

    CALGARY, AB, Oct. 15, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet and TELUS, two of Canada’s most trusted and iconic brands, have linked their loyalty programs to deliver industry-leading value and flexibility to their members. Starting today, WestJet Rewards and TELUS Rewards members who link their accounts can earn, transfer and redeem points across the programs, unlocking exclusive travel and connectivity benefits. They will also automatically receive WestJet seat selection vouchers and TELUS Roaming Passes, helping them travel comfortably and stay connected.

    WestJet and TELUS unite rewards programs to bring more value to Canadians through linked loyalty platforms (CNW Group/WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership)

    The linked loyalty platforms means members who link their accounts can:

    • earn WestJet points on their TELUS bills;
    • redeem WestJet points towards their TELUS services and the TELUS Rewards catalogue; and
    • convert their TELUS Rewards points into WestJet points, unlocking flights, vacation packages and more through the new WestJet Rewards eStore.

    As an added bonus, members who link their accounts before November 30, 2025 will receive a free entry into a contest to win an all-inclusive WestJet vacation for two to Mexico.

    “Together, WestJet and TELUS are showing what’s possible when Canadian companies come together to put members first – prioritizing affordability and enhancing how Canadians earn, redeem and save,” said Steve McClelland, WestJet Vice-President, Loyalty & Strategic Partnerships. “Whether booking WestJet flights and vacations, upgrading TELUS services or staying connected on the go, this partnership empowers Canadians to get more from their rewards with everyday value.”

    Both TELUS and WestJet launched transformed rewards programs in 2025, redefining customer loyalty with enhanced member recognition and value. TELUS unveiled the most comprehensive transformation of TELUS Rewards in the program’s history, now engaging customers from coast-to-coast with a revolutionary tier-based system that rewards customers based on the number of products and services they have, unlocking elevated status and exclusive perks at every level. WestJet announced the most significant enhancements to WestJet Rewards in the program’s 15-year history, making it easier than ever for members to earn and redeem points and save on flights, vacations or enhanced travel experiences.

    “By combining TELUS’ leadership in connectivity with WestJet’s excellence in travel, we’re providing our customers with more value for their loyalty and creating a seamless ecosystem that rewards them in new and meaningful ways,” said Zainul Mawji, Executive Vice-president and President, TELUS Consumer Solutions. “TELUS Rewards members can transform their everyday connectivity into memorable travel experiences, and WestJet Rewards members can redeem their points for TELUS services like innovative streaming bundles, smart home products, internet, mobile phones and more. Together, we’re creating an integrated experience that adds value to how our members live, work and explore.”

    Currently, WestJet Rewards members can enjoy WestJet Wi-Fi, presented by TELUS, delivering high-speed internet on more than 100 of WestJet’s narrowbody aircraft, letting guests stream video, work and stay connected. By the end of 2025, WestJet expects the entire narrowbody fleet in scope will be outfitted with this fast and free Wi-Fi.

    WestJet Rewards and TELUS Rewards members can link their accounts today at either westjet.com/telusrewards or telus.com/my-rewards. For full contest terms and conditions please click here.

    About WestJet    
    WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia.  

    As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians.

  • WestJet announces the renewal of its partnership agreement as the Official Airline of the Toronto Blue Jays

    Airline extends 13-year partnership agreement for an additional seven years

    CALGARY, AB, Oct. 14, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet announces the extension of its partnership agreement with the Toronto Blue Jays as the team’s Official Airline for the next seven years. Since first teaming up in 2012, WestJet has been a fully integrated partner, creating unforgettable experiences for fans by connecting them to games and Blue Jays experiences across Canada and the US, establishing the iconic WestJet Flight Deck at Rogers Centre and TD Ballpark, and supporting Jays Care Foundation through the Gift of Flight.

    WestJet announces the renewal of its partnership agreement as the Official Airline of the Toronto Blue Jays (CNW Group/WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership)

    “The renewal of our longstanding partnership with the Toronto Blue Jays reinforces our commitment to investing in meaningful travel experiences for Canadians,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “As we continue working to bring guests closer to the people and places they love the most, this partnership brings together two iconic Canadian brands and makes it easier for fans across the country to cheer on Canada’s team.”

    As part of a renewed multi-year partnership agreement, WestJet’s presence will continue to be prominently featured throughout Rogers Centre and on broadcast. Fans can expect to see WestJet branding across key stadium locations, including the iconic WestJet Flight Deck, behind home plate, and throughout Spring Training at TD Ballpark in Dunedin, Florida. Additionally, WestJet will remain an iconic part of the Toronto Blue Jays fan experience by continuing to offer engaging in-game promotions for fans to win WestJet Rewards points, contests and opportunities for WestJet Rewards Members to unlock exclusive offers, unique experiences and benefits. These activations build on WestJet’s longstanding tradition of surprising and delighting fans throughout the season.

    With service between Toronto and more than 21 Canadian and US destinations, WestJet is reaffirming its commitment to connecting fans from across Canada, bringing them closer to the game they love. In light of this renewal, keep an eye on the skies in 2026 for something exciting in celebration of the Toronto Blue Jays 50th Season and WestJet’s 30th Anniversary.

    “We are thrilled to renew our partnership with WestJet today for another seven years as we continue working together to bring Blue Jays fans from across Canada closer to the game they love,” said Mark Ditmars, Toronto Blue Jays Vice President, Partnerships.

    About WestJet  

    WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia. 

    As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians. 

  • SKY-HIGH STREAMING ALERT: WestJet equips its 100th aircraft with WestJet Wi-Fi, presented by TELUS, free for WestJet Rewards members

    CALGARY, AB, Oct. 9, 2025 /CNW/ – The sky is no longer the limit for binge-watchers, remote workers, online shoppers or social media scrollers. Today, WestJet is celebrating a sky-high milestone: 100 of its 737 aircraft now offer WestJet Wi-Fi presented by TELUS. That’s right — WestJet now leads the pack with the world’s largest fleet of 737 Starlink-equipped aircraft, a feat no other airline in the world has achieved among its mainline fleet.

    “We’re entering a new era of inflight internet in Canada, giving our guests the power to unlock world-class connectivity from 35,000 feet,” said Samantha Taylor, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Experience Officer. “This is a real game-changer for our guests, and we are proud to be the only airline in Canada offering this cutting-edge technology on its mainline fleet.”

    Buckle up, log on and prepare for takeoff

    WestJet Wi-Fi, presented by TELUS, is free for WestJet Rewards members and will radically transform the way guests on board can browse, stream, swipe and work from the sky, just like they would at home, and they can do so from the moment they board the plane until they walk out the door at their destination.

    The rollout, delivered by Starlink, featuring high-speed and ultra-low latency, has been flying at full speed since February 2025 and is soaring ahead of schedule. The airline intends to complete installation on all its Boeing 737-800 and 737-8 MAX aircraft by the end of 2025.

    “Since installation began, we have been hearing from guests how they love the connectivity,” adds Taylor. “We love to see those posts and want to see more!”

    For the rest of the month, WestJet and Sunwing guests logging into WestJet Wi-Fi, presented by TELUS, will be encouraged to share their Wi-Fi experience. Additionally, to celebrate the milestone of the 100th installation, WestJet may be surprising select guests with WestJet points and flights until the end of October.

    About WestJet 

    WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia. 

    As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians. 

    Learn more about WestJet at westjet.com/en-ca/who-we-are 

  • WestJet Provides Notice of Data Incident to United States Residents

    CALGARY, AB, Sept. 29, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet, an Alberta Partnership and Canadian commercial airline headquartered in Calgary, Alberta (“WestJet”), is providing notice to United States residents of a recent cybersecurity incident that may affect certain individuals’ personal information.

    On June 13, 2025, WestJet identified suspicious activity on its systems. WestJet immediately began its investigation and determined that these were the actions of a sophisticated, criminal third party, who gained unauthorized access to WestJet’s systems.

    Given the significant importance of data security to the integrity of its business, WestJet was prepared for incidents of this nature and followed its response planning by taking immediate action to contain the incident and secure its systems. As a result, at no point was the safety and integrity of WestJet’s airline operations in question.

    WestJet engaged internal and external experts to perform a technical and forensic investigation to identify the nature and scope of the event. Unfortunately, WestJet confirmed that certain data was obtained from its systems. Since making that determination, WestJet diligently conducted an extensive analysis of that data to identify specific data elements and locate current contact information for certain United States residents who were impacted. As of September 15, 2025, WestJet completed that analysis and as a result is providing this notice. Due to WestJet’s internal precautionary measures, no credit card or debit card numbers, expiry dates and CVV numbers, and no guest user passwords were obtained.

    The personal information involved in this incident varies from person to person. For most individuals, the type of personal information involved was not sensitive. However, for certain individuals the data may include information such as name, contact details, information and documents provided in connection with their reservation and travel, and data regarding their relationship with WestJet. In line with regulatory requirements, WestJet has identified those individuals who it will contact to provide information and support regarding this incident where WestJet has sufficient contact information. For more information, WestJet has also posted additional information and guidance on its website.

    Given the criminal nature of this incident, WestJet closely cooperated with law enforcement, including the US Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, and has notified the relevant authorities, including the US credit reporting agencies (TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax), the applicable Attorneys General of the US States with impacted residents, Transport Canada, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada and its provincial and international counterparts as appropriate.

    Containment is complete, and some additional system and data security measures have been implemented. However, analysis is ongoing, and WestJet will continue to take measures to further enhance its cybersecurity protocols.

    In addition, WestJet retained the assistance of Cyberscout, a TransUnion company, in providing impacted individuals with fraud assistance and remediation services. If you received an email or letter notice about this incident directly from WestJet, that notice sets out the types of personal information about you that may have been involved in this incident and provides information on how to access identity theft protection services.

    If you were not contacted by WestJet directly and would like to know whether your data was involved, please contact WestJet at 1-888-937-8538 or wjresponseteam@westjet.com.

    WestJet encourages individuals to remain vigilant against incidents of identity theft and fraud, to review account statements, and monitor free credit reports for suspicious activity. Out of an abundance of caution, if potentially affected individuals would like to take additional measures to protect against identity theft, the Federal Trade Commission provides general advice here: https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/identity-theft.

    We sincerely regret this situation, and we remain grateful for the support and patience of the thousands of guests and WestJetters who place their trust in us.

  • Canadian airline WestJet selects JLL as integrated facilities manager

    JLL providing FM services and more for HQ and airport sites for Canada’s second largest airline

    TORONTO, Sept. 29, 2025 /CNW/ — JLL announced today that it has been selected by WestJet, Canada’s leading low-cost airline and second-largest carrier, to provide facilities management services across a 1.9-million-square-foot portfolio that includes the airline’s corporate headquarters in Calgary and 17 airport locations nationwide.

    JLL’s Aviation group, led by Managing Director Koley MacKay, is responsible for the execution and strategic sourcing across the entire spectrum of soft and hard facility services, including building, electrical, elevator and HVAC maintenance; fire and life safety; janitorial; landscaping and grounds maintenance; and waste disposal and recycling services. JLL will also provide Project and Development services upon request.

    The JLL team aims to revolutionize aviation standards by delivering cost savings, enhancing operational efficiency and providing WestJet with comprehensive, adaptive facilities management services that respond to the evolving demands of the aviation industry. To achieve this, JLL is deploying a full suite of cutting-edge tools, including JLL Corrigo with a call center, Azara, JAGGAER, Avetta and more, to efficiently manage and monitor work and drive savings in purchasing and sourcing.

    “Our employees and our guests are at the heart of everything we do, and we want to ensure every workplace and operational environment across our network to reflect the comfort, safety and reliability that WestJet is known for,” said Doug Townsend, Senior Manager, Corporate Real Estate at WestJet. “Partnering with JLL strengthens our ability to manage a complex, nationwide portfolio with consistency, efficiency and innovation. Their proven aviation expertise and advanced tools will help us deliver reliable, cost-effective corporate real estate and facilities operations while elevating the experience for our employees and our guests.”

    JLL Account Lead Winnie Buchanan and Operations Director Jeff Anderson are managing the day-to-day operations and leading a team of FM experts across the WestJet sites. JLL Solutions Development Principal Michael Colligan and the Aviation support team are aiding in support and the transition.

    “We’re thrilled to partner with WestJet to deliver world-class facilities management services that will support their continued growth and operational excellence,” MacKay said. “Our specialized aviation expertise, combined with our innovative technology platform and dedicated team, positions us to help WestJet optimize their facilities operations while reducing costs and enhancing the passenger and employee experience across their extensive network.”

    “As a proudly Canadian firm, WestJet represents a significant milestone in JLL’s continued expansion across Canada’s dynamic commercial real estate market,” added Scott Barras, Head of Work Dynamics Canada at JLL. “As businesses adapt to evolving workplace dynamics and operational requirements, we’re seeing increased demand for sophisticated facilities management solutions that can scale with growth. WestJet’s selection of JLL reflects our ability to deliver innovative, technology-driven services that support Canada’s leading companies as they navigate the changing landscape of workplace and operational excellence.”

    JLL’s Industrials division is the premier provider of strategic real estate advisory for aviation authorities, airlines, cargo operators and airport-related enterprises. Its specialized aviation team covers the entire real estate lifecycle from strategic portfolio planning, public-private partnerships and facilities management to transaction services, project management and operational optimization. With deep expertise in airport infrastructure, cargo facilities, maintenance hangars and aviation support services, JLL brings both the industry knowledge and global reach to transform aviation real estate portfolios into high-performing assets that enhance operational efficiency, maximize revenue potential and reduce total occupancy costs while meeting stringent regulatory and safety requirements.

    About WestJet
    WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia. 

    As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians. 

    About JLL
    For over 200 years, JLL (NYSE: JLL), a leading global commercial real estate and investment management company, has helped clients buy, build, occupy, manage and invest in a variety of commercial, industrial, hotel, residential and retail properties. A Fortune 500 company with annual revenue of $23.4 billion and operations in over 80 countries around the world, our more than 112,000 employees bring the power of a global platform combined with local expertise. Driven by our purpose to shape the future of real estate for a better world, we help our clients, people and communities SEE A BRIGHTER WAYSM. JLL is the brand name, and a registered trademark, of Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. For further information, visit jll.com

  • WestJet and Hope Air’s annual ‘Haul for Hope’ takes off in Calgary with record-breaking participation

    Twenty-one teams from across Calgary compete to haul 67,000-pound aircraft, raising money for Canadian families in need of medical care far from home

    CALGARY, AB, Sept. 24, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet celebrates Hope Air’s annual Haul for Hope in Calgary today with a record number of all WestJet employee teams competing to haul a 67,000-pound Q400 aircraft to raise money for Hope Air. Of the total teams in Calgary competing, 10 of them are comprised of WestJet employees from across all areas of the business, signifying care and commitment to community investment.

    WestJet and Hope Air’s annual ‘Haul for Hope’ takes off in Calgary  with record-breaking participation (CNW Group/WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership)

    “I am proud to once again participate in Hope Air’s Haul for Hope alongside 260 fellow participants who share in our commitment to provide Canadians in financial need access vital medical care far from home,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Chief Executive Officer. “Our longstanding partnership with Hope Air is a testament to how essential air travel is in Canada and with 41 domestic destinations across WestJet’s network, we are proud to support Hope Air in their mission to make it easier for Canadians to access vital medical care.”

    “We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible energy, teamwork, and generosity at our final Haul for Hope in Calgary,” said Mark Rubinstein, CEO of Hope Air. “Thanks to WestJet, our amazing participants, and the Calgary International Airport (YYC) community, this event will have a direct impact on the patients and families who rely on Hope Air to access life-saving medical care far from home. Together, we’ve proven that when a community comes together, distance and cost don’t have to be barriers to care.”

    “YYC Calgary International Airport connects Canadians across the country and around the world,” said Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO, Calgary Airports. “We’re proud to join with WestJet to raise funds for Hope Air, to support access to critical health care for everyone.” 

    Since 2007, WestJet and Hope Air have partnered to provide thousands of flights for Canadian families in need of medical care and fundraised thousands of dollars for Hope Air through the gift of flight, signifying the transformative impact of this partnership.

    About WestJet       
    WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia.     

    As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians.