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Category: Swoop

  • The WestJet Group marks successful integration of ultra-low-cost airline Swoop

    CALGARY, AB, Oct. 30, 2023 /CNW/ – Over the weekend, the WestJet Group completed the integration of its ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC), Swoop, into WestJet’s existing 737 operations. With the integration now complete, WestJet will leverage the successes and learnings from five years of operating Canada’s first ULCC across its growing airline to enhance its ability to serve a broader spectrum of guests. Instead of serving the ultra-low-cost market on only 16 aircraft, the airline’s 180 strong fleet will transition to offer ultra-affordable travel options through to a premium inflight experience on each of its aircraft.

    “As the first ULCC to enter the Canadian market, in 2018 Swoop pioneered the no-frills product in Canada and was best-in-class in generating ancillary revenues,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group Chief Executive Officer. “By keeping costs low, Swoop was able to offer the most competitive fares and appeal to Canadian travellers of all demographics. As we conclude this integration, we will learn from Swoop’s successes to best serve our guests with diversified product offerings that meet a variety of needs.”

    After five years of operating a true ULCC in Canada, WestJet’s experience is crucial for its low-cost strategic approach. With the largest narrow-body order book in the country, the airline is set to utilize Swoop’s ultra-low cost product, offering low fares and a range of affordable vacation packages across its narrow body fleet. WestJet’s plan includes densifying the rear section of its 737 aircraft, while retaining a premium cabin up front, enabling them to provide a spectrum of in-flight offerings, from ultra-low-cost to premium, on every plane in its fleet.

    “We want to commend all current and former Swoop employees on a job well done. Thank you for your hard work, commitment and passion that made Swoop possible,” concluded von Hoensbroech.  

    About the WestJet Group

    WestJet took to the skies in 1996, cutting airfares in half and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Today, the WestJet Group is comprised of Canada’s leading low-cost airline and Canada’s largest vacations provider, sharing a common purpose of bringing affordable travel to Canadians. Inclusive of WestJet, Sunwing Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group, and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group’s 14,000 employees serve 37 communities across Canada, with service to 74 destinations in 27 countries. WestJet Cargo uses WestJet’s aircraft and a dedicated fleet of Boeing 737-800 converted freighters to provide air cargo services to a diverse range of customers.

    For more information about everything WestJet, please visit westjet.com. 

  • Last Day for Swoop Airlines

    28 October 2023 – FlySwoop on X

    Today we mark Swoop’s final day of operation, celebrating 5 years of ultra-low cost flights. As we merge with WestJet, we look forward to new adventures ahead. Thanks to the loyal Swoop travellers for their support. Find us on the Teal side of things at

  • The WestJet Group bolsters commitment to accessible air and leisure travel through integration of Sunwing Airlines and Swoop

    Tour operator Sunwing Vacations to continue its independent operation, joining forces with WestJet Vacations to offer most affordable packaged tours to Canadians

    CALGARY, AB, June 19, 2023 /CNW/ – The WestJet Group today confirmed future plans to provide reliable and affordable travel to a broader spectrum of guests and communities across Canada and beyond, through combining the best of every airline across the WestJet Group, including Sunwing Airlines and Swoop into one product offering.

    “We are confident that the future integration of Sunwing Airlines into the WestJet Group, following that of our ultra-low-cost carrier Swoop will significantly enhance our ability to provide affordability and choice to our guests,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group, Chief Executive Officer. “The integration of all jets from Sunwing Airlines, Swoop and WestJet into one fleet will provide us with the scale to enhance our collective operational resilience, while offering more affordable fares and vacation opportunities across our entire network.”

    While the integration of Swoop is anticipated to conclude by the end of October 2023, Sunwing Airlines will not start integrating before 2024 and remains business as usual at this time. 

    The tour operator business, Sunwing Vacations and WestJet Vacations together will form the leading tour operator in Canada and will continue to operate independently under their existing and respective brands, as integral parts of the WestJet Group. As a result, both Sunwing Vacations and WestJet Vacations will significantly expand vacation offerings to even more communities across its extensive network as well as offering affordable vacation packages from communities in Canada on a year-round basis, which were previously seasonal.

    Furthermore, through leveraging the ultra-low fare products pioneered by Swoop and affordable vacation packages offered by Sunwing Vacations, the WestJet Group will begin providing ultra-affordable fares and increased affordable vacation packages across Canada through the entirety of its 180 aircraft.

    “Competition amongst air carriers in Canada has never been healthier and after a challenging three years, aviation is back, with passenger traffic doubling in Canada since March 2022,” continued von Hoensbroech. “As the strongest airline in Western Canada and the biggest vacation provider across the entire country – the integration of Swoop and eventually Sunwing Airlines into the WestJet Group will enhance affordability and serve to increase choice for Canadians for their air travel and vacation plans.”

    About WestJet

    In 27 years of serving Canadians, WestJet has cut airfares in half and increased the flying population in Canada to more than 50 per cent. WestJet launched in 1996 with three aircraft, 250 employees and five destinations, growing over the years to more than 180 aircraft, 14,000 employees and more than 110 destinations in 24 countries.

  • WestJet Group and ALPA agreement ratified

    Airline to begin integration of ultra-low-cost subsidiary, Swoop into WestJet

    CALGARY, AB, June 9, 2023 /CNW/ – Today, the second collective bargaining agreement between WestJet and the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), the certified union representing WestJet and Swoop pilots, was ratified.

    “The WestJet Group is pleased to have reached an industry-leading agreement in negotiation with ALPA that recognizes the value and instrumental contributions of our current and future pilots,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group, Chief Executive Officer. “This agreement bolsters our ability to provide certainty and career opportunities across our organization for years to come while ensuring the competitive sustainability of the WestJet Group.”

    The agreement is in effect from January 1, 2023, and will be in place until December 31, 2026.  

    As negotiated in the collective agreement, the WestJet Group will now begin integration efforts of its ultra-low-cost airline, Swoop. Through an expedited process, the airline anticipates a full integration into its mainline operations by the end of October. To avoid traveller impact, Swoop will operate its existing network through to the end of its published schedule on October 28. Swoop employees will move to WestJet.

    “The WestJet Group is confident in the outcome of this negotiated decision and the path forward to integrate Swoop into WestJet’s operations,” continued von Hoensbroech. “We continue our strategy toward providing reliable, affordable travel across the WestJet Group, leveraging the valuable experiences and learnings from the Swoop business model. This integration will enhance our ability to serve a broader spectrum of guests. Instead of only 16 aircraft serving the ultra-low-cost market, each aircraft, in our 180-strong fleet, will offer ultra-affordable travel options through to a premium inflight experience.”

    The WestJet Group is committed to ongoing engagement with valued communities and stakeholders to ensure that the airline continues to provide critical and affordable air travel to communities across Canada.

    About WestJet

    In 27 years of serving Canadians, WestJet has cut airfares in half and increased the flying population in Canada to more than 50 per cent. WestJet launched in 1996 with three aircraft, 250 employees and five destinations, growing over the years to more than 180 aircraft,14,000 employees and more than 110 destinations in 24 countries.

  • The WestJet Group begins flight cancellations in anticipation of WestJet and Swoop pilot strike

    WestJet Encore and Link service to continue through disruption 

    CALGARY, AB, May 18, 2023 /CNW/ – As the WestJet Group prepares for labour action by WestJet and Swoop pilots, the airline has started taking down its network. This action ensures the airline can avoid abandoning aircraft in remote locations without support and enables the proactive communication with guests and crew to minimize the potential for being stranded. The decision to cancel flights comes as the WestJet Group remains in a stalemate with the union regarding unreasonable wage expectations that if realized would permanently damage the financial viability of the group’s future.  

    “We are extremely disheartened to find ourselves in a place where we have to activate our contingency plan and subsequent takedown of our network as a result of the strike notice served by ALPA and their inability to accept a reasonable offer. We deeply regret the disruption this will have on the travel plans of our guests and the communities and businesses that rely on our critical air service,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer, the WestJet Group. “We remain at a critical impasse with the union and have been left with no choice but to begin taking the painful steps of preparing for the reality of a work stoppage.”  

    Given that a tentative agreement has not yet been reached, the WestJet Group is parking the majority of its 737 and 787 fleet, in a measured, phased and safe approach. WestJet Encore, WestJet Link as well as limited 737 flights will continue to operate during this time. 

    “We remain at the bargaining table, unequivocally committed to achieving a deal as soon as possible, but are equally ready to weather labour action for as long as it takes to arrive at a reasonable outcome,” continued von Hoensbroech. “Any guest impact is too high of a cost in the wake of these negotiations and we sincerely apologize that valued guests were caught in the middle of an avoidable conflict.” 

    Guests travelling are advised to check the status of their flight prior to leaving for the airport. Please visit WestJet’s Guest Updates page or Swoop’s information hub for more information regarding flight status, travel changes and more. 

    About WestJet    

    In 27 years of serving Canadians, WestJet has cut airfares in half and increased the flying population in Canada to more than 50 per cent. WestJet launched in 1996 with three aircraft, 250 employees and five destinations, growing over the years to more than 180 aircraft, 14,000 employees and more than 110 destinations in 24 countries.

  • Swoop Celebrates Return of Non-Stop Flights to Orlando International Airport

    The Ultra-not-expensive airline restarts non-stop service from Hamilton International Airport to Orlando International Airport

    HAMILTON, ON, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ – On Saturday, Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost airline, celebrated its first flight since 2020 to Orlando International Airport (MCO). Swoop is cementing its position as the leading sun-flying ULCC, providing year-round service to Canadians’ favourite destinations across the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean.

    “As Canada’s number one sun-flying ultra-low-cost airline, we are thrilled to offer our Hamiltonian’s year-round flights to Orlando International Airport,” said Bob Cummings, President of Swoop. “We know residents of southern Ontario value affordable connectivity to Florida so we’re proud to be unlocking year-round service to Orlando.” 

    Swoop recently published a new summer schedule, extending service to key leisure markets, with connectivity year-round. In addition to the service to Orlando, Swoop will also be offering non-stop flights from southern Ontario to Las Vegas, Cancun, Kingston and Montego Bay in Jamaica, Punta Cana and Varadero.

    Canadians can unlock exclusive discounts at all-inclusive resorts when they book their ultra-not-expensive flight as part of a Swoop Getaway. For added convenience, hundreds of amazing all-inclusive packages to warm and sunny destinations with low Swoop prices are also now available through WestJetVacations.com. 

    “We’re thrilled that travellers can continue to take advantage of ultra-low-cost flights to Florida this summer as Swoop resumes its service between Hamilton and Orlando International Airport (MCO). By spending less on airfare with Swoop, travellers can experience more in-destination and enjoy Orlando’s wide range of attractions, world-famous theme parks and sunny landscapes. Your summer getaway ‘Starts Here’ with convenience and ease from Hamilton International!” – Colleen Ryan – Associate Director, Marketing, Communications & Customer Experience

    “Orlando International warmly welcomes the return of Swoop passengers and is glad Swoop is resuming its service,” said Vicki Jaramillo, Chief Development Officer for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which operates Orlando International Airport. “Resuming this service improves connectivity between Orlando and Hamilton just in time for summer travel.” 

    With one-way all-in prices from Hamilton to Orlando International Airport starting at just $99 CAD†, Swoop is showing Canadians just how affordable a vacation can be any time of the year. 

    Route Peak Weekly
    Frequency      		One-way total
    price (CAD)      		Base Fare (CAD)  Taxes & Fees (CAD)  
    Hamilton to Orlando
    (MCO)     		2x weekly $99.00$2.89$96.11
    Hamilton to Las Vegas 4x weekly $99.00$2.89$96.11
    Hamilton to Cancun  3x weekly  $129.00$21.53$107.47
    Toronto to CancunDaily$139.00$20.24$118.76
    Toronto to Montego Bay3x weekly$149.00$21.29$127.81
    Toronto to Kingston3x weekly$189.00$61.19$127.81
    Toronto to Punta Cana3x weekly$179.00$54.84$124.91
    Toronto to Varadero3x weekly$159.00$34.09$124.91

    †Everyday low fares terms and conditions: Seasonal start and end dates apply and are indicated in the booking flow. | Fares are valid until May 9, 2023, or while seats last. | Prices displayed are subject to change and are not guaranteed until payment is made and accepted. | Seats at these fares are limited and may not be available on all flights. | Non-refundable. | Fares are valid on new online web bookings only. | Learn more about baggage and optional fees at www.FlySwoop.com/Optional-Services-and-Fees.

    About Swoop

    Swoop is on a mission to make travel more affordable and accessible for all Canadians. Established in 2018 as an independent subsidiary of the WestJet Group of Companies, Swoop is Canada’s ultra-not-expensive airline. Offering scheduled service to destinations in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, Swoop’s unbundled fares put travellers in control of purchasing only the products and services they desire. 

    Swoop’s fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft expanded in 2022 to add six Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, for a total of 16 aircraft. 

    At FlySwoop.com travellers can quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, and track flights. 

  • Swoop Announces New Domestic Routes Coming This Spring with Increased Frequencies and Connectivity

    Swoop Announces New Domestic Routes Coming This Spring with Increased Frequencies and Connectivity

    The ultra-not-expensive airline looks forward to connecting Canadians from coast to coast this summer with new routes and added capacity

    CALGARY, AB, March 6, 2023 /CNW/ – Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost airline, is excited to announce its expanded summer schedule, with several new routes and added flight frequencies, offering Canadians more affordable options for domestic travel.

    “As Canada’s leading ultra-not-expensive airline, we’re proud to be expanding our footprint from coast to coast with our summer schedule,” said Bob Cummings, President of Swoop. “Convenience and affordability are paramount, so we’re focusing our ultra-not-expensive flights in true ULCC markets that enable more Canadians to explore their big, beautiful backyard.”

    As part of this summer’s domestic expansion, Swoop will be adding new service between London, ON (YXU) and Abbotsford (YXX), and will restart seasonal service between Hamilton (YHM) and Charlottetown (YYG). The ULCC will also return popular service to Deer Lake, NL (YDF) with enhanced connectivity from southern Ontario, with flights operating six times weekly from Hamilton (YHM) and Toronto (YYZ).

    “This summer we’re thrilled to add significant frequencies on our top performing routes,” continued Cummings. “With daily service in many key leisure markets, we’re making it easier than ever for Canadians access our ultra-convenient and ultra-affordable flights.”

    Swoop is also signalling that winter is not over yet, with new seasonal extensions for its most popular sun-flying routes. Canadians can escape to the beach through the end of June with ultra-not-expensive flights from Edmonton (YEG) and Abbotsford (YXX) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR) and Los Cabos (SJD) for as low as $119.00 CAD all-in one-way*.

    “The London International Airport is thrilled to announce non-stop service to beautiful Abbotsford, British Columbia with Swoop this summer” said Scott McFadzean, President and CEO of the London International Airport. “London and the surrounding region continue to look for more exciting destinations directly from YXU’s easy and comfortable airport. We’re looking forward to the spring and the launch of Abbotsford service with Swoop.”

    “We are excited to welcome Swoop back for its second year to Deer Lake for the Summer 2023. Swoop provides affordable air travel, making it easier for families and friends to reconnect more often from Hamilton and Toronto, Ontario with opportunity for connection beyond. It increases access for tourists to take in the many great experiences we offer in Western Newfoundland & Labrador.” said Tammy Priddle President and CEO Deer Lake Regional Airport. “2022 was a great season with Swoop and we are confident 2023 will be another terrific year for travellers to start their adventures with Swoop at YDF”.

    Swoop’s fleet growth in 2022 has enabled the ULCC to grow its presence across Canada, with a strong focus in Atlantic Canada where affordable air travel options are lean. Swoop will operate daily flights from southern Ontario into Halifax (YHZ) and St. John’s (NL) and near daily flights to Charlottetown (YYG). West coast connectivity will continue to soar with a 67% increase in flights operating to Abbotsford (YXX).

    With one-way all-in prices starting from just $39 CAD*, there’s never been a better time to start planning a great Canadian adventure.

    RoutePeak
    Weekly
    Frequency    		Lowest one-
    way total
    price (CAD)    		Base
    Fare
    (CAD)    		Taxes &
    Fees (CAD)
    Hamilton to Deer Lake2x weekly$59.00$15.23$43.77
    Deer Lake to Hamilton2x weekly$59.00$16.14$42.86
    Toronto to Deer Lake4x weekly$79.00$28.84$50.16
    Deer Lake to Toronto4x weekly$79.00$32.62$46.38
    Hamilton to Charlottetown3x weekly$59.00$16.14$42.87
    Charlottetown to Hamilton3x weekly$49.00$11.53$37.47
    London to Abbotsford4x weekly$49.00$25.29$23.71
    Abbotsford to London4x weekly$39.00$22.84$16.16
    Toronto to Los Cabos2x weekly$179.00$65.88$113.12
    Edmonton to Los Cabos2x weekly$119.00$8.68$113.32
    Abbotsford to Los Cabos1x weekly$109.00$35.43$73.57
    Edmonton to Puerto Vallarta2x weekly$139.00$28.66$110.34
    Abbotsford to Puerto Vallarta2x weekly$119.00$55.43$73.57

    *Seasonal start and end dates apply and are indicated in the booking flow. | Fares are valid until March 7, 2023 or while seats last. | Prices displayed are subject to change and are not guaranteed until payment is made and accepted. | Seats at these fares are limited, and may not be available on all flights. | Non-refundable.

    About Swoop

    Swoop is on a mission to make travel more affordable and accessible for all Canadians. Established in 2018 as an independent subsidiary of the WestJet Group of Companies, Swoop is Canada’s ultra-not-expensive airline. Offering scheduled service to destinations in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, Swoop’s unbundled fares put travellers in control of purchasing only the products and services they desire.   

    Swoop’s fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft expanded in 2022 to add six Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, for a total of 16 aircraft.  

    At FlySwoop.com travellers can quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, and track flights.

  • Swoop Announces Launch of the Warmest Hoodie Ever: The First Hoodie that’s a Plane Ticket South*

    Swoop Announces Launch of the Warmest Hoodie Ever: The First Hoodie that’s a Plane Ticket South*

    Canada’s leading ULCC releases $99* hoodies that come with a round-trip flight to the beach. Expensive for a hoodie, cheap for a flight.

    CALGARY, AB, Feb. 22, 2023 /CNW/ – Today, Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost airline announced the launch of a clothing line called Swoopwear, with an innovative debut product, coined “The Warmest Hoodie Ever.” While the hoodie itself is a simple cotton and polyester blend, it’s “the warmest ever” because each limited-edition hoodie comes with round-trip airfare to a warm and sunny destination of the purchaser’s choice—giving Canadians an easy and affordable escape when winter is at its peak.https://youtu.be/SHWw-YkH3M0

    https://youtu.be/SHWw-YkH3M0

    “As Canada’s leading ULCC, our travellers often remark on how their Swoop flights cost less than “a pair of designer jeans” or “a tank of gas”. We decided to bring this concept to life with the introduction of the Warmest Hoodie Ever to remind Canadians how easy and affordable it is to find the perfect beach vacation with Swoop: Just scan, fly, beach.”

    Swoop offers more sun-flying routes than any other Canadian ULCC, boasting over 100 flights weekly to 13 beautiful vacation destinations. With the Warmest Hoodie Ever, Canadians can fly roundtrip to destinations across the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean for the low price of $99*.

    “It’s safe to say most Canadians dream about hitting the beach at some point during the winter. The Warmest Hoodie Ever makes it easier and more affordable than ever – reinforcing Swoop’s core brand values.” – David Giovando, Group Creative Director, OLIVER

    Swoop is only selling 100 hoodies, but Canadians can always access ultra-convenient flights to sunny beach getaways at ultra-not-expensive fares. Canadians can also unlock exclusive discounts on vacation packages at all-inclusive resorts when they book their ultra-not-expensive flight as part of a Swoop Getaway. For added convenience, Swoop flights to warm and sunny destinations are also available through WestJet Vacations.

    *We’re kind of joking, all hoodies are warm, but this one gets you a $500 flight voucher, which can buy you a plane ticket somewhere warm with Swoop. The Warmest Hoodie ever is $99 CAD before tax and quantities are limited to 100 hoodies. Full terms and conditions here.

    About Swoop

    Swoop is on a mission to make travel more affordable and accessible for all Canadians. Established in 2018 as an independent subsidiary of the WestJet Group of Companies, Swoop is Canada’s ultra-not-expensive airline. Offering scheduled service to destinations in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, Swoop’s unbundled fares put travellers in control of purchasing only the products and services they desire.   

    Swoop’s fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft expanded in 2022 to add six Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, for a total of 16 aircraft.  

    At FlySwoop.com travellers can quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, and track flights.  

  • Swoop Celebrates Restart of Non-Stop Flights between Hamilton and Montego Bay

    Swoop Celebrates Restart of Non-Stop Flights between Hamilton and Montego Bay

    Offering more than 100 scheduled sun flights per week, Swoop is Canada’s leading ULCC for fun in the sun

    HAMILTON, ON, Jan. 30, 2023 /CNW/ – Over the weekend, Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost airline, operated the last of its seasonal restarts with Saturday’s non-stop flight from Hamilton to Montego Bay. This winter Swoop offers more than 100 sun flight options per week so Canadians can escape the cold and enjoy beach vacations at affordable prices.

    “As Canada’s leading ultra-low fare airline, we are thrilled to bring back our popular service between Hamilton and Montego Bay as part of our historic winter expansion,” said Bob Cummings, President of Swoop. “With demand for leisure travel at an all-time high across Canada, we are excited to be leading the ULCC market for sun flying, enabling Hamiltonians to escape to warmer climates this winter.”

    Swoop has expanded its winter schedule to include over 100 sun flights per week to destinations across the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean. As of today, Swoop offers eight sun-flying routes from Hamilton with 24 flights per week, providing travellers flexibility and convenience at an ultra-low price.

    Canadians can unlock exclusive discounts at all-inclusive resorts when they book their ultra-not-expensive flight as part of a Swoop Getaway. For added convenience, hundreds of amazing all-inclusive packages to warm and sunny destinations with low Swoop prices are also now available through WestJet Vacations.

    With one-way all-in prices to sunny escapes starting at just $99 CAD†, Swoop is showing Canadians just how affordable a sunny vacation can be this winter.  

    Route Peak Weekly Frequency One-way total price (CAD) Base Fare (CAD) Taxes & Fees (CAD) 
    Hamilton to Fort Lauderdale 2x weekly$99.00$6.92$89.13
    Hamilton to Montego Bay2x weekly$159.00$47.33$111.67
    Hamilton to Cancun 2x weekly $139.00$38.36$97.70
    Hamilton to Las Vegas4x weekly $129.00$35.49$90.56
    Hamilton to Orlando7x weekly$99.00$6.92$89.13
    Hamilton to Puerto Vallarta2x weekly$159.00$58.35$97.70
    Hamilton to St. Pete-Clearwater3x weekly$109.00$16.44$89.61
    Hamilton to Punta Cana2x weekly$199.00$90.68$108.32
    †Seasonal start and end dates apply and are indicated in the booking flow. | Fares are valid until January 31, 2023 or while seats last. | Prices displayed are subject to change and are not guaranteed until payment is made and accepted.


    About Swoop
    Swoop is on a mission to make travel more affordable and accessible for all Canadians. Established in 2018 as an independent subsidiary of the WestJet Group of Companies, Swoop is Canada’s ultra-not-expensive airline. Offering scheduled service to destinations in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, Swoop’s unbundled fares put travellers in control of purchasing only the products and services they desire.   

    Swoop’s fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft expanded in 2022 to add six Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, for a total of 16 aircraft.  

    At FlySwoop.com travellers can quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, and track flights.  

  • Swoop Celebrates Inaugural Service to Cuba

    Swoop Celebrates Inaugural Service to Cuba

    The ultra-not-expensive airline heats up 2023 with new non-stop flights between Toronto and Varadero

    TORONTO, Jan. 11, 2023 /CNW/ – Today, Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost airline, celebrated its inaugural service between Toronto’s Lester B. Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Juan Gualberto Gomez International Airport in Varadero, Cuba (VRA). Swoop flight WO652 took off from Toronto this morning at 9:10 a.m. ET and arrived in sunny Varadero at 12:50 p.m. local time.

    “As Canada’s favourite sun and fun ultra-low-cost carrier, we are thrilled to celebrate our launch into Cuba,” said Bob Cummings, President of Swoop. “Varadero is widely known as a Canadian favourite for affordable beach vacations, and so we’re proud to provide Torontonians a new ultra-convenient, ultra-not-expensive option for travel to Playa Azul.”

    Ontarians looking for a pre-packaged vacation to an all-inclusive beach resort can access WestJet Vacations Packages with Swoop flights through their favourite Travel Agent, online with a travel website, be available shortly on WestJetvacations.com. 

    “We are thrilled to have Swoop flying to Cuba, it means additional air lift to our country and a growth opportunity to the destination. There is a large part of the market that like to explore Cuba on their own and now they can take advantage of these affordable prices and satisfy their travel needs” – Lessner Gomez, Director of Cuba Tourist Board in Toronto

    “With over two months of winter still remaining, travellers now have more choice for sun destinations served out of Toronto Pearson,” said Janik Reigate, Director of Strategic Customer Relationships, Greater Toronto Airports Authority. “We’re proud to partner with Swoop to help our valued passengers break up the cold and snow with a bit of sun and fun this winter season.”

    In addition to today’s Varadero inaugural flight, Swoop also began new, non-stop service between Hamilton and Punta Cana. The ultra-not-expensive airline will operate over 100 flights per week to 13 vacation destinations across the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean this winter season. With one-way all-in prices starting at $99† CAD for flights and WestJet Vacations packages starting at $356† CAD, there’s never been a better time to escape winter.

    RouteLowest 7-
    day WestJet
    Vacation
    Package
    Price (CAD) †    		Lowest one-
    way total price (CAD)†    		Base Fare (CAD)Taxes &
    Fees (CAD)    		Operating Days
    Toronto to
    Varadero    		$842$159$46.99$113.01Mondays, Wednesdays,
    and Fridays
    Toronto to
    Cancun    		$1,470$159$50.02$108.98All
    Toronto to Las
    Vegas    		$356 (3
    nights)    		$105$3.52$101.48Mondays, Wednesdays,
    Thursdays, Fridays and
    Saturdays
    Hamilton to Punta
    Cana    		$1,309$199$90.68$112.27Wednesdays and
    Saturdays
    Hamilton to
    Cancun    		$1,439$139$41.32$97.68Tuesdays, Wednesdays,
    Saturdays
    Hamilton to Las
    Vegas    		$401 (4
    nights)    		$99$8.57$90.43Thursdays and Sundays
    Hamilton to
    Montego Bay    		$1,173$159$47.33$111.67Wednesdays and
    Saturdays
    †Package prices are per person, based on double occupancy and may differ based on departure dates. For travel between February 1, 2023 – February 28, 2023. | Fares are valid until Wednesday, January 12, 2023 (11:59 p.m. MT) or while seats last. | Prices displayed above are subject to change and are not guaranteed until payment is made and accepted. 

    About Swoop

    Swoop is on a mission to make travel more affordable and accessible for all Canadians. Established in 2018 as an independent subsidiary of the WestJet Group of Companies, Swoop is Canada’s ultra-not-expensive airline. Offering scheduled service to destinations in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, Swoop’s unbundled fares put travellers in control of purchasing only the products and services they desire.   

    Swoop’s fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft and expanded in 2022 to add six Boeing MAX-8 aircraft, for a total of 16 aircraft.  

    At FlySwoop.com travellers can quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, and track flights.