MIRABEL, QC, Aug. 5, 2025 /CNW/ – Nolinor Aviation announces the arrival of an eighth Boeing 737-200 (registration C-FTWW), further consolidating its position as the world’s largest operator of this legendary aircraft type. Already registered in Canada, the aircraft was quickly brought back into service, immediately increasing the company’s operational capacity in remote regions.
Nolinor Aviation’s new Boeing 737-200 (CNW Group/Nolinor Aviation)
For over 30 years, Nolinor has relied on the unmatched capabilities of the 737-200 to carry out passenger, cargo, or combi missions in complex environments. Its ruggedness, reliability, and, above all, its unique ability to operate on gravel, ice, or unpaved runways make the 737-200 the most effective solution in Northern Canada. Despite attempts to replace it, gravel runways remain the simplest to maintain, the most eco-friendly, and the most realistic solution for northern operations.
“We’ve built a unique expertise over the years, and that approach is what drives our success. Trying to replicate another carrier’s model would have been a mistake. This addition to our fleet reflects our know-how and our ability to deliver solutions tailored to our clients’ needs.” – Marco Prud’Homme, President of Nolinor Aviation
This expertise is supported by complete vertical integration: most maintenance operations are handled internally at Nolinor’s specialized facilities across the country. The company also owns the world’s only active Boeing 737-200 flight simulator, located in Miami, providing customized training and high-quality standards for its crews. The result: an annual average on-time performance rate of 96%.
“It perfectly meets the needs of the mining sector, remote communities, and government missions. Its oversized cargo door, range, and payload capacity make it an unrivaled strategic tool.” – Yves Bergeron, Vice President of Operations
Finally, expansion continues: another B737-200 is currently being prepared for reentry into service by the holiday season, and a ninth is planned to be acquired in 2026 to meet growing demand.
About Nolinor Aviation
Established in 1992, Nolinor Aviation specializes in charter flights transporting passengers and cargo to remote northern destinations. Renowned for its exceptional reliability, innovative solutions, and commitment to safety, Nolinor operates a diverse fleet, notably featuring the versatile Boeing 737-200, ideal for challenging gravel and ice runways. For additional information about Nolinor Aviation and its services, please visit www.nolinor.com.
MIRABEL, QC, June 17, 2025 /CNW/ – Nolinor Aviation continues to modernize its fleet with the addition of a second Boeing 737-400, marking a key milestone in the company’s growth. This new aircraft, which joins Nolinor’s diverse fleet, enhances the company’s ability to offer even more flexible, high-performance air transport solutions tailored to the specific needs of its clients.
The Boeing 737-400 is a versatile aircraft that can accommodate up to 159 passengers. Featuring an extended fuselage and a high payload capacity of 40,065 lb, it stands out for its ability to operate over long distances—up to 4,630 km—while providing optimal onboard comfort. This model is particularly well-suited for Fly-In Fly-Out (FIFO) operations in the mining sector, as well as charter flights for transporting large groups. Its increased capacity and strong performance on paved runways make it a strategic choice for efficiently serving remote destinations.
Compared to the 737-800, the Boeing 737-400 offers more cost-effective operations while maintaining outstanding performance. This positioning makes it a particularly competitive solution for large-scale missions. In addition to its increased passenger capacity, the aircraft benefits from optimized fuel consumption, promoting greater profitability. Designed to maximize space usage in both the cabin and the cargo hold, it meets the highest industry safety standards.
“The addition of this second 737-400 to our fleet strengthens our commitment to offering diverse air solutions tailored to each client’s specific needs. Nolinor is proud to be one of the few carriers with such a varied fleet, capable of meeting the demands of the mining sector while also offering greater capacity for passenger groups. With its technical features and operational efficiency, this aircraft perfectly aligns with our goal of delivering custom solutions that combine flexibility, profitability, and performance.” – Marco Prud’Homme, President of Nolinor Aviation
Beyond its transport capabilities, the Boeing 737-400 includes notable interior upgrades, such as robust, ergonomic seating that ensures superior comfort—even on flights to mining sites or remote destinations.
The integration of this second Boeing 737-400 is part of Nolinor Aviation‘s broader strategy to diversify its air transport solutions. Thanks to its versatility and performance, this model allows the company to meet growing customer demand while reinforcing its position as a leader in air transportation to Canada’s northern regions.
About Nolinor Aviation
Established in 1992, Nolinor Aviation specializes in charter flights transporting passengers and cargo to remote northern destinations. Renowned for its exceptional reliability, innovative solutions, and commitment to safety, Nolinor operates a diverse fleet, notably featuring the versatile Boeing 737-200, ideal for challenging gravel and ice runways. For additional information about Nolinor Aviation and its services, please visit www.nolinor.com.
WestJet’s historic contract award will strengthen Western Canada aerospace hub, Lufthansa Technik’s new engine repair shop and test cell will drive job creation and long-term economic benefits
CALGARY, AB, Feb. 13, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet and Lufthansa Technik announced today that they have signed an exclusive agreement, in which Lufthansa Technik will provide engine maintenance services for the CFM International* LEAP-1B engines that power the airline’s Boeing 737 fleet. The 15-year, multi-billion-dollar contract, is the largest in WestJet’s 30-year history and followed a rigorous competitive global sourcing process. As a world leader in aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), Lufthansa Technik will establish a new engine repair station dedicated to servicing LEAP-1B engines for near-wing and quick-turn work. The facility will feature a modern test cell, the first-of-its-kind in Canada, for next generation engines and drive job creation in the region. Operations are set to begin in 2027, with WestJet as the launch customer.
Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group Chief Executive Officer, said: “WestJet was founded on the idea of improving air travel and making it affordable for Canadians. This historic contract award will allow us to bring critical engine repair operations home to Canada and provide greater efficiency and cost certainty to a critical part of our operations, all while demonstrating our commitment to improving our competitiveness and supporting the Alberta economy. We are proud to partner with Lufthansa Technik. This is an extraordinary moment for WestJet, our guests, WestJetters, Western Canada’s communities and our suppliers.”
Under the framework of the agreement, Lufthansa Technik will provide WestJet, Canada’s largest 737 MAX operator, with a broad range of services, such as quick turn shop visits, on-wing repairs and full performance restorations. The partnership encompasses WestJet’s current fleet of more than 50 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft (of 200 total aircraft), a number that is expected to grow to over 130 before the end of the decade based on the airline’s current order book. The CFM LEAP-1B engine repair operations for WestJet will be offered by Lufthansa Technik through its expansive global network. While overhauls will continue to take place at the main facility in Hamburg, Germany, and the company’s joint venture near Wrocław, Poland, Lufthansa Technik aims to introduce quick turn shop visits at the newly created repair station in Calgary, Canada.
Soeren Stark, Chief Executive Officer of Lufthansa Technik, said: “This agreement represents one of the largest awards ever granted to any MRO provider for CFM LEAP engines worldwide. It’s a contract that underlines Lufthansa Technik’s leading position in the support of new generation engine types. We greatly value WestJet’s strong confidence in our extensive expertise and our ability to serve as a trusted long-term partner. At the same time, we are grateful for the strong support from our local allies in Canada, which is essential in advancing the creation of a new engine repair shop and test cell facility in Calgary.”
CFM International, the developer and manufacturer of the LEAP-1B engines, has established an open MRO ecosystem for its LEAP engine family. As a CFM Premier MRO partner, Lufthansa Technik is licensed to deliver full MRO services for these engines. The company was the first independent MRO provider recognized by CFM to service both LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engines and has completed over 60 maintenance events, including the world’s first LEAP-1A (Airbus version of the engine) performance restoration shop visit (PRSV).
Partnering to grow a world-class aviation hub in Western Canada
The creation of Lufthansa Technik Canada’s future facility is made possible through collaboration and funding from partners including the Government of Canada, the Government of Alberta, Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF), Calgary Economic Development, Calgary International Airport and the Canada Infrastructure Bank. These partners have been vital in fostering the growth of Calgary’s aviation cluster to date.
The Calgary Airport Authority (The Authority) is proud to have signed a long-term lease agreement with Lufthansa Technik for an engine maintenance and test cell facility that will serve, amongst others, WestJet as a cornerstone customer. This $120-million investment has been secured with the support of the Government of Alberta, the Canada Infrastructure Bank, PrairiesCan and OCIF, in collaboration with Calgary Economic Development. The Authority will oversee the financing, planning, construction, and deployment phases of the related buildings, which will occupy nine acres of prime airport real estate, integrated seamlessly with Calgary International Airport’s strategic growth plans. The facility will boost regional economic development and reinforce Calgary’s role as a gateway for international aviation innovation and excellence, while providing airlines access to world-class facilities to ensure reliable, efficient and lower cost maintenance services.
The Government of Canada, through PrairiesCan, is investing $8 million for the Calgary Airport Authority to construct, fit out and equip the new 150,000 square foot aircraft engine maintenance and test facility at the Calgary International Airport.
The Government of Alberta is providing the Lufthansa Technik engine test cell and maintenance facility with a total support amount of $7.45 million through a combination of $3 million from the Investment and Growth Fund and $4.45 million from the Aerospace Workforce Development Grant. The Investment and Growth Fund is a deal closing incentive program that helps Alberta support high value, private sector, job-creating investments. The Aerospace Workforce Development Grant is aimed to provide training and workforce development support that attract investment, drive innovation and spur transformative economic development in Alberta’s aerospace sector.
OCIF is investing up to $2.5 million over four years to support Lufthansa Technik in establishing its Western Canada headquarters in Calgary including its MRO repair facility and test cell. The facility will work on more sustainable fuel and next generation engines. This initiative targets expansion of the region’s talent pool, while providing hands-on training, and positions Calgary as a leader in aerospace development.
Calgary Economic Development (CED) played a key role in Lufthansa Technik’s expansion to Calgary by connecting its leadership with key stakeholders and showcasing the city’s competitive business environment and thriving aviation sector. CED also highlighted Calgary’s skilled talent pool through detailed projections, post-secondary partnerships, and technical expertise.
The wholly owned Canadian subsidiary of Lufthansa Technik plans to create up to 160 new jobs in Calgary by 2030. Construction of the engine maintenance facility is scheduled to begin mid-2025 and is expected to take about two years. Once completed, it will allow for a range of engine maintenance functions and work that has been historically performed outside Canada. To prepare for operations, a dedicated training centre will open this year to equip new employees with the necessary skills. Recruitment for various positions will begin soon.
Lufthansa Technik’s expansion into Western Canada supports its “Ambition 2030” strategy, focusing on investments in core operations and global growth. A key part of this is enhancing MRO capabilities to meet growing demand, especially for the CFM LEAP-1B engine. The aircraft powerplant of the Boeing 737 MAX is becoming the leading engine in the Americas region. This presents significant opportunities for Lufthansa Technik to grow business with various North American airlines. To capitalize on this growth, the company plans to significantly scale up its quick-turn capacities and bolster its footprint in the region.
WestJet’s focus on regional development is evident in its global aviation hub in Calgary. As a result of strategic investments, the city has become the most connected mid-sized hub in North America. WestJet’s ongoing commitment to building a world-class aerospace cluster in Calgary contributes to economic growth and creating new job opportunities. This next phase of WestJet’s growth will not only strengthen Calgary’s position in the global aviation landscape but also enhance the economic prosperity of the region. The multi-billion-dollar contract and partnership between WestJet and Lufthansa Technik builds on the foundational WestJet-Government of Alberta Memorandum of Understanding to stimulate economies, create sustainable employment and build infrastructure for continued expansion.
Additional Quotes:
“Alberta’s government is proud to welcome Lufthansa Technik Canada to Calgary. This major project will have a far-reaching impact on our economy and it serves as a testament to the strong levels of investor confidence in our province. Alberta is a place where you can grow your business and thrive into the future. With our low corporate tax rate and highly educated workforce, Alberta continues to be one of the most business-friendly jurisdictions in North America. Today’s investment is further proof of Alberta’s national and international reputation as a leading aerospace and aviation hub.” – Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta
“This new, state-of-the-art facility is a major step toward making Calgary and Alberta global leaders in aviation innovation. Our government is proud to partner with the Calgary Airport Authority, industry leaders, and all levels of government to strengthen Canada’s aviation sector. We beat out strong competition to secure this opportunity, showcasing our region’s innovative spirit and commitment to reducing emissions. Together, we’re developing and adopting cutting-edge technologies that will boost the competitiveness of small and medium-sized businesses across the aviation supply chain.” – The Honourable Terry Duguid, Minister for PrairiesCan
“Lufthansa Technik Canada’s investment is the latest addition to our growing aviation and aerospace sector. Alberta continues to attract world-class companies like Lufthansa Technik because of its pro-business policies, low taxes, and innovative talent. This investment will create hundreds of jobs for hard-working Albertans and further diversify our economy.” – Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade
“This investment strengthens Calgary’s role as a hub for aerospace innovation and advanced aviation technologies. By attracting industry leaders like Lufthansa Technik, we are ensuring our city remains a beacon for forward-thinking talent and groundbreaking technological advancements.” – Mayor Jyoti Gondek
“We are proud to commit $172 million in financing towards infrastructure that supports aviation services at the Calgary International Airport. Our collaboration with the Calgary Airport Authority moves their project from the planning stage into shovels in the ground. The world-class facilities will strengthen Canada’s aviation infrastructure, bring long-term, high-quality jobs and economic growth to the region.” – Ehren Cory, CEO, Canada Infrastructure Bank
“With the support of OCIF, Calgary continues to cement itself as a destination for innovators and blue-sky thinkers. This new facility builds on previous investments as part of our strategy to support talent development, scale companies and position Calgary as an aerospace innovation hub — creating jobs and strengthening economic resilience for our city and for future generations.” – Brad Parry, CEO, Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund
“This project is a remarkable example of what can be achieved when our aviation ecosystem and all levels of government come together – Lufthansa Technik as the premier supplier, WestJet as a vital cornerstone customer, critical support from Calgary Economic Development and the Government of Alberta through the Ministry of Jobs, Economy and Trade along with the Calgary Airport Authority, the Canada Infrastructure Bank, Prairies Economic Development Canada and Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund. By building this cutting-edge facility in Calgary, we ensure that WestJet and all Canadian airlines will have access to reliable, cost-effective and efficient maintenance services while building essential infrastructure in engineering, training and enterprise to make Calgary and Alberta a centre of aviation excellence within North America.” – Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO, Calgary Airport Authority.
“After years of hard work and collaboration to showcase our city and build connections with industry partners, we are excited to see Lufthansa Technik land in the Blue Sky City. Calgary’s competitive business environment and deep talent pool position us for future growth, and the establishment of Lufthansa Technik’s Western Canada hub in our city proves what’s possible as we continue to establish ourselves as a global aerospace leader.” – Brad Parry, President and CEO, Calgary Economic Development
* Lufthansa Technik is an authorized LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B Service Provider licensed by CFM International
* CFM International is a 50/50 joint company between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines
* CFM LEAP Premier MRO shops are part of an open MRO ecosystem in which CFM, Premier MRO providers, and third-party shops compete for MRO work. Premier MRO licensees retain the highest level of training and support from CFM, as well as increased access to proprietary overhaul and repair technology. Because the open MRO ecosystem fosters competition, it allows operators to optimize costs, secure induction slots and turnaround times to meet their schedule work scope needs and supports higher engine residual value as seen with CFM56 engines today.
About WestJet
WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia.
As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians.
Learn more about WestJet at westjet.com/en-ca/who-we-are (also available in French)
About Lufthansa Technik
The Lufthansa Technik Group is one of the leading providers of technical aircraft services in the world. Certified internationally as maintenance, production and design organization, the company employs more than 24,000 people in dozens of locations around the globe. Lufthansa Technik offers the full range of services for commercial, VIP and special mission aircraft. The portfolio includes maintenance, repair, overhaul and modification of airframes, engines, components and landing gears, as well as the manufacture of innovative cabin products and digital fleet support.
Learn more about Lufthansa Technik at lufthansa-technik.com
SAINT-LAURENT, QC, July 16, 2024 /CNW/ – Air Inuit today announced the first of three Boeing Next-Generation 737-800s acquired in 2023 entered into service, arriving at Kuujjuaq Airport today with its inaugural delivery of essential freight to be distributed in communities across Nunavik.
The B737-800 has been outfitted to serve exclusively as a freighter aircraft with a main deck cargo door, operating primarily between Montreal and Air Inuit’s cargo hubs in Kuujjuaq and La Grande. The newly added aircraft has a capacity of 23,000 kilograms.
Air Inuit B737-800 NG arrives in Kuujjuaq on July 16, 2024 (CNW Group/Air Inuit)
As part of its ongoing fleet modernization program, Air Inuit will eventually phase out its B737-200s which are being replaced with three B737-800 NG aircraft to improve passenger experience, ensure reliable freight delivery and reduce fuel emissions by nearly 40 per cent.
“By equipping these aircraft with customized features based on Air Inuit’s unique requirements and knowhow, we are ensuring the perennity of our fleet as we fulfill our mission as an essential service,” said Christian Busch, president and CEO of Air Inuit.
“Air Inuit serves as a critical infrastructure for the people of Nunavik, and today is a powerful demonstration of how we are continuously improving the quality of our service in ways that meet customer needs while acting as a responsible company when it comes to environmental considerations,” said Executive Chairman, Noah Tayara.
The two other B737-800 NG aircraft will operate using an innovative combi configuration pioneered by Air Inuit to provide comfortable passenger service and reliable freight delivery simultaneously. Both are scheduled to go into service in 2025.
“Seeing the first of three Boeing Next-Generation 737-800s begin operating is a moment of pride on behalf of the Inuit of Nunavik, and a reminder of our never-ending goal to always seek new ways to improve while also doing our part to reduce our ecological footprint,” said Pita Aatami, President of Makivvik.
About Air Inuit
Founded by the Inuit of Nunavik in 1978, Air Inuit, a wholly owned subsidiary of Makivvik, was created to provide air connections between Nunavik’s 14 coastal villages and the South, to promote trade and to preserve Inuit culture. With more than 1,175 employees and a fleet of 36 aircraft, Air Inuit is committed to the development of this immense territory and the prosperity of its people by providing support to various community organizations, cultural events, educational and sports programs, as well as the implementation of employment access programs for Inuit people.
New flights to Tulum, Mexico and Grenada added for winter 2024/2025
The WestJet Group continues to strengthen its transborder, sun and domestic network
CALGARY, AB, May 21, 2024 /CNW/ – The WestJet Group today announced further network expansion with the addition of new service to Tulum, Mexico and the island of Grenada in the Caribbean, bolstering the Group’s extensive leisure portfolio this winter. Additionally, the airline is enhancing its transborder offerings with new flights to Fort Lauderdale, FL., from Vancouver and Winnipeg.
“Our strategy to establish the WestJet Group as Canada’s western leader and national leisure champion is working, as we continue to offer the most robust and affordable coast-to-coast schedule, fine-tuned to meet the needs of Canadian travellers,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “Cementing our position as the country’s leading leisure airline, the WestJet Group will provide more seat capacity than any other airline to sun destinations this winter.”
Welcoming Tulum to our network from Calgary and Toronto, new routes to Mexico from Kelowna and Winnipeg
The introduction of service to Tulum’s newly opened international airport from Calgary and Toronto further solidifies WestJet’s position as Canada’s top choice for Riviera Maya travel. In addition to the strongest schedule, WestJet Vacations will offer packages to 35 major hotels in close proximity to the Aeropuerto Internacional de Tulum Felipe Carillo (TQO).
This winter, WestJet will also add once-weekly service from Kelowna to Mazatlán and Winnipeg to Los Cabos.
Route
Frequency
Start Date
End Date
Calgary-Tulum
1x weekly
November 9, 2024
April 27, 2025
Toronto-Tulum
3x weekly
November 9, 2024
April 27, 2025
Kelowna-Mazatlán
1x weekly
December 13, 2024
April 18, 2025
Winnipeg-Los Cabos
1x weekly
November 9, 2024
April 26, 2025
New flights from Toronto to the Caribbean’s spice island
Unlocking new opportunities for Canadians to explore the beautiful island known for its spices, beaches and waterfalls, service between Toronto and Grenada will operate once weekly this winter. Flights are conveniently timed for connectivity across Western Canada and will be available for sale in the coming weeks for service starting November 3, 2024, to April 27, 2025.
Toronto-Grenada
1x weekly
November 3, 2024
April 27, 2025
*Subject to government approval
“With the addition of this new route, the WestJet Group expands accessibility to Grenada for Canadians, inviting them to explore the Spice Island’s vibrant culture, pristine beaches, and lush landscapes. We’re thrilled to partner with WestJet in welcoming travellers to discover Grenada’s charm and hospitality,” said Petra Roach, CEO, Grenada Tourism Authority.
Transborder and Domestic Year-Round Enhancements
With the largest narrowbody order book in Canada, the WestJet Group continues to expand its transborder offerings, further enhancing sun service with the addition of once-weekly flights to Fort Lauderdale, FL., from Vancouver and Winnipeg beginning in November.
Vancouver-Ft. Lauderdale
1x weekly
November 3, 2024
April 20, 2025
Winnipeg-Ft. Lauderdale
1x weekly
November 18, 2024
April 21, 2025
“WestJet continues to invest in building the connectivity our community needs to thrive,” said Nick Hays, President and CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority. “Today’s announcement gives our region even more options to the destinations that matter.”
As previously announced, the airline will continue to strengthen connectivity to key Delta Air Lines hubs with service from Edmonton to Atlanta and Regina to Minneapolis, moving to year-round. Additionally, Canadians will benefit from year-round connectivity from Edmonton to Ottawa and Montreal and from Winnipeg to Montreal.
Route
Frequency
Start Date
End Date
Edmonton-Atlanta
Daily
Year-round
Year-round
Regina-Minneapolis
Daily
Year-round
Year-round
Edmonton-Montreal
4x weekly
Year-round
Year-round
Edmonton-Ottawa
5x weekly
Year-round
Year-round
Winnipeg-Montreal
5x weekly
Year-round
Year-round
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.
CHICAGO, IL / ACCESSWIRE / April 22, 2024 / Aircraft Engine Lease Finance, Inc (“AELF”) announced today that it leased a recently acquired Boeing 737-8AL to Canadian carrier, Air North, Yukon’s Airline, the first of this type for the airline.
“We couldn’t be happier about adding Air North to our client base,” said Joe Cirillo, Head of Global Marketing for AELF. “The airline has a strong operation which provides critical air infrastructure to the communities of the Yukon territories, in addition to having a rich history and a wonderful culture. We’re honored to work with Joe Sparling and his team to play a role in Air North’s growth and continued prosperity.”
The long-standing carrier commenced operations in the Yukon in 1977 and has served the area consistently for more than 45 years. Over the years, the Air North fleet has expanded from single-engine aircraft in its infancy, to turboprops in the 1980s and ’90s, to 737 classics beginning in the early 2000s. AELF leased the first New Gen aircraft into the airline, marking an important milestone.
“With today’s increasing focus on the environment, moving ahead to Next Generation Boeing 737s is a significant step for us. Passengers will be impressed by the contemporary, comfortable cabin, and the fuel efficiency and other cost savings will help us to deliver a great product at a fair price for years to come,” said Joseph Sparling, CEO and co-founder of Air North.
About AELF
Aircraft Engine Lease Finance Inc. (“AELF”) is an experienced leader in commercial aircraft leasing. Based in Chicago, AELF offers customized and flexible financing solutions to airlines and commercial aircraft operators worldwide. AELF has been in operation for almost a decade and owns a fleet of A330-200s and 737-800s as well as an engine portfolio. The company is strategically expanding its presence in the 737NG market.
About Air North
Air North, Yukon’s Airline, was founded in 1977 and provides scheduled service between the Yukon and seven gateway cities in southern Canada as well as scheduled service within the Yukon. Air North is truly Yukon’s Airline with about one in 15 Yukon residents holding an equity or employment stake in the airline, including the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation, who hold a 49% stake. Visit www.flyairnorth.com to learn more.
Approval signals bright future for WestJet Cargo and the GTA Group as dedicated freighters prepare for takeoff with first departure set for April 22, 2023
CALGARY, AB, March 20, 2023 /CNW/ – WestJet Cargo today announced that it has received Transport Canada’s approval and official certification of its four 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCF). Following certification, WestJet Cargo and the GTA Group will expeditiously implement three freighters into service, as dedicated aircraft that will fulfill the large-scale needs of businesses, freight forwarders, shippers and individual customers across North America. The fourth of WestJet Cargo’s dedicated freighters is expected to join the accompanying fleet later this year, following the completion of its conversion.
“Today is a long-awaited milestone for WestJet Cargo and the GTA Group, that will now enable us to disrupt the air cargo industry in Canada by providing our customers with more choice, competitive prices and the exemplary customer service synonymous with the WestJet brand, but unique to the air cargo industry,” said Kirsten de Bruijn, WestJet Executive Vice-President, Cargo. “We thank Transport Canada for its dedication to certifying these aircraft, which will serve to better support Canada’s national transportation supply chain through increased competition and capacity within Canada’s air cargo market.”
Seamlessly integrating into WestJet Cargo’s existing operations and operated by WestJet’s highly skilled 737 pilots, the dedicated freighters will initially focus service within North America, serving Calgary, Halifax, Toronto, Vancouver, Los Angeles and Miami. Leveraging its quick to load and fly narrow body aircraft, the 737-800 equipped with CFM56-7B engines will enable WestJet Cargo to offer greater fuel efficiency, flexibility and frequency for its customers, beginning April 22, 2023.
WestJet Cargo’s dedicated freighter routes will further connect to the bellies of WestJet’s fleet, serving to accommodate the diverse needs of cargo customers in leveraging the airline’s expansive network.
“Today’s announcement was made possible by our incredibly talented team of cargo experts and the GTA Group, our valued partner, who have worked diligently towards this achievement that brings WestJet Cargo one step closer to fulfilling our mission to bring competitive cost advantages and reliable on-time performance to Canada’s underserved cargo landscape,” continued de Bruijn.
“Today is an exciting day for the GTA Group as we celebrate this highly anticipated moment that will bring our partnership with WestJet Cargo to new heights,” said Mario (Mauro) D’Urso, Chairman of the GTA Group of Companies. “Through the capacity of these four dedicated freighters, we are now in an excellent position to meet the needs of the rapidly growing Canadian cargo market.”
WestJet Cargo freighter bookings will be made available on April 1, 2023. To learn more about how WestJet Cargo’s team, network and flight plans can fulfill a diverse array of shipping needs, visit WestJet Cargo.
About WestJet Cargo
A dedicated division of the WestJet Group of Companies, WestJet Cargo provides air cargo services to businesses, freight forwarders, shippers and individual customers. Providing safe, reliable air-shipping for customers and businesses, WestJet Cargo utilizes the expansive network of WestJet’s wide and narrow-bodied aircraft and its newly introduced fleet of four dedicated Boeing 737-800 Converted Freighters (BCF) to meet the diverse needs of its cargo customers. For more information on WestJet Cargo please visit: westjetcargo.com.
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.
For more information about everything WestJet, please visit westjet.com.
Vilnius, January 2, 2023 – GetJet Airlines, the IOSA-approved Lithuanian ACMI and Charter carrier, has announced the wet-lease of 1 B737-800 to Fly Swoop, the Canadian ultra-low-cost carrier owned by WestJet, the second largest airline in Canada and one of the top 10 airlines in North America by the number of passengers carried.
GetJet Airlines’ Boeing 737-800 bearing the registration LY-DUE was delivered to Toronto Pearson International Airport on New Year’s Eve, the 31st of December 2022, before beginning commercial operations within Fly Swoops’ network on the 1st of January 2023.
“GetJet Airlines is delighted to kick off 2023 with this exciting collaboration along Fly Swoop. We have grown from strength to strength during this winter season, with our company’s portfolio expanding internationally, as our current fleet has a strong footprint across four continents , serving clients in Europe, Africa, Asia, and North America. It is an encouraging indicator that the aviation industry is on the right track of recovery as airlines are continuously looking to expand their networks,” commented Rūta Kulvinskaitė, GetJet Airlines CEO.
GetJet Airlines has a proven experience in the Canadian market – the company has operated flights on behalf of Sunwings, the Canadian leisure carrier. The partnership was a milestone in the airlines’ growth internationally in 2019.
About GetJet Airlines
GetJet Airlines is a Lithuanian airline company, providing ACMI and charter services since 2016. GetJet Airlines operates a fleet consisting of Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 NG type aircraft. The company provides wet lease and charter services worldwide to airlines and tour operators, including Wizz Air, Corendon Airlines, Norwegian, LOT, Finnair, SpiceJet, and others.
