Category: Swoop

Swoop Celebrates Start of Service to Ottawa

Canada’s leading ultra-low fare airline now serving Ottawa from Edmonton, with non-stop service to Halifax and Winnipeg starting in June

OTTAWA, ON, April 25, 2022 /CNW/ – Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost airline, celebrated its first inaugural flight between Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and Ottawa International Airport (YOW). Swoop flight WO 510 took off from Edmonton this morning at 10:50 a.m. MT and arrived at 4:30pm local time in Ottawa.

Swoop crew members Maricris Manalo , Captain Corey Howatt, Jeri Blair, First Officer Darius Duplessis, and Marilyn Beasley celebrate the inaugural service at Edmonton International Airport. (CNW Group/Swoop Inc.)

“Today’s inaugural service to Ottawa marks the first of many new routes for Swoop this summer, and we’re thrilled to be celebrating this non-stop connection between Edmonton, our Western Canada base, and Ottawa, our Nation’s Capital” said Bert van der Stege, Head of Commercial and Finance, Swoop. “We’re proud to be connecting more Canadian travellers to key destinations across the country with our ultra-affordable and convenient air travel options.”

The inaugural service signals not only a continued commitment to service in Edmonton, but also brings new, ultra-affordable air travel options to residents of Ottawa. Later this summer, Swoop will add more ultra-low fare non-stop service from Ottawa to Halifax, Nova Scotia and Winnipeg, Manitoba.

“At a time when the demand for air travel is reaching unprecedented heights, we know these new routes will play an important role in helping Canadians reconnect with friends and family this summer and assist in the recovery of the tourism economy” continued van der Stege.

Today, at FlySwoop.com, travellers can find one-way flights starting from $59 all-in.

Route	Start Date	Peak Weekly Frequency	One-way total price (CAD)	Base Fare (CAD)	Taxes & Fees (CAD)
Ottawa to Edmonton	April 25, 2022	5x weekly	$59	$6.14	$52.86
Ottawa to Halifax	June 19, 2022	Daily	$59	$6.14	$52.86
Ottawa to Winnipeg	June 19, 2022	4x weekly	$59	$6.14	$52.86

For travel between May 1 and June 15, 2022 (Edmonton) and July 1 to August 31, 2022 (Halifax and Winnipeg) | Seasonal start and end dates apply and are indicated in the booking flow. | Fares are valid until May 5, 2022 (11:59 p.m. MT) or while seats last.

”As Mayor of Ottawa, I’m pleased by this new air service offering from Swoop, which will see a number of direct flights added from the nation’s capital to key destinations across Canada. Swoop’s services will increase options and affordability for leisure and business travellers, as the demand for new flights continues to grow at YOW.” – Jim Watson, Mayor of Ottawa

To learn more about Swoop and for flight schedules and bookings, please visit FlySwoop.com. For information on how Swoop is ensuring a safe and healthy travel experience visit FlySwoop.com/traveller-safety.

Additional Quotes

“Ottawa Tourism welcomes Swoop’s direct service from Edmonton, as travel gains momentum and Canadians from coast to coast to coast seek to visit inspiring destinations like Ottawa,” says Michael Crockatt, President, and CEO of Ottawa Tourism. “As Canada’s capital, Ottawa tells the stories of Canada, and we look forward to welcoming travellers from Western Canada and beyond.”

“Congratulations to Swoop Airlines for providing fliers with an affordable new option for travelling across our country and to our nation’s capital,” said Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. “As we return to travel and sightseeing, I encourage everyone to make Ontario a part of their travel plans – where they can experience and enjoy the many incredible ways Ontario offers the world in one province.”

“We are delighted to welcome Swoop to Canada’s Capital,” said Joel Tkach, Vice President, Business Development and Marketing for the Ottawa International Airport Authority. “YOW’s passengers are looking for the flexibility and choice Swoop offers, and our tourism partners are ready to showcase the exceptional experience Ottawa-Gatineau offers now that domestic travel recovery in Canada is in full swing.”

“Non-stop service to our national capital is a priority and I want to thank Swoop for providing more options for passengers. Service to Ottawa is important for our business community but as summer approaches we look forward to tourism opportunities going in both directions and welcoming visitors to our region and Jasper.” – Myron Keehn, Vice-President, Air Service and Business Development, Edmonton International Airport

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 modern fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft will grow to 16 with the addition of six Boeing MAX-8 in 2022. At FlySwoop.com travellers can quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, track flights and access Wi-Fi service in-flight.

25 April 2022

Bob Cummings to return to the WestJet Group as President of Swoop

Cummings homecoming demonstrates confidence in Canadian ultra-low-cost travel market

CALGARY, AB, April 13, 2022 /CNW/ – The WestJet Group today announced the return of Bob Cummings to the airline’s Executive Leadership Team as President of Swoop, WestJet’s ultra-low-cost carrier. Cummings will begin his role on Monday, April 18, 2022.

Bob Cummings with Swoop Aircraft #Bob (CNW Group/WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership)

“I am delighted to welcome Bob back to the WestJet Group to lead Swoop through this pivotal time for affordable air travel in Canada,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer, the WestJet Group. “Bob’s passion and knowledge of the ULCC market, his strength in leading high-performing teams and his impressive track record with the WestJet Group, will ensure that Swoop continues to lead the way in providing Canadians with access to ultra-low fare travel.”

“Swoop was created to make travel affordable and accessible for the most price-conscious travellers, and as we continue to expand and offer more schedule options, people can book with confidence when choosing our Canadian, ultra-low-cost airline,” said Bob Cummings, President of Swoop. “I am elated to return to The WestJet Group’s leadership team and am looking forward to working alongside Swoopsters to bring more choice, lower fares and certainty to the market.”

Most recently, Cummings spent two years at the helm of Central Mountain Air as Chief Executive Officer. In this role, he led through pandemic turbulence and positioned the regional airline for success in recovery, while building the airline’s culture. Prior to Central Mountain Air, Bob spent 13 years with the WestJet Group, spanning several notable Executive Vice-President positions, including President of Swoop in 2018, where he was responsible for the start-up and launch of Canada’s first successful ultra-low-cost airline.

During his tenure with WestJet, Bob led the growth of WestJet Vacations, WestJet Rewards, and was integral in the launch of WestJet Encore, WestJet’s regional airline. As WestJet’s Chief Commercial Officer, Bob grew the airline’s revenue from just over one billion to more than $4.5 billion. Prior to joining WestJet, Bob spent more than 13 years in leadership positions in the utility and telecom markets.

With his extensive North American commercial aviation experience, Bob will continue to build on Swoop’s strong foundation in recovery.

“I would like to thank Charles Duncan for his leadership of Swoop over the past two years,” continued von Hoensbroech. “Charles has played a key role in Swoop’s expansion and recovery and will now transition into a new role supporting various strategic projects and initiatives as Executive Vice-President, Integration and Strategic Projects.”

About the WestJet Group of Companies

In 26 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 100 destinations in 23 countries, pre-pandemic.

Since the start of the pandemic the WestJet Group of Companies has built a layered framework of safety measures to ensure Canadians can continue to travel safely and responsibly through the airline’s Safety Above All hygiene program. During this time, WestJet has maintained its status as one of the top-10 on-time airlines in North America as named by Cirium.

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

Recent recognition includes:

– 2020/2019 Number-One Ranked Canadian Airline Loyalty Program in Member Engagement (Bond Brand Loyalty)
– 2019/2018/2017 Best Airline in Canada (TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards for Airlines)
– 2019 Winner Among Mid-Sized Airlines in North America (TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards for Airlines)
– 2019/2018 Number-One-Ranked Airline Credit Card in Canada (Rewards Canada)

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 modern fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, will grow to 16 with the addition of six Boeing MAX-8 in 2022. At FlySwoop.com travellers can quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, track flights and access Wi-Fi service in-flight.

13 April 2022
FLYHT and Swoop Partner to Reduce Emissions

Receives Support from Alberta Innovates for Environmental Leading Initiative

Calgary, Alberta – March 16, 2022 – FLYHT Aerospace Solutions Ltd. (TSX-V: FLY) (OTCQX: FLYLF) (the “Company” or “FLYHT”) announced that FLYHT is partnering with Swoop Airlines to reduce emissions by eliminating non-essential Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) usage. The program is partially funded through a grant of $150,000 from the Alberta Innovates Product Demonstration Program (“PDP”).

The FLYHT real-time APU monitoring and notification program allows an airline to reduce its APU run times by providing timely, targeted and actionable notifications, thereby reducing CO2 emissions and providing cost savings for the airline. This initiative is aligned with FLYHT’s goal of providing environmentally beneficial solutions that enhance the profit potential for an airline and that create a greener, safer world. The APU consumes approximately 250 lbs of fuel per hour under normal operation.

This APU solution leverages the power of FLYHT’s AFIRS™ family, including the latest platform, AFIRS Edge, of on-wing monitoring and ground infrastructure. The AFIRS family allows for real time monitoring of aircraft data and can be powered by the aircraft’s engines, an external ground power source, or the aircraft APU. The AFIRS Edge has been developed with repayable funding support from Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) through its Western Innovation Initiative.

Bill Tempany, CEO remarked, “FLYHT is always looking for ways to support our customers in their ongoing initiatives to reduce their environmental impact, and we are very happy to have the support of Alberta Innovates to do so. Our relationship with Swoop gives a real Alberta flavor to a global initiative. The results of this work can be rolled out around the world to our more than 80 airline customers.”

Charles Duncan, President of Swoop commented, “The FLYHT APU solution aligns with our commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by operating our fleet and ground infrastructure as efficiently and safely as possible. We are proud to be working with FLYHT to move the industry forward in the effort to reduce emissions.”

About FLYHT Aerospace Solutions Ltd.

FLYHT provides airlines with Actionable Intelligence to transform operational insight into immediate, quantifiable action, delivering industry leading solutions to improve aviation safety, efficiency, and profitability. This unique capability is driven by FLYHT’s patented aircraft certified hardware products including AFIRS™, a satcom aircraft interface device which enables real-time streaming of flight information, cockpit voice and black box data streaming, AFIRS Edge a state of the art WQAR and satellite data communications device, and TAMDAR™ and the FLYHT-WVSS-II™, which deliver airborne weather and humidity data in real-time. FLYHT is headquartered in Calgary, Canada with an office in Littleton, Colorado, and is an AS9100 Quality registered company. For more information view our latest presentation here, or visit www.flyht.com.

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 modern fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, will grow to 16 with the addition of six Boeing MAX-8 in 2022. At FlySwoop.com travellers can quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, track flights and access Wi-Fi service in-flight.   
  
About Alberta Innovates’ PDP Program

The Product Demonstration Program is designed to de-risk the commercialization process by providing funds and coaching to high potential, high growth technology Alberta small to medium-sized enterprises to commercialize their products and achieve an optimal market position to increase revenue and potentially expand into global markets.

16 March 2022

Swoop Announces Significant U.S. Expansion with Five New Destinations

Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost carrier adds service to New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Nashville

CALGARY, AB, Feb. 15, 2022 /CNW/ – Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low fare airline, today announced it will expand its presence in the United States (U.S.) by adding non-stop flights to five new destinations this summer: New York, Chicago, Nashville, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

In addition to serving five new destinations, the fast-growing Canadian airline will also extend its current seasonal services to San Diego, Palm Springs, Las Vegas, St. Pete-Clearwater, Orlando (Sanford) and Phoenix (Mesa) into the summer season. In total Swoop will serve 11 U.S. destinations with ultra-not-expensive flights from its three main Canadian bases in Toronto, Hamilton, and Edmonton.

“As part of our planned growth in 2022, we’re excited to be adding five new popular U.S. destinations to our network,” said Bert van der Stege, Head of Commercial & Finance at Swoop. “As Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost carrier, we are growing our fleet, expanding our network, and adding service to existing destinations to ensure we are ready to meet Canadian’s pent-up demand for travel experiences south of the border.”

In addition to the new U.S. destinations announced today, Swoop previously announced it will begin service to 10 new Canadian destinations bringing the airline’s total number of destinations served to 33 this summer.

Demand for transborder travel amid restrictive testing requirements

Swoop’s announced U.S. expansion comes as the ULCC reports significantly increased domestic passenger numbers and record bookings, on par with pre-pandemic demand. The airline expects to see that pent-up demand trend extend to U.S. leisure travel this summer as more than 30.5 million fully vaccinated Canadians look to resume their transborder travel habits.

As countries across the globe take measures to safely re-open borders for vaccinated travellers and make sensible adjustments to overall travel guidance and testing requirements, the ULCC expects to see Canadian requirements updated by March 1, when current government measures are set to expire.

“Outdated travel restrictions that were meant to be temporary, continue to severely impact the recovery of the travel and tourism sectors,” said van der Stege during the Routes Americas Conference in San Antonio where the announcement was made. “Our airline is fully vaccinated, our travellers are fully vaccinated, and yet duplicative testing requirements continue to make travel unnecessarily expensive and inaccessible.”

The ULCC continues to call on government to outline a re-opening timeline and roadmap for travel recovery that is based on science and reflective of the current realities of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Full Details of Swoop’s U.S. Network Expansion

Route	Peak Frequency	Start Date	Total fare one-way (CAD)^†	Base Fare (CAD)	Taxes and Fees (CAD)
Toronto (YYZ) – Chicago (ORD)	5x weekly	May 30	$99.00	$4.92	$94.08
Toronto (YYZ) – New York (JFK)	5x weekly	June 20	$99.00	$4.92	$94.08
Toronto (YYZ) – Nashville (BNA)	4x weekly	May 26	$99.00	$4.92	$94.08
Toronto (YYZ) – Las Vegas (LAS)	3x weekly	May 20	$99.00	$4.92	$94.08
Toronto (YYZ) – Orlando / Sanford (SFB)	2x weekly	Ongoing	$99.00	$4.92	$94.08
Toronto (YYZ) – St. Pete-Clearwater (PIE)	2x weekly	Ongoing	$99.00	$4.92	$94.08
Hamilton (YHM) – Las Vegas (LAS)	2x weekly	June 23	$99.00	$10.30	$88.70
Hamilton (YHM) – Orlando / Sanford (SFB)	2x weekly	Ongoing	$99.00	$10.30	$88.70
Hamilton (YHM) – St. Pete-Clearwater (PIE)	2x weekly	Ongoing	$99.00	$10.30	$88.70
Edmonton (YEG) – San Francisco (SFO)	4x weekly	June 6	$99.00	$2.21	$96.79
Edmonton (YEG) – Los Angeles (BUR)	3x weekly	June 23	$99.00	$2.21	$96.79
Edmonton (YEG) – Nashville (BNA)	2x weekly	June 19	$99.00	$2.21	$96.79
Edmonton (YEG) – Las Vegas (LAS)	Daily	Ongoing	$99.00	$2.21	$96.79
Edmonton (YEG) – San Diego (SAN)	3x weekly	Ongoing	$99.00	$2.21	$96.79
Edmonton (YEG) – Palm Springs (PSP)	1x weekly	Ongoing	$99.00	$2.21	$96.79
Edmonton (YEG) – Phoenix Mesa (AZA)	1x weekly	Ongoing	$99.00	$2.21	$96.79

†Special introductory fares are limited quantity. Book by February 18, 2022, for travel between June 1 and July 27, 2022. Blackout Period: June 28 – July 4, 2022.

Additional Quotes

“John F. Kennedy International Airport is delighted to see five new, non-stop flights to Toronto beginning later this year. This new route will provide customers with more affordable flight options when traveling to the NYC region.”
– Charles Everett, General Manager, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
“On behalf of Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, Chicago is honored to welcome Swoop to offer additional, affordable travel options between O’Hare International Airport and Toronto Pearson International Airport. Canadians are invited to the ‘Windy City’ for the diverse tourist attractions and eclectic cuisine across our 77 community areas.”
– Chicago Commissioner of Aviation, Jamie L. Rhee.
“It’s always a great day when we add new nonstop international flights to Nashville, and it’s even better when we can welcome a new airline to the BNA family. Swoop’s service to both Toronto and Edmonton make it easier for Canadian friends to make their way down to Music City, and for southern hospitality to make its way up north.”
– Doug Kreulen, President and CEO, Nashville International Airport
“SFO is pleased to welcome Swoop Airlines to offer non-stop service between Edmonton and San Francisco, starting this Summer. This new Canadian service helps to define SFO as a world-class gateway airport, strengthening our ties with our neighbor to the North, and we hope this new service will be a great success.”
– Ivar C. Satero, Airport Director, San Francisco Airport (SFO)
“Swoop customers will soon get to experience the most convenient way to visit the Los Angeles metro area. Swoop is also offering our local passengers a convenient opportunity to visit and explore the natural beauty, culture, and attractions of Edmonton and Canada.”
– Frank Miller, Executive Director, Hollywood Burbank Airport

To learn more about Swoop please visit FlySwoop.com and for information on how Swoop is ensuring a safe and healthy travel experience visit FlySwoop.com/traveller-safety.

About Swoop

Swoop’s modern fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, will grow to 16 with the addition of six Boeing MAX-8 in 2022. At FlySwoop.com travellers can quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, track flights and access Wi-Fi service in-flight.

15 February 2022

Commercial airliner diverted during high-speed chase in the Fraser Valley

From The Vancouver Sun 🔗 link to source story

The chopper followed the SUV and worked with air traffic controllers at Abbotsford’s airport to redirect an incoming Swoop Airlines flight that was in the helicopter’s flight path.

The Canadian Press • February 10, 2022

Photo by City of Abbotsford /PNG

Police say a man has been charged following a high-speed chase that ended with a collision with a police vehicle in Langley.

Abbotsford police said in a news release that an RCMP helicopter was following a sport utility vehicle with mismatched licence plates Tuesday that was later confirmed to be stolen.

They say the Mounties alerted them to the chase and Abbotsford police officers attempted a traffic stop on the ground, at which point the driver sped away.

Police say the helicopter followed the SUV and worked with air traffic controllers at Abbotsford’s airport to get a course change for an incoming Swoop Airlines flight that was in the helicopter’s flight path.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=BA3UoeGRCDo%3Fembed_config%3D%7B%2527relatedChannels%2527%3A%2520%5B%5D%2C%2527autonav%2527%3Atrue%7D%26autoplay%3D0%26playsinline%3D1%26enablejsapi%3D1

Police allege the SUV was observed driving into oncoming traffic labes to pass vehicles, using the shoulder of the road, going through red lights and stop signs, and driving at high speeds that put other motorists at risk.

An hour after the chase began, they say the SUV collided with a police vehicle in Langley, but Abbotsford police say neither the driver nor the officer were injured.

They say the driver drove a few more blocks, then fled on foot and was taken into custody with help from police dogs.

A 39-year-old Surrey man has been charged with flight from police, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, possession of stolen property over $5,000, breach of probation and prohibited driving.

10 February 2022

Swoop Announces Significant Fleet Growth and Domestic Network Expansion

Canada’s leading ultra-low fare airline to add six new Boeing MAX-8 aircraft
Airline to introduce non-stop service to Newfoundland this spring – enabling Canadians to reconnect coast-to-coast
Domestic network expansion adds 14 new non-stop routes including service to Deer Lake and St. John’s, Newfoundland; and Saint John, New Brunswick

CALGARY, AB, Feb. 9, 2022 /CNW/ – Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low fare airline, today announced it will grow its fleet from 10 to 16 aircraft with the acquisition of six new Boeing MAX-8 aircraft. Canada’s fast growing ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) confirmed it will begin receiving all six aircraft this summer as the airline rapidly expands to meet peak season travel demand.

Alongside this fleet growth, Swoop will significantly expand its domestic network, adding non-stop flights to Newfoundland and increasing service in Atlantic Canada. The ULCC will also add six new routes and capacity in Ontario and the Prairies in preparation for Canada’s busy summer travel season. The airline’s announced expansion comes as Swoop reports significantly increased passenger numbers and record bookings domestically.

“We saw demand for travel return in a very meaningful way over the holidays, signalling that Canadians are ready to reunite with family and friends,” said Bert van der Stege, Head of Commercial & Finance, Swoop. “The acquisition of six new aircraft in response to anticipated demand will ensure Swoop reconnects more Canadians this summer while accelerating Canada’s economic recovery.”

Today’s announced expansion will bring the ULCC’s total non-stop domestic routes served to 37 this summer and includes a significant investment in Atlantic Canada.

Significant Expansion and Investment in Atlantic Canada

Swoop’s investments in Atlantic Canada will see the airline begin service at three new destinations while increasing capacity across the region by 273 per cent compared to pre-pandemic levels.

“Swoop is pleased to support Newfoundland and Labrador’s Come Home 2022 campaign and stimulate recovery of the visitor economy with access to affordable air travel,” said van der Stege. “We know how important the re-opening of travel and tourism is for regional economic recovery and continue to call on the federal government to outline a roadmap for the recovery of air travel that is based on science and reflective of the current realities of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Newfoundland and Labrador

Deer Lake – Hamilton, 2x weekly (May 21)
St. John’s – Hamilton, 5x weekly (June 13)
Deer Lake – Toronto, 2x weekly (June 20)

New Brunswick

Moncton – Hamilton – 4x weekly (May 9)
Saint John – Toronto – 4x weekly (May 12)
Moncton – Edmonton – 2x weekly (May 9)

Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown – Hamilton – 4x weekly (May 1)
Charlottetown – Toronto – 3x weekly (May 2)
Charlottetown – Edmonton – 2x weekly (May 1)

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax – Edmonton – 5x weekly (May 1)
Halifax – Ottawa – Daily (June 19)

Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan to benefit from increased domestic capacity

Today’s network expansion announcement also includes new routes and increased frequencies in previously announced new stations: Ottawa, Saskatoon and Regina.

Ontario

Ottawa – Winnipeg – 4x weekly (June 19)
Winnipeg – Toronto – Daily (June 20)

Saskatchewan

Saskatoon – Winnipeg – 2x weekly (June 14)
Saskatoon – Toronto – 2x weekly (June 22)
Regina – Winnipeg – 2x weekly (June 16)
Regina – Toronto – 2x weekly (June 22)

Demand for affordable travel equates to record new bookings and job opportunities across Canada

Throughout the pandemic the ULCC model has proven especially resilient, with Swoop carrying around one million travellers in 2021. Despite ongoing travel restrictions Swoop saw strong demand for both domestic and international travel over the peak holiday period, a trend that has continued into the new year. The airline further demonstrated operational resilience, ranking amongst the most reliable airlines in Canada/North America, with a flight completion rate of 99.4 per cent and on-time arrival of 78 per cent in 2021.

In preparation of the airline’s fleet growth and network expansion, Swoop is ramping up staffing across Canada, creating jobs to support economic recovery and stimulating hospitality and tourism sectors from coast-to-coast.

Full Details of Swoop’s New Domestic Routes

Route	Peak Weekly Frequency	Start Date	Total one- way fare (CAD) ^†	Base Fare (CAD)	Taxes and Fees (CAD)
Hamilton to Charlottetown	4x weekly	May 1, 2022	$49.00	$1.29	$47.71
Edmonton to Halifax	5x weekly	May 1, 2022	$179.00	$118.40	$60.60
Toronto to Charlottetown	3x weekly	May 2, 2022	$59.00	$5.14	$53.86
Hamilton to Moncton	4x weekly	May 9, 2022	$79.00	$27.84	$51.16
Toronto to Saint John	4x weekly	May 12, 2022	$59.00	$5.14	$53.86
Hamilton to Deer Lake	2x weekly	May 21, 2022	$59.00	$9.23	$49.77
Hamilton to St. John’s	5x weekly	June 13, 2022	$99.00	$45.54	$53.46
Winnipeg to Saskatoon	2x weekly	June 14, 2022	$59.00	$3.12	$55.88
Winnipeg to Regina	2x weekly	June 16, 2022	$59.00	$3.12	$55.88
Winnipeg to Ottawa	4x weekly	June 19, 2022	$65.00	$6.83	$58.17
Halifax to Ottawa	Daily	June 19, 2022	$60.00	$0.10	$59.90
Edmonton to Charlottetown	2x weekly	June 19, 2022	$179.00	$118.40	$60.60
Toronto to Deer Lake	2x weekly	June 20, 2022	$99.00	$40.54	$58.46
Toronto to Winnipeg	Daily	June 20, 2022	$69.00	$13.99	$55.01
Edmonton to Moncton	2x weekly	June 20, 2022	$179.00	$118.40	$60.60
Toronto to Regina	2x weekly	June 22, 2022	$59.00	$19.12	$39.88
Toronto to Saskatoon	2x weekly	June 22, 2022	$69.00	$25.64	$43.36

†Special introductory fares are limited quantity. Book by February 23, 2022 for travel between June 1 and July 15, 2022.

Additional Quotes

“Welcome Swoop to Newfoundland and Labrador! This is good news for the province as travel restrictions begin to ease and we prepare to host friends, family, and guests for Come Home Year in 2022. While offering travellers another airline option for leisure travel, this will also help spur economic recovery and the building of important business connections.”

– The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador

“We’re delighted to welcome Swoop Airlines to the Saint John Airport. We are committed to exceeding passenger expectations and travellers will love Swoop’s ultra-low fares and direct service from Saint John to Toronto.”

– Alexander (Sandy) Ross, Saint John Airport (YSJ) President and CEO

“The Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport is very excited to welcome ultra-low fare airline Swoop to our airport and to New Brunswick! This is great news for our region and the traveling public, with a May 6^th launch date and non-stop flights to both Hamilton and Edmonton from YQM in 2022, We are proud to be one of the 28 airports where Swoop operates and look forward to further growing their presence and activity at YQM. Fly Swoop!”

– Bernard F. LeBlanc, President & CEO GMIAA – Managing Director YQM

“We are excited to welcome Swoop to Deer Lake as a new airline with new destinations for travellers leaving our region. It will also allow access to a new market for people in Western and South Western Ontario and for the first time Alberta. As we are recovering it will make it easy for families and friends to reconnect more often. It will also increase access for tourists to take in the many great experiences we offer in Western Newfoundland & Labrador.”

– Tammy Priddle, President and CEO, Deer Lake Airport

“We are pleased to welcome Swoop as our newest airline partner. This link to Hamilton will enhance access to Ontario and provide travellers with a new and exciting option that we haven’t had before.”

– Peter Avery, Chief Executive Officer, St. John’s International Airport Authority

“We are excited to see Swoop’s announcement of two new destinations for Prince Edward Island. This new service from Toronto and Hamilton, along with Swoop’s new flights from Edmonton this summer, is welcome news for our Island’s tourism industry and for Islanders looking for additional low fare travel options.”

– Doug Newson, YYG Charlottetown Airport CEO

To learn more about Swoop please visit FlySwoop.com and for information on how Swoop is ensuring a safe and healthy travel experience visit FlySwoop.com/traveller-safety.

About Swoop

9 February 2022

Swoop Heats up the New Year with Service to Los Cabos

Canada’s leading ultra-low fare airline, brings new sunny destination to Abbotsford with launch of inaugural route

ABBOTSFORD, BC, Jan. 31, 2022 /CNW/ – Today, Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low cost airline, celebrated its first flight between Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) and Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). The ultra-low-cost airline’s inaugural service took off from Abbotsford at 9:00 a.m. PST and is scheduled to arrive at 2:55pm local time.

“As the country’s leading ultra-low fare airline, we’re pleased to add another warm-weather getaway option for residents of the Fraser Valley, with Los Cabos topping our growing list of non-stop destinations available from Abbotsford,” said Shane Workman, Head of Flight Operations, Swoop. “Abbotsford International Airport has been an integral partner back, going back to June 20^th, 2018, when we operated our first Swoop flight. We’re thankful for their continued commitment to supporting the ultra-low cost model at YXX, bringing more affordable air travel and vacation options to Canadians.”

Today’s inaugural service marks the first of many to come in 2022, as the airline furthers its commitment and strategic focus on providing more choice and ultra-low fares to the Fraser Valley and Vancouver’s Lower Mainland. Swoop’s introductory fares from Abbotsford to Los Cabos start at just $79 CAD†, and Canadians can unlock additional hotel discounts when they add a hotel or all-inclusive resort to their booking through Swoop Getaways. Beginning March 12, Swoop will also add Mazatlán to its non-stop sun flying schedule from Abbotsford, the third destination in Mexico following Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos.

In celebration of the new service, Swoop’s Head of Flight Operations, Shane Workman was joined by Parm Sidhu, YXX Airport General Manager for an inaugural ceremony prior to departure from Abbotsford International Airport, where travellers were treated to refreshments and giveaways.

“We look forward to expanding our connectivity with Swoop to bring travellers from Abbotsford in a direct flight to Los Cabos,” said Rodrigo Esponda, Managing Director of the Los Cabos Tourism Board. “As Canadian tourism to the destination continues a steady recovery, we continue to implement strong health and safety protocols as travellers look to experience all that our destination has to offer from world-class gastronomy to luxury resorts.”

To learn more about Swoop and for flights from Abbotsford, please visit FlySwoop.com and for information on how Swoop is ensuring a safe and healthy travel experience visit FlySwoop.com/traveller-safety.

†70 total seats available for travel between February 14 – April 25, 2022. Sale ends February 6 (11:59pm MT).

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 modern fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, equipped with in-seat power and Wi-Fi connectivity has safely carried more than 3 million travellers in three years of operation. FlySwoop.com allows travellers to quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, track flights and access Wi-Fi service in-flight.

31 January 2022
Lynx Air CEO sees room for all amid cutthroat market crowded with carriers

From CTV News 🔗link to source story

Christopher Reynolds, The Canadian Press & Staff | January 30, 2022

From Lynx Air

Australian Merren McArthur first touched down in Canada in the mid-1980s for a ski holiday that turned into a two-month stay in the Rockies.

“I landed in Calgary and the pilot said it was -40 C. And I was like, `Whoa, I didn’t know that humans could survive in that temperature,”’ McArthur recalls.

“I walked into the Banff Springs Hotel and asked them if they had any jobs. I became their first female doorman.”

She loved the skiing. “But I remember being introduced to Caesar cocktails, and I really liked them.”

Now McArthur’s back as CEO of Lynx Air, enticed by the mountainous task of getting an upstart budget carrier off the ground amid intense low-cost competition and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Several ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCCs) have been beefing up since the summer in preparation for a clash with Air Canada and WestJet Airlines Ltd. – and with each other – particularly for domestic flights and sun destinations.

Flair Airlines was down to one aircraft in April. It now has a dozen 737s, with eight more coming by the end of June as the Edmonton-based airline adds routes from Victoria to St. John’s, N.L.

Meanwhile, WestJet budget subsidiary Swoop continues to expand, unveiling nine new routes out of Edmonton in November.

“It is going to be a price war,” said aviation expert and McGill University lecturer John Gradek.

“It’s a harbinger of what’s going to happen this summer with the continuous battle between Flair and Lynx to basically get the price advantage in the marketplace. And Air Canada and WestJet are going to get caught in the crossfire,” Gradek said.

McArthur says “it will be competitive,” but that she sees pent-up demand in Canada, where ULCCs claim only about 12 per cent of the market compared with more than 40 per cent in Europe.

“We’re not really about targeting or taking share away from our competitors, we’re actually about enticing more people to fly and growing the market,” she says.

Lynx, formerly known as Enerjet, plans to make its first flight from Calgary to Vancouver on April 7. By May it aims to operate 76 flights per week along seven routes servicing Vancouver, Kelowna, B.C., Calgary, Winnipeg and Toronto. The company expects more routes will be added this summer.

For the moment, flight cancellations define the sector. In the last three weeks alone Air Canada, WestJet, Transat, Sunwing, Flair and Swoop have scrapped more than 5,300 flights in February alone, or 14.5 per cent of their collective trips, according to figures from airline data company Cirium.

Even if travel restrictions ease and demand rebounds, other hurdles remain.

A shortage of staff, particularly pilots, continues to hamper the industry, though Lynx hopes to hire 450 employees this year, the majority in Calgary. North America will face a shortage of 12,000 pilots by 2023, according to projections from consulting firm Oliver Wyman.

Shifting travel patterns have also seen more Canadians make leisure travel decisions at the last minute, while others opt for road trips instead of air.

“People are finding it difficult to plan months in advance with changing COVID restrictions and developments,” said David Huttner, a London-based expert in low-cost-carriers, which offer bare-bones discount fares and charge extra for services such as checked bags and cancellations.

“The travel habits change, especially on shorter routes. Someone going Montreal-Ottawa now might be more likely to drive in their own car.”

But while the pandemic saw billions of dollars in revenue go up in smoke over the past 20 months, it also burned down barriers to entry for new airlines.

Plummeting demand for aircraft meant carriers could access them more quickly and cheaply. And greater availability of airport slots has given companies leverage when striking deals with airport authorities.

McArthur – like Flair CEO Stephen Jones and WestJet chief operating officer Diederik Pen – cut her teeth in the Australia-New Zealand aviation market, an ideal training ground for Canadian airline executives.

Both Australia and Canada are massive countries with diffuse populations dependent on air travel to span the great distances between cities. Both have a long-standing flag carrier – Qantas and Air Canada respectively – that dominates the market. Both have hosted few independent low-cost carriers, with Canada a noted graveyard for budget airlines – six foundered here between 1995 and 2015: Greyhound Air, Roots Air, Air Canada’s Zip, Jetsgo, Zoom Airlines and Canjet.

McArthur is the second woman to head a national commercial airline in Canada, following Annick Guerard – who became the No. 1 at Transat A.T. last May, less than two weeks before McArthur began her tenure.

She worked as a lawyer for two decades, eventually landing as general counsel to low-cost airline Virgin Blue – soon to become Virgin Australia – in 2008.

She started as CEO of Virgin Australia Regional Airlines in 2013, returning it to profit within three years by focusing on charter flights for mining and resource companies, and continued to juggle that job after becoming chief executive of Virgin Australia Cargo.

Before taking a career break just before the pandemic struck, McArthur shifted to CEO of Virgin Australia’s low-cost Tigerair Australia in 2018, where she assembled a management team that achieved gender parity.

“I perhaps have a natural tendency to embrace diversity, because I do think that creativity and innovation is driven by people being able to bounce different ideas around the table,” she says.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 30, 2022.

30 January 2022
Comox Valley Airport looking for passenger numbers to take off in 2022

From the Comox Valley Record – link to source story🔗 – thanks to CW

A plane on the tarmac at the Comox Valley Airport. Photo by Comox Valley Airport

Pandemic restrictions impacting numbers; ULCs could provide a boost for travellers out of YQQ

ERIN HALUSCHAK, Comox Valley Record | January 18, 2022

The Comox Valley Airport is hoping for smooth skies for the months ahead following an increase in passenger traffic over the holidays but a dropoff during the first month of the new year.

Mike Atkins, the CEO for YQQ said passenger numbers for 2021 were at about 65 per cent of pre-pandemic numbers to close out the year. A twist for the airport came on Dec. 15 when Canadians were advised to avoid non-essential travel outside of Canada due to the risk of the Omicron variant.

“Since the New Year, we’ve seen a drop off in numbers. People who already had travel plans pushed on for Christmas, but into January, it has been quite slow,” noted Atkins.

While many airports across the country delayed or cancelled flights due to significant winter weather or staffing issues, Atkins said flight ran smoothly throughout the holidays season, thanks to the “incredible” assistance from 19 Wing Comox who kept the runways clear through multiple snow events.

“Regardless of (the weather), the airport never shut down. We only lost one flight due to a challenge with a de-icing truck. We did a lot of shoveling and salting on the aprons and there haven’t been any real weather issues.”

With ultra-low-cost carrier Flair Airlines set to begin operations out of Comox on March 29 and WestJet’s ULC Swoop Airlines set to begin on June 9, Atkins explained recent renovations to the south end of the terminal building should be complete by the end of March.

Once completed, the terminal will have a new security area and expanded hold room, something he says is even more crucial as passengers maintain social distancing regulations.

In late 2021, the Comox Valley Airport board of directors asked Comox council for support to appeal to the federal government to reinstate the airport’s international designation, in order to resume direct seasonal WestJet flight from Comox to Puerto Vallarta.

Atkins said the decision has been delayed and added other airports in the province such as Victoria and Kelowna have received their international designation.

“It’s frustrating (for travellers) as they’ve had their flights rebooked through Calgary.”

Overall, he said delays in recovery are taking longer than anticipated but estimates it will take about two years to increase passenger numbers to what they were pre-pandemic. With the Comox Valley as a preferred summer destination domestically, Atkins said he is hopeful by the summer YQQ will be busy again with a tourism boom.

“With the arrival of Flair and Swoop and summer weather, it’s exciting to see what will happen in our market.”

19 January 2022
Swoop Takes Off to Two New U.S. Destinations from Edmonton

Ultra-low fare airline advocates for the preservation of safe and fully-vaccinated international air travel as it takes flight for Palm Springs and Orlando/Sanford

EDMONTON, AB, Dec. 16, 2021 /CNW/ – Swoop this week celebrates the launch of two new inaugural flights from Edmonton International Airport with the start of non-stop service to Palm Springs, California today and to Orlando (Sanford), Florida on December 17. The airline’s twice weekly non-stop service to Palm Springs operates on Mondays and Thursdays, while flights between Edmonton and Orlando (Sanford) will operate weekly on Fridays.

In light of the Level 3 travel advisory being re-issued by the Government of Canada, Swoop, as part of the WestJet Group, is advocating for the preservation of the measures in place for fully-vaccinated international air travel.

“Since the onset of the pandemic, air travel has become the most tested and protected consumer activity in Canada,” said Charles Duncan, President of Swoop. “With travellers being tested an average of twice throughout their international journey and as the only fully-vaccinated air travel sector in the world, we believe that vaccinations and testing are the right path forward for safe international air travel.”

Throughout the pandemic, Swoop has safely flown more than 800,000 travellers, maintaining critical access to affordable air travel for Canadians and prioritizing safety above all with a zero-tolerance mask policy and mandatory vaccinations requirements for both employees and air travellers.

Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) also recently announced a testing partnership with Azova, a digital health technology platform enabling travellers to more easily navigate and adhere to testing requirements with approved at-home testing kits and in-person testing options for travel.

Travellers can find up to date Covid-19 travel information at www.flyswoop.com/coronavirus.

To learn more about Swoop please visit FlySwoop.com.

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 modern fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, equipped with in-seat power and Wi-Fi connectivity has safely carried more than 3 million travellers in three years of operation. FlySwoop.com allows travellers to quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, track flights and access Wi-Fi service in-flight.

16 December 2021

Category: Swoop

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Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost carrier adds service to New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Nashville