TORONTO, Feb. 14, 2024 /CNW/ – Porter Airlines is spreading the love on Valentine’s Day by inaugurating its Ottawa-Calgary route, connecting Eastern and Western Canada with the airline’s unique style, care and charm.
The new daily roundtrip service is designed to facilitate seamless transfers for passengers travelling to Eastern Canada and the United States through Ottawa International Airport (YOW). The flight schedule and respective start dates are as follows:
Route
Departure
Arrival
Flights Begin
Ottawa – Calgary Calgary – Ottawa
6:20 p.m. 8:50 a.m.
8:49 p.m. 2:40 p.m.
February 14, 2024 February 15, 2024
All times are local
The Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, operating on this route, ensures a comfortable journey with its 132-seat, two-by-two configuration. Passengers can enjoy Porter’s famous hospitality, featuring free, fast WiFi, premium snacks, and complimentary beer and wine served in real glassware for everyone onboard.
Extra legroom seats, pre-mixed cocktails, and fresh, healthy meals are also available with the all-inclusive PorterReserve fares, or can be purchased à la carte with PorterClassic fares.
Porter operates 16 nonstop routes from Ottawa. Detailed schedules and Porter Escapes vacation packages can be found on www.flyporter.com.
Quotes “Passengers love the Porter experience and we remain committed to delivering service and amenities that are unmatched in the industry for economy travellers. This new route brings additional travel options to Calgary and reinforces our position in Canada’s capital with Porter’s extensive YOW network.”
Kevin Jackson, president, Porter Airlines
“The commitment Porter shows toward creating memorable experiences for its guests closely aligns with our own, and we are pleased by the positive impact our partnership has had on the success of Porter’s first year of operations at YYC. Our airport is well positioned to continue supporting our airline partners’ operations to meet the strong demand we are seeing for efficient and reliable air travel and increased connectivity.”
Chris Miles, Chief Operating Officer, The Calgary Airport Authority
“We’re thrilled with Porter’s decision to introduce a second destination in Alberta from YOW, offering our passengers even greater flexibility for travel out west. This expansion underscores Porter’s ongoing commitment to enhancing connectivity from Ottawa with their innovative new jet fleet and service. It’s a positive development for both our travellers and the region’s overall connectivity.”
Joel Tkach, vice president, business development and marketing, Ottawa International Airport Authority
About Porter Since 2006, Porter Airlines has been elevating the experience of economy air travel for every passenger, providing genuine hospitality with style, care and charm. Porter’s fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft serves a North American network from Eastern Canada. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®. Visit www.flyporter.com
Calgary, Alberta – The Calgary Airport Authority welcomes its new Chief Financial Officer, Jennifer (Jen) Pon, effective Feb. 12, 2024. With a distinguished career spanning over 20 years in finance leadership, Jen brings a wealth of expertise to The Authority’s executive leadership team as it embarks on a steady trajectory of growth.
Jen, a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Calgary, joins The Calgary Airport Authority from Rogers Communications, where she served as the Vice President of Internal Audit and Risk Management. In her roles at Rogers Communications and Shaw Communications, Jen led the commercial finance operations, audit, and risk management functions, in addition to playing a key leadership role in finance integration through the merger of the companies.
From 2005 to 2016, Jen grew her career with WestJet, successfully progressing in senior finance roles as she led WestJet’s financial planning and analysis, strategic procurement, audit and financial reporting functions. At both WestJet and Rogers Communications, she has also overseen several non-finance departments including business continuity, operations research, business intelligence, and corporate reporting. Her deep understanding of the aviation industry, coupled with her successful track record, make her a valuable addition to The Authority.
“Jen will play a crucial role in steering the financial strategies of our growing airport as we strive for excellence on both national and global scales. Jen’s appointment is a significant step forward in achieving our aspirations and we are excited to welcome her as our newest member of our Crew,” says Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO of The Calgary Airport Authority.
With an extensive background in enterprise-wide change initiatives and change management, finance optimization, and large-scale Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), her experience aligns seamlessly with The Calgary Airport Authority’s trajectory. Her leadership and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success and growth of YYC Calgary International Airport.
A people-centric leader and advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, Jen’s leadership will further enhance The Authority’s commitment to developing its people.
The Authority looks forward to welcoming Jen to the team, confident that her strategic financial leadership will play a pivotal role in its journey.
About The Calgary Airport Authority
The Calgary Airport Authority is a not-for-profit organization incorporated under the Regional Airports Authorities Act of Alberta. The Authority is responsible for the management, operation and development of YYC Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Springbank Airport (YBW). The Authority’s commitment to safety remains a top priority. Our airports are important economic generators for the city, region and province, supporting thousands of jobs and generating billions in GDP through associated economic activity. The Authority was also recognized as one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 2023.
As Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) prepares for growth, it will be increasing its Airport Improvement Fee (AIF) from the current $15.00 per departing passenger to $25.00, for all tickets sold on or after April 1, 2024, for travel from the airport after May 1, 2024.
Last adjusted in 2015, AIF funds have supported significant investments and improvements to passenger and airline related infrastructure in the terminal building and airfield. However, since 2015 over $15 million more has been invested in AIF-eligible capital projects than has been collected with the fee.
“Victoria International Airport is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels of passenger travel in 2025, and revenue generated by other sources will not be enough for VAA to keep up with the ongoing infrastructure and facility improvements needed to ensure a high-quality passenger experience,” said Cathie Ounsted, Victoria Airport Authority Board Chair. “Increasing the AIF will ensure that other revenue sources are available for sustainable and environmentally responsible initiatives that support commerce, tourism and community well-being across Vancouver Island.”
VAA’s Masterplan, which was released in early 2023, provides a long-term strategy for the development of the airport to meet the growth that is predicted for the region and all of Vancouver Island. The plan identified almost $600 million in capital investments that could be required, equating to an average of $30 million a year over the next 20 years.
“The increase in AIF will enable us to prepare for the anticipated growth and fiscally manage the capital investments necessary to meet the future demand and expectations of our passengers and airport service partners,” said Elizabeth M. Brown, Victoria Airport Authority President and CEO. “This increase will allow us to be both strategic and intentional with our investments in infrastructure improvements. It is important that we continue to provide an outstanding passenger experience for travellers and a welcoming airport for the community.”
As Vancouver Island’s largest airport, it is forecasted that the Victoria International Airport will reach over three million total passengers by 2042, representing 50 percent more than its peak period pre-pandemic level. The investments planned will be guided by responsible stewardship that meet future growth with exceptional facilities.
The $10.00 increase only impacts departing passengers and is administrated by the air carriers at the time of ticketing.
About Victoria Airport Authority
Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is the 11th busiest airport in Canada and has been rated one of the top ten most-loved airports in the world by CNN Travel. Winner of the Best Regional Airport in North America award by Airports Council International in 2012, 2014, and 2020, YYJ provides a safe, secure, sustainable, and efficient airport that creates prosperity for our region by connecting Greater Victoria with the world. Victoria Airport Authority has managed the operations at YYJ on behalf of the surrounding communities since April 1, 1997.
London, Ontario – February 9, 2024 – Airshow London is thrilled to announce a sensational addition to its 2024 lineup: an unprecedented team hailing all the way from the United Kingdom. Set to dazzle audiences with their unparalleled skills and aerial maneuvers, this extraordinary team promises to elevate the excitement of Airshow London’s SkyDrive, bringing the event to new heights.
Renowned as one of the world’s most elite aerial display teams, the Red Arrows, officially known as the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, will bring their signature blend of precision, skill, and breathtaking maneuvers to Airshow London’s 2024 SkyDrive for the first time ever. This historic debut marks a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for aviation enthusiasts to witness the iconic red jets and their remarkable performance up close.
The air show itself will offer a rare and exciting line-up of Canadian and United States military aircraft, all coming together to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force. Additional performers include the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, RCAF CF-18 Demonstration Team, and the United States Air Force F-16 Viper Demonstration Team.
“We are incredibly honoured and excited to welcome the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team to Airshow London’s 2024 SkyDrive,” said Gerry Vanderhoek, Director of Air Operations, Airshow London. “Their breathtaking aerial performances will undoubtedly leave audiences in awe. This is an unprecedented opportunity for attendees to witness the pinnacle of aviation excellence, and we can’t wait to share this unforgettable experience with you all.”
The addition of the Red Arrows to Airshow London’s 2024 SkyDrive represents a significant milestone for the event and the Canadian aviation community as a whole. This eagerly anticipated debut promises to be a highlight of the airshow, offering spectators an unforgettable experience and the rare opportunity to witness aviation history in the making.
Tickets to Airshow London’s SkyDrive are available now. Tickets are sold per vehicle in advance only and can be purchased at www.airshowlondon.com.
Calgary, Alberta – An impressive 18.5 million passengers moved through YYC Calgary International Airport in 2023, breaking a previous record of 18 million in 2019. The notable increase of over 500,000 passengers represents a growth rate of 2.8 per cent compared to 2019 numbers.
“2023’s record-breaking results reflect the dedication of our teams and all those in our aviation ecosystem to serve the needs of our guests and our region,” says Chris Dinsdale, President and Chief Executive Officer with The Calgary Airport Authority. “We’re proud of the vital role YYC plays in Alberta’s economy as a connector of people and goods while supporting Alberta’s flourishing business and tourism industries and contributing an estimated $8 billion to regional GDP.”
Record-breaking passenger numbers in 2023 highlight the demand for efficient and reliable air travel options, solidifying YYC’s status as a major aviation hub in North America. Serving strong demand for travel in Canada and globally, YYC offers non-stop connectivity to more than 90 destinations, connecting our guests to the world.
In 2023, YYC welcomed new carriers and saw strong growth from existing airline partners, giving travellers more choices to connect to in-demand destinations, and paving the way for exciting new route announcements such as non-stop flights from Calgary to Seoul, South Korea and Reykjavik, Iceland, which are planned to operate this summer.
The Authority remains dedicated to creating exceptional travel experiences for our guests, investing in infrastructure and fostering strong partnerships with our stakeholders as we prepare to begin construction on the West Runway Rehabilitation project, welcome new Crew to our ranks and introduce exciting commercial and retail concepts to the terminal.
About The Calgary Airport Authority
The Calgary Airport Authority is a not-for-profit organization incorporated under the Regional Airports Authorities Act of Alberta. The Authority is responsible for the management, operation and development of YYC Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Springbank Airport (YBW). The Authority’s commitment to safety remains a top priority. Our airports are important economic generators for the city, region and province, supporting thousands of jobs and generating billions in GDP through associated economic activity. The Authority was also recognized as one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 2024.
Edmonton International Airport reflects on an instrumental year of growth
February 6, 2024 (Edmonton, AB) – Edmonton International Airport (YEG) reached more than 90 per cent of pre-pandemic passenger volumes in 2023, exceeding projections for recovery. Serving 7.5 million passengers and welcoming Frankfurt and Minneapolis as new non-stop destinations, YEG experienced significant growth, championed regional and global collaboration, and showcased innovation in the aviation industry.
“YEG continues to invest in our region by creating important non-stop routes to critical destinations that foster business development, propel the visitor economy and highlight the Edmonton Region as an attractive hub for technology, sustainability, trade and tourism. Our partnerships and collaboration continue to be at the forefront as we focus on creating a sustainable and forward-thinking aviation ecosystem at YEG.”
Myron Keehn, President & CEO, Edmonton International Airport (YEG)
Air Service
In 2023, YEG welcomed 7.5 million passengers, achieving the airport’s goal of reaching more than 90 per cent of pre-pandemic levels by the end of the year. Compared to 2022, Domestic traffic grew by 21.8%, Transborder traffic grew by 71.9% and International traffic grew by 77.5%.
Our region’s airport supported over 118,000 total aircraft movements with flights to more than 50 non-stop destinations. June 30 was the busiest day of the year, welcoming approximately 25,500 passengers.
New non-stop flights soared with Condor’s new service to Frankfurt, Germany, and WestJet’s new service to Minneapolis, Minnesota, while YEG announced Atlanta, Georgia as a brand-new non-stop destination with WestJet starting in 2024. WestJet also launched its largest network expansion in YEG’s history with new routes and enhanced domestic connectivity. Porter began service from YEG, launching with non-stop flights to Toronto, Ontario, and expanding to Ottawa, Ontario later in the year, with plans to begin service to Montreal, Quebec in 2024.
Brand new airline partners, Condor and Porter, and increased service on Air Canada, United Airlines, WestJet, KLM and other airlines have helped YEG welcome more flights to more places in 2023.
Economic Impact
Edmonton Airports, which includes Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and Villeneuve Airport (ZVL), recently completed an extensive Economic Impact Study that revealed the airports’ economic output rose to $4.9 billion in 2023. New developments and increasing passenger numbers contributed to this jump from the pre-pandemic output of $3.2 billion. Edmonton Airports supports more than 21,000 jobs and continues to drive economic prosperity for the Edmonton Metropolitan Region and beyond.
Cargo
The movement of goods continues to be a focus for YEG. In 2023, the airport welcomed a new cargo airline, Buffalo Airways, providing dedicated freighter service to Northern communities five times a week. Buffalo’s service is on a Boeing 737-300 Special Freighter, specifically customized to cater to the increasing demand for overnight freighter services to Northern Canada.
Innovative and revolutionary ways of moving goods also continued at YEG, with Canada’s first and only commercial drone route in a controlled airspace safely and successfully completing 1,538 drone flights and a distance of 4,306 kms in 2023.
New Businesses
In the terminal, four new retail stores opened: three Flight Stops and one Prairie News. YEG also welcomed back Booster Juice in Transborder. On airport lands, YEG celebrated the opening of Montana First Nation’s new warehousing and office facility, while Leduc County broke ground on a new Emergency Services Facility.
Sustainability and Partnerships
YEG is on its way to net zero by 2040 and is actively building partnerships and pathways for the adoption of emerging sustainable technologies. In addition to signing several ESG-focused memorandums of understanding (MOU) throughout the year, YEG partnered with Toyota Canada to announce Alberta’s first fleet of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV). The partnership will bring 100 FCEVs to Alberta’s roadways through partnerships and lease agreements.
This year, YEG was proud to welcome more than 750 international firefighters from South Africa, Costa Rica and Australia to assist Canada during the 2023 wildfire season. YEG also provided support to airline partners and fellow Canadians during the Northwest Territories fires by supporting evacuation efforts and offering space for aircraft to park during the wildfire impacts.
Airport for Everyone
As an Airport for Everyone, YEG works to ensure the airport is a welcoming and safe place for all. As part of that commitment, YEG relaunched the music program (YEG Stage), signed an MOU with Montana First Nation to continue working toward reconciliation and partnered with the Action Coalition on Human Trafficking (ACT) Alberta to be the first airport in Canada to provide translated materials in six languages about human trafficking to newcomers to Canada. YEG continues to offer accessibility programs such as AIRA, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, Curbside Assistance and much more.
In 2023, YEG was proud to partner with Catholic Social Services, International Rescue Committee and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to assist in coordinating the relocation of approximately 1,700 refugees on five refugee flights. These refugees were being relocated primarily from Uganda and Pakistan. These flights were a large contributor to helping meet the Federal Government’s goal to relocate 40,000 refugees by the end of 2023.
YEG Upgrades
YEG began an important infrastructure upgrade to its Departures Ramp, relocating the public passenger pick-up and drop-off areas. This was a significant undertaking as the Departures Roadway closed to all traffic and the Arrivals Roadway closed to all public traffic. A new Passenger Pick-up & Drop-off Area was established just east of the Easy Parkade, as well as a Family Loading & Unloading Zone, a new Park & Wait Area and ample wayfinding signage. Safety and Security is always YEG’s top priority, and additional team members joined the Passenger Experience team to assist passengers along the way and a region-wide campaign was launched to educate the public. The project will continue into 2024, with a new and improved Departures Roadway in our future.
About Edmonton International Airport
Edmonton International Airport (YEG) is a self-funded, not-for-profit corporation driving economic prosperity for the Edmonton Metropolitan Region and beyond. YEG is Canada’s fifth-busiest airport by passenger traffic and the largest major Canadian airport by land area, generating an economic output of over $4.9 billion and supporting over 21,000 jobs. From sustainability initiatives like Airport City Sustainability Campus to being the first airport in the world to sign The Climate Pledge and the first in Canada to begin regularly scheduled drone delivery operations, YEG is a global leader in the aviation industry. YEG approaches equity, diversity and inclusion by creating ‘an airport for everyone.’
Winnipeg Airports Authority capped off a memorable year with a passenger milestone not seen at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport since 2019.
A total of 4,094,793 people travelled through YWG in 2023, marking the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic that the airport welcomed more than four million passengers in a single year. It also represents an increase of roughly one million travellers compared to the year-end passenger count registered in 2022 and brings the airport within 91.3% of its pre-pandemic numbers.
“Looking back at our journey over the past twelve months and all that our dedicated team members were able to achieve alongside our esteemed partners, there is so much to be proud of,” said Nick Hays, President and CEO of WAA. “From new routes to new airlines to more options for travellers, 2023 was truly an exciting year as it all equates to a more connected community, making Manitoba an even better place to call home.”
Helping to propel the airport to a strong finish to the year was a fourth quarter which saw 957,081 passengers, many of whom took off during the festive season to connect with loved ones.
The holidays are also one of the busiest times of year for the YWG’s thriving cargo sector. Gross takeoff weight, a key metric in measuring air freight performance, was up 0.8% over the past three months compared to the previous year’s fourth quarter. To help support the growing demand for air cargo and deliver the infrastructure the community needs to succeed, WAA will break ground in 2024 on a new, state-of-the-art Multi-Tenant Air Cargo Logistics Facility. The project is backed by Transport Canada with a $49 million investment through the National Trade Corridors Fund, including additional funding announced this past December.
WAA’s preliminary financials for the fourth quarter show that consolidated revenue climbed 11.1% from the same period in 2022 to $40.5 million. Net income also increased, rising by $21.7 million year-over-year.
“We’re thrilled to see how far we’ve come regarding our continued recovery,” said Hays. “But, at the same time, we know we still have some way to go until we return to the solid financial position our organization previously enjoyed, as we had to take on additional borrowing during the pandemic to ensure we could continue to operate the airport – a critical piece of infrastructure for the community.”
As part of its commitment to remove barriers to create a more accessible, inclusive and welcoming airport environment, WAA introduced new sensory support kits during the fourth quarter of 2023. The kits are available to travellers for free at the airport’s Information Booth and are filled with items that can be comforting to neurodivergent individuals.
Other highlights from the past three months include WAA’s newest airline partner, Porter, announcing it will launch non-stop service between Winnipeg and Ottawa in spring 2024 and the airport unveiling a new YWG sign in the Arrivals Hall to help greet travellers to the community.
Partnership with CIB, Macquarie and Porter supports increased travel demand
CIB reached financial close on a $90 million investment towards a new domestic commercial passenger terminal at MET – Montreal Metropolitan Airport.
The new terminal will provide a convenient way for passengers travelling to and from major cities across Canada to access Montreal.
New terminal, scheduled to open in 2025, will provide modernized airport amenities for up to approximately four million travellers per year.
Rendering of Montreal Metropolitan Airport domestic terminal. (CNW Group/Canada Infrastructure Bank)
LONGUEUIL, QC, Feb. 6, 2024 /CNW/ – The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) is investing $90 million in the new domestic passenger terminal at MET – Montreal Metropolitan Airport (YHU), formerly known as the Saint-Hubert Airport. The terminal development project is a partnership between Macquarie Asset Management and Porter Aviation Holdings Inc.
The CIB’s investment enables the development of a new domestic airport terminal to enhance mobility options for Canadians travelling to and from the Montreal area, while supporting economic opportunities in the Greater Montreal region.
Located 15 kilometres from Montreal, the Montreal Metropolitan Airport project includes construction of a new standalone 21,300 m2 two-storey domestic terminal with nine gates, associated taxiways, and landside facilities such as parking lots with barrier-free parking spaces, EV charging stations, and shuttle bus pick-up and drop-off points. Additional landside facilities include terminal frontage roads, road connection from the property boundary to long-term parking lots, landscaping, and an aviation fuel farm.
The terminal is expected to meet forecasted growth of up to four million passengers per year. Construction is scheduled to be completed by fall 2025.
Porter Airlines will operate at MET using a combination of Embraer E195-E2 and Dash 8-400 aircraft, serving cities across Canada. The new terminal will be open to other airlines, including Pascan Aviation’s network of existing regional Quebec flights.
Through the CIB’s Trade and Transportation sector, which supports stronger trade and transportation corridors, the CIB’s investment in the terminal fills a gap in the capital investment structure, allowing the project to move ahead.
Endorsements
Airports connect Canadians and are key drivers of economic growth. Representing the CIB’s third investment in airport infrastructure, our loan will enable the development of the new terminal at MET – Montreal Metropolitan Airport, having a positive impact on the greater Montreal area’s economy, while providing passengers across Canada greater access to and from our second-largest city. Ehren Cory, CEO, Canada Infrastructure Bank
By supporting the Montreal Metropolitan Airport, we are offering Quebecers competitive choices and services to find affordable flights to their favorite destinations from a convenient location in Longueuil. With investments like this, we’re taking concrete action to meet Quebecers’ needs and provide them with transportation infrastructures that meet their expectations. The Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Transport and Quebec Lieutenant
The CIB’s $90 million loan towards a new domestic passenger terminal at the Montreal Metropolitan Airport will support the Greater Montréal Region’s continued economic expansion. With a forecasted growth of up to four million passengers a year, the new terminal will have greater capacity to welcome more visitors to this world-renowned destination. The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
The growth of the Montreal Metropolitan Airport represents excellent news for the economic development of Quebec. Future public and private investments will undoubtedly support an improvement in regional air service, for the benefit of Quebecers. Our government will continue to support the growth of MET. Geneviève Guilbault, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility
Attracting a strong partner like CIB demonstrates the value and appeal of the terminal development at Montréal Metropolitan Airport. It will become a showcase of transportation infrastructure for the region that serves the community for decades to come. Michael Deluce, President and CEO, Porter Aviation Holdings Inc.
CIB shares our objective of developing high-quality infrastructure in the Montréal metropolitan area. We look forward to working with CIB, Porter and other key stakeholders to ensure this important project is a success. Karl Kuchel, CEO, Macquarie Infrastructure Partners
The development of MET – Montreal Metropolitan Airport is one of the most impactful projects for Canada. It will provide citizens with a more efficient air transportation option and promote economic development of all our regions. We are pleased to have the Canada Infrastructure Bank as a strategic partner in this significant project. It is all Canadians who will benefit from their expertise and support. Yanic Roy, President and Chief Executive Officer, MET – Montreal Metropolitan Airport.
Learn More:
About Macquarie Asset Management Macquarie Asset Management is a global asset manager that aims to deliver positive impact for everyone. Trusted by institutions, pension funds, governments, and individuals to manage approximately $US573.5 billion in assets globally, we provide access to specialist investment expertise across a range of capabilities including infrastructure, green investments, real estate, agriculture & natural assets, asset finance, private credit, equities, fixed income and multi asset solutions.
Macquarie Asset Management is part of Macquarie Group, a diversified financial group providing clients with asset management, finance, banking, advisory and risk and capital solutions across debt, equity, and commodities. Founded in 1969, Macquarie Group employs more than 21,000 people in 34 markets and is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.
All figures as at 30 September 2023 unless otherwise stated. For more information, please visit Macquarie.com.
Underpinning its commitment to Canadians, airline increases domestic, leisure and international travel opportunities by 15 per cent year-over-year
CALGARY, AB, Feb. 5, 2024 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced a significant increase in coast-to-coast travel options for Canadians with the initial release of its summer 2024 schedule. The airline is set to introduce 10 new routes and return or extend 16 routes that will continue to connect Canadians as part of its robust growth strategy. Publication of WestJet’s full summer schedule will be completed over the coming week.
“Our 2024 summer schedule continues to deliver on our commitment to make critical investments across Canada, providing more affordable options for Canadians and international visitors to connect with the people and places that matter the most,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “This summer will see the return of seasonal, leisure-focused flying, to connect Eastern and Western Canada, and substantial growth in service to sun destinations, further cementing our position as Canada’s leading leisure airline. At our global hub in Calgary and cities across the country, WestJet’s schedule supports Canada’s visitor economy with more than 75,000 seats arriving each week from Europe, Asia and the United States.”
Connecting Canadians Across the Country
In addition to the continued expansion of WestJet’s network with 15 new routes to and from Western Canada, this summer Eastern Canada will benefit from 11 new routes including:
New direct seasonal service between Calgary and Deer Lake, Nfld.
The return of seasonal non-stop service between Toronto and Deer Lake, Nfld., Moncton, N.B., Charlottetown, P.E.I., and Victoria, B.C.
44 per cent growth in Halifax, N.S. and 60 per cent growth in St. John’s, Nfld. compared to Summer 2023
Leading in Leisure
As Canada’s top choice for leisure travel, the WestJet Group will offer more capacity than any other airline for Canadians looking to fly to popular sun destinations this summer. Highlights include:
57 per cent growth in Latin and Caribbean routes over summer 2023
56 per cent increase in capacity from Toronto to sun destinations
More flights between Hawaii and Canada than any other airline, and the only airline providing year-round service between Canada and Maui-Kahului, from both Calgary and Vancouver
Transborder Growth and Expanded Access to Delta hubs
Providing increased opportunities for two-way travel between Canada and the United States, WestJet will grow transborder seat capacity by 26 per cent this summer, including 70 per cent growth to Delta hubs.
Return of summer seasonal service between Halifax and St. John’s to Orlando, Florida
More direct flights to Phoenix and Las Vegas from Western Canada than any other airline
Through WestJet’s longstanding codeshare partnership with Delta Air Lines, guests can access more than 100 U.S. destinations when connecting through the U.S. airline’s hubs in Atlanta, Detroit, Minneapolis, Los Angeles and Seattle.
WestJet guests can reach Delta’s expansive U.S. network on a single purchased ticket with check-in for all flights at the first departure, baggage tagged to their final destination and lounge access for select guests. Additionally, frequent flyers of both airlines will continue to enjoy extensive reciprocal benefits anytime they fly with either carrier, including earning and redeeming WestJet dollars across the entire itinerary.
Summary of New Markets
New Routes
Returning Routes
Summer Extensions
Edmonton-Atlanta
Halifax-Dublin
Calgary-Honolulu
Edmonton-Nashville
Halifax-London (LGW)
Calgary-Maui
Edmonton-San Francisco
Halifax-Orlando
Calgary-Punta Cana
Vancouver-Detroit
St. John’s-Orlando
Calgary-Varadero
Halifax-Edinburgh
Toronto-Dublin
Vancouver-Phoenix
St. John’s-London (LGW)
Toronto-Edinburgh
Edmonton-Phoenix
Regina-Minneapolis
Toronto-Providenciales
Edmonton-Orlando
Calgary-Seoul
Toronto-Puerto Plata
Calgary-Reykjavik
Toronto-Moncton
Calgary-Deer Lake
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 100 destinations in 26 countries.
For more information about everything WestJet, please visit westjet.com.
Calgary, AB – The Calgary Airport Authority (The Authority) is delighted to be recognized as one of Alberta’s Top 80 Employers for 2024.
“We’re thrilled that our organization continues to be recognized by Alberta’s Top Employers for our dedication to our people and our culture,” says Kirstan Jewell, Chief People Officer with The Calgary Airport Authority. “The Authority is made up of outstanding individuals who are dedicated to growing and improving one of Canada’s best airports, and we are steadfast in our commitment to continue developing our YYC Crew.”
This special designation recognizes the Alberta employers that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work—and this year marks the 14th time The Authority has landed one of the top spots.
The Authority is a diverse and dynamic organization, committed to fostering its Crew while innovating on our path to creating a net zero organization. In 2023, The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to an inclusive work environment through a focus on progressing its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategy and taking important steps on its journey towards reconciliation.
What makes The Authority one of Alberta’s Top Employers?
Committed to developing its people by supporting ongoing professional development
Provides access to family-friendly benefits, including fulsome maternity leave options
Offers support for individuals caring for family members and with family-related responsibilities
Providing competitive compensation and professional development opportunities, a flexible hybrid work schedule and a comprehensive offering of employee perks and wellness supports, The Authority offers a rewarding career dedicated to building one of Canada’s best airports.
Having welcomed 107 new Crew members to our organization in 2023, including new leadership at the executive level, YYC Calgary International Airport is prepared for growth and future success as we continue working with our partners, stakeholders and community. With more than 90 non-stop destinations in Canada, the U.S., and around the world, YYC is Alberta’s gateway to the world.
For more information on how to become part of one of Alberta’s Top Employers, and to join our Crew, visit www.yyc.careers.com
About The Calgary Airport Authority
The Calgary Airport Authority is a not-for-profit organization incorporated under the Regional Airports Authorities Act of Alberta. The Authority is responsible for the management, operation and development of YYC Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Springbank Airport (YBW). The Authority’s commitment to safety remains a top priority. Our airports are important economic generators for the city, region and province, supporting thousands of jobs and generating billions in GDP through associated economic activity. The Authority was also recognized as one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 2024.
