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Tag: Moncton YQM

  • Air Transat and WestJet launch Transatlantic codeshare

    Air Transat and WestJet launch Transatlantic codeshare

    MONTREAL and CALGARY, AB, April 28, 2022 /CNW Telbec/ – Today, Air Transat and WestJet have launched a new transatlantic codeshare. WestJet’s “WS” code is now activated for sale on select Air Transat operated flights to/from France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, and Croatia. Connections via Montreal and Toronto are now available for flight dates beginning May 17, 2022.

    On May 4, 2022, Air Transat’s “TS” code will be activated on select WestJet flights, and from that date Air Transat will also offer itineraries connecting select WestJet flights with appealing Air Transat European destinations. 

    “We are very excited to launch this codeshare agreement with WestJet,” said Michèle Barre, Vice President, Network, Revenue Management and Pricing of Air Transat.  “The complementarity of our respective networks allows us to offer more alternatives to our customers, providing them with a quality and affordable product. This partnership is part of Air Transat’s development strategy, enhancing our long-standing presence in the transatlantic market.”

    “This new codeshare with Air Transat complements our growing global network, allowing WestJet to offer guests exciting new destinations in Europe,” said John Weatherill, Chief Commercial Officer, WestJet.  “As our guests return to travel, these new options will connect North America and Europe in new ways and benefit guests on both sides of the Atlantic.” 

    With this new codeshare, guests now have more options for their transatlantic travel, and will enjoy conveniences such as a single purchase for connecting flights, the ability to check in for all flights at their first departure, and baggage checked through to their final destination.

    Once activated, both Air Transat and WestJet codeshare ticket sales will be available via the carriers’ websites and call centers, as well as via major GDS systems and travel agencies.

    Subject to connectivity between their scheduled flights, Air Transat and WestJet will both offer the following transatlantic routings:

    WestJet
    Operated Flights
    Air Transat “TS”
    Codeshare
    Applied    		Connection
    Via    		Air Transat Operated Flights
    WestJet “WS” Codeshare Applied
    Deer Lake
    St. John’s
    Halifax
    Sydney
    Fredericton
    Moncton
    Charlottetown
    Montreal
    Quebec City 
    London, ON
    Ottawa
    Thunder Bay
    Toronto
    Winnipeg
    Regina
    Saskatoon
    Boston
    N.Y. LaGuardia    		Montreal

    Toronto    		France:  Bordeaux, Marseille, Nantes, Nice 

    Italy:  Lamezia, Rome

    Spain: Malaga  

    Portugal:  Faro

    Switzerland: Basel-Mulhouse

    Croatia: Zagreb

    About Air Transat

    Founded in Montreal 35 years ago, Air Transat is a leading leisure travel brand. Voted World’s Best Leisure Airline by passengers at the Skytrax World Airline Awards, it flies to international and Canadian destinations, striving to serve its customers with enthusiasm and friendliness at every stage of their trip or stay, and emphasizing safety throughout. It is renewing its fleet with the greenest aircraft in their category as part of a commitment to a healthier environment, knowing that this is essential to its operations and the magnificent destinations it offers. Air Transat is a business unit of Transat A.T. Inc., a world-renowned holiday travel provider that has achieved Travelife certification in 2018 in recognition of its sustainability commitments.

    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

  • Porter adding three non-stop routes for the Maritimes at Toronto City Airport

    Halifax, Fredericton, Moncton receiving new service

    TORONTO, Feb. 17, 2022 /CNW/ – Porter Airlines is boosting its presence in the Maritimes in a big way with three new non-stop routes connecting Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport to Halifax, Fredericton and Moncton.

    Non-stop Halifax service begins April 7, featuring up to three daily roundtrips in summer, while Fredericton and Moncton both start May 5, with one daily year-round non-stop flight each. This new service is in addition to existing flights for each market that stop in Montreal or Ottawa, and don’t require passengers to change aircraft.

    Porter adding three non-stop routes for the Maritimes at Toronto City Airport. Halifax, Fredericton, Moncton receiving new service (CNW Group/Porter Airlines)
    Porter adding three non-stop routes for the Maritimes at Toronto City Airport. Halifax, Fredericton, Moncton receiving new service (CNW Group/Porter Airlines)

    The combination of increased flight frequency and non-stop service links Atlantic Canada more conveniently with Porter’s network in Ontario and the U.S., including for Newfoundland travellers who benefit from the creation of a single connection trip to Toronto via Halifax.

    Porter offers these markets their only direct access to downtown Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport. This includes the ability to make easier connections to onward destinations given the airport’s modest size. Available connecting flights for each market are as follows:

    Halifax

    • Boston
    • Chicago-Midway
    • New York-Newark
    • Washington-Dulles
    • Sault Ste. Marie
    • Thunder Bay
    • Windsor

    Fredericton

    • Boston
    • Chicago-Midway
    • New York-Newark
    • Thunder Bay
    • Timmins

    Moncton

    • Boston
    • Chicago-Midway
    • New York-Newark
    • Sault Ste. Marie
    • Sudbury
    • Thunder Bay
    • Timmins
    • Windsor

    Connecting flights may vary by season. Complete flight schedule and booking information is available on www.flyporter.com.

    All passengers benefit from Porter’s award-winning customer service and in-flight experience, including complimentary beer and wine served in glassware, and a selection of free premium snacks.

    Quotes

    “These three established Porter markets in Atlantic Canada will see significant service improvements with new year-round, non-stop routes and many opportunities for convenient connecting flights. It also demonstrates our commitment to investing in Billy Bishop Airport, which serves as an important regional transportation hub and provides exceptional access to central Toronto.”

    –       Michael Deluce, president and CEO, Porter Airlines

    “As Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport continues to rebuild and recover following the initial impacts of the pandemic, we welcome and celebrate announcements such as this one from Porter Airlines that demonstrates a commitment to providing improved and convenient access for Canadians, and reminds us of the importance of travelling and finding new adventures in areas near and far. The year-round, non-stop routes to these three important Atlantic destinations will give travellers more of what they expect from our airport – convenience, efficiency and excellent service.”

    –       Gene Cabral, Executive Vice President, PortsToronto and Billy Bishop Airport

    “We’re thrilled to see Halifax’s connection to the Toronto market expanding with Porter’s new non-stop service to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. This new route will provide our passengers with more choice and the added convenience of arriving and departing just minutes from the heart of the city. We appreciate Porter’s commitment to increasing air service in our community and look forward to working together as we collectively recover from the pandemic.”

    –       Joyce Carter, president and CEO, Halifax International Airport Authority

    “Fredericton is a dynamic and resilient city, and Porter is an important partner as well as a great airline. Both leisure and business travellers will benefit from this non-stop flight from Fredericton to downtown Toronto, as well as the connections it provides to Porter’s network.”

    –       Johanne Gallant, president and CEO, Fredericton International Airport Authority

    “Porter has been a valued airline partner at YQM since 2010. We are very excited to see a new route to YTZ in addition to Ottawa. This direct connection to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will allow our travellers a one-stop connection to Porter’s extended Canadian and USA network. So whether one wishes to see the Blue Jays in Toronto, the White Sox in Chicago, or the Sleeping Giant in Thunder Bay, it is very easy to get there for both business and leisure travellers. We look forward to our region’s strong support of this new Porter offering from Greater Moncton!”

    –       Bernard LeBlanc, president and CEO, Greater Moncton International Airport Authority

    About Porter Airlines

    Porter Airlines provides a warm and effortless approach to hospitality, restoring glamour and refinement to air travel. Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®.

    The airline currently offers flights to Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Fredericton, Moncton, Halifax, St. John’s, Thunder Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury, Timmins, Windsor, New York (Newark), Chicago (Midway), Boston and Washington (Dulles), and has seasonal flights to Mt. Tremblant, Que., Muskoka, Ont., Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Stephenville, N.L.

    More information on Porter, including a downloadable multimedia library, is available at the Media Centre. Details of growth plans to provide North America-wide service are available at flyporter.com.

  • Swoop Announces Significant Fleet Growth and Domestic Network Expansion

    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

    RoutePeak
    Weekly
    Frequency    		Start DateTotal one-
    way fare
    (CAD)     †    		Base
    Fare
    (CAD)    		Taxes and
    Fees (CAD)
    Hamilton to Charlottetown4x weeklyMay 1, 2022$49.00$1.29$47.71
    Edmonton to Halifax5x weeklyMay 1, 2022$179.00$118.40$60.60
    Toronto to Charlottetown3x weeklyMay 2, 2022$59.00$5.14$53.86
    Hamilton to Moncton4x weeklyMay 9, 2022$79.00$27.84$51.16
    Toronto to Saint John4x weeklyMay 12, 2022$59.00$5.14$53.86
    Hamilton to Deer Lake2x weeklyMay 21, 2022$59.00$9.23$49.77
    Hamilton to St. John’s5x weeklyJune 13, 2022$99.00$45.54$53.46
    Winnipeg to Saskatoon2x weeklyJune 14, 2022$59.00$3.12$55.88
    Winnipeg to Regina2x weeklyJune 16, 2022$59.00$3.12$55.88
    Winnipeg to Ottawa4x weeklyJune 19, 2022$65.00$6.83$58.17
    Halifax to OttawaDailyJune 19, 2022$60.00$0.10$59.90
    Edmonton to Charlottetown2x weeklyJune 19, 2022$179.00$118.40$60.60
    Toronto to Deer Lake2x weeklyJune 20, 2022$99.00$40.54$58.46
    Toronto to WinnipegDailyJune 20, 2022$69.00$13.99$55.01
    Edmonton to Moncton2x weeklyJune 20, 2022$179.00$118.40$60.60
    Toronto to Regina2x weeklyJune 22, 2022$59.00$19.12$39.88
    Toronto to Saskatoon2x weeklyJune 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 6th 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

    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.     

  • Swoop Announces Major Expansion and Investment in Edmonton and Brings Nine New Routes to Alberta Capital

    Swoop Announces Major Expansion and Investment in Edmonton and Brings Nine New Routes to Alberta Capital

    • Ultra-low fare airline announces its largest expansion ever with eight new domestic routes as part of summer schedule and new non-stop service to Palm Springs
    • Brings enhanced connectivity to Atlantic Canada with first ever non-stop flights from Edmonton to New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island and new non-stops to Nova Scotia
    • Reaffirms commitment to city by naming its newest aircraft #Edmonton
    Tom Ruth, President and CEO of Edmonton International Airport welcomes Swoop's newest aircraft #Edmonton (CNW Group/Swoop)
    Tom Ruth, President and CEO of Edmonton International Airport welcomes Swoop’s newest aircraft #Edmonton (CNW Group/Swoop)

    EDMONTON, AB, Nov. 15, 2021 /CNW/ – Today, Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low fare airline, reaffirmed its commitment to the Edmonton Metropolitan Region with the announcement of new service to one U.S. and eight domestic destinations from its Western Canadian base. The airline’s significant new investments were celebrated this morning alongside the unveiling of Swoop’s newest aircraft, which will fly with the name #Edmonton.

    The airline’s growth will see Swoop’s flight capacity in Alberta’s capital increase 76% compared to pre-pandemic levels, supporting the creation of 140 additional direct and spin-off jobs and an anticipated $120M of economic output activityi in 2022.

    From left to right (Juanita Marois, CEO, Métis Crossing, Tom Ruth, President & CEO, Edmonton International Airport, Charles Duncan, President of Swoop, Rajan Sawhney, Alberta Minister of Transportation, Rick Smith, Deputy Mayor of Leduc County, Tim Cartmell, City Councillor, City of Edmonton) (CNW Group/Swoop)
    From left to right (Juanita Marois, CEO, Métis Crossing, Tom Ruth, President & CEO, Edmonton International Airport, Charles Duncan, President of Swoop, Rajan Sawhney, Alberta Minister of Transportation, Rick Smith, Deputy Mayor of Leduc County, Tim Cartmell, City Councillor, City of Edmonton) (CNW Group/Swoop)

    “This is a major milestone for Swoop as we underscore our commitment to leading the way for ultra-low fare air travel in Canada and reaffirm our position as the airline with the most destinations from Edmonton,” said Charles Duncan, President of Swoop. “With a strong focus on growth and Edmonton as our partner, we will continue to provide our travellers with more non-stop flights and ultra-low fares while supporting the recovery of Canada’s travel and tourism economy.”

    New non-stop flights to eight Canadian cities 

    The addition of eight new Canadian destinations to Swoop’s summer schedule will see non-stop service from Edmonton to Charlottetown, Comox, Halifax, Kelowna, Moncton, Ottawa, Regina and Saskatoon. Swoop will be the first carrier to bring non-stop connectivity from Edmonton International Airport to Charlottetown and Moncton and the airline’s summer schedule will also see the restoration of service to London, Ont. 

    Hello, Palm Springs!

    Beginning December 16, Swoop’s transborder presence is growing from Edmonton with the addition of new service to Palm Springs. The scheduled non-stop service to Palm Springs will operate twice weekly.

    #Edmonton

    To commemorate its history and commitment to Edmonton, Swoop celebrated the naming of its newest aircraft #Edmonton alongside key government leaders and business stakeholders at Edmonton International Airport.

    Following the event, the Boeing 737-800 aircraft entered service for the operation of flight WO 770 departing Edmonton at 12:00 local time, en route to Phoenix (Mesa), Arizona with a scheduled arrival of 3:30 PM local time. Edmontonians can expect to see #Edmonton operating several of Swoop’s newly announced routes.

    Full schedule details of Swoop’s service from Edmonton can be found below.

     Domestic Routes

    RoutePeak Weekly
    Frequency    		Start DateTotal one-
    way fare
    (CAD)     †    		Base Fare
    (CAD)    		Taxes and
    Fees (CAD)     
    Edmonton – Halifax*5x weeklyMay 1, 2022$159$104.35$54.65
    Edmonton – Charlottetown*2x weeklyJune 16, 2022$159$104.35$54.65
    Edmonton – Kelowna*7x weeklyMay 5, 2022$49$1.59$47.41
    Edmonton – Ottawa*4x weeklyApril 25, 2022$59$9.12$49.88
    Edmonton – Comox*3x weeklyJune 9, 2022$49$1.59$47.41
    Edmonton – Regina*2x weeklyJune 16. 2022$49$1.59$47.41
    Edmonton – Saskatoon*2x weeklyJune 14, 2022$49$1.59$47.41
    Edmonton – Moncton*2x weeklyJune 17, 2022$159$104.35$54.65
    Edmonton – London3x weeklyJune 2, 2022$59$9.11$49.88
    Edmonton – Winnipeg4x weeklyContinuing$160$105.30$54.69
    Edmonton – Toronto14x weeklyContinuing$59$9.12$49.88
    Edmonton – Hamilton7x weeklyContinuing$60$10.06$49.94
    Edmonton – Abbotsford7x weeklyContinuing$49$1.59$47.41
    Edmonton – Victoria7x weeklyContinuing$60$12.06$47.94
    †Special introductory fares are limited quantity. Book by November 29, 2021 for travel between May 2 and June 22, 2022.

    Transborder Routes

    RoutePeak Weekly
    Frequency    		Start DateTotal one-
    way fare
    (CAD)     †    		Base Fare
    (CAD)    		Taxes and
    Fees (CAD)     
    Edmonton – Las Vegas7x weeklyContinuing$99$8.84$90.16
    Edmonton – Phoenix (Mesa)1x weeklyContinuing$110$18.36$91.63
    † Book by November 29, 2021 for travel between May 2 and June 22, 2022.

    New Service to Palm Springs

    RoutePeak Weekly
    Frequency    		Start DateTotal one-
    way fare
    (CAD)     †    		Base Fare
    (CAD)    		Taxes and
    Fees (CAD)
    Edmonton – Palm Springs*2x WeeklyDecember 16, 2021$99$7.89$91.11
    †Special introductory fares are limited quantity. Book by November 29, 2021 for travel between January 10 and February 19, 2022.

    Supporting Quotes

    “Swoop’s commitment to Edmonton is a clear sign that there is confidence in Alberta’s Recovery Plan. The new routes across Canada and to Palm Springs open up exciting opportunities for tourism and business.”

    • Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Transportation

    “I want to thank Swoop for supporting the Edmonton Metropolitan Region. Having increased connections across Canada and beyond through Edmonton International Airport is vital for our region. As a major city contributing to Alberta’s recovery, strong air service will help us create jobs and grow our economy.”

    • Amarjeet Sohi, Mayor of Edmonton

    “Next time you hear a plane passing over, look up, look way up, and you just might see #Edmonton flying by. Thank you Swoop for naming one of your fleet after our great community, we’re honoured you will help carry the name Edmonton across Canada and North America. Your dedication to the Edmonton Metropolitan Region is helping bring more low-cost travel options for our passengers and we can’t wait for these new destinations to start.”

    • Tom Ruth, President and CEO, Edmonton International 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 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.     

    i Source: Swoop 2022 Edmonton International Airport Economic Impacts performed by the Chris Lowe Group

  • Porter Airlines returns to the air

    TORONTO, Sept. 8, 2021 /CNW/ – Porter Airlines officially returns to the skies today, almost 18 months after suspending flights due to COVID-19 public health and travel restrictions.

    Porter Airlines officially returns to the skies today, almost 18 months after suspending flights due to COVID-19 public health and travel restrictions. (CNW Group/Porter Airlines)
    Porter Airlines officially returns to the skies today, almost 18 months after suspending flights due to COVID-19 public health and travel restrictions. (CNW Group/Porter Airlines)

    Flights to Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa and Thunder Bay are the first to restart. Other Canadian destinations starting within the next 10 days are Halifax, Quebec City, St. John’s, NL, and Moncton. U.S. destinations in Boston, Chicago, New York and Washington return on Sept. 17. Flights to other year-round destinations are set to resume as of Oct. 6, with all routes currently available for booking. The initial flight schedule can be found at www.flyporter.com.

    “Our passengers and team members have been waiting for this day to arrive,” said Michael Deluce, president and CEO, Porter Airlines. “We currently have over 900 team members who have put in countless hours to get everything ready for our return to service, with more being recalled or hired every week. Everyone at Porter is looking forward to welcoming passengers back and delivering our distinct style of service again.”

    Toronto Mayor John Tory joins the celebrations at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

    Porter has strengthened its existing standards with a focus on high levels of sanitization in order to protect the health of its passengers and team members. More information about the Healthy Flights program can be found on Porter’s website.

    In addition to Healthy Flights, Porter has also introduced a COVID-19 Vaccination Policy for its team members. To support a safe and healthy workplace and travel experience, team members must present a negative COVID-19 test administered within 72 hours of the start of their shift or be fully vaccinated. The Canadian federal government announced in August its intention to mandate vaccination for federally-regulated workers; once specific details are known, Porter’s policy may evolve.

    Bookings made before Sept. 30, will be eligible to change or cancel with no fees. Passengers also have the option to book a flight with the Full Refund Option for $40 plus taxes. The Refund Option entitles customers to receive a refund, including base fare, taxes and fees, for their booking upon advance cancellation of their flight for any reason.

    About Porter Airlines

    Porter Airlines provides a warm and effortless approach to hospitality, restoring glamour and refinement to air travel. Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®.

    The airline currently offers flights to Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Fredericton, Saint John, Moncton, Halifax, St. John’s, Thunder Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury, Timmins, Windsor, New York (Newark), Chicago (Midway), Boston and Washington (Dulles), and has seasonal flights to Mt. Tremblant, Que., Muskoka, Ont., Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Stephenville, N.L.

    Visit www.flyporter.com or follow @porterairlines on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Details of growth plans to provide North America-wide service are available at flyporter.com. 

  • PAL Airlines launches service from Ottawa Airport to Canada’s east coast

    From CTV News – link to source story

    Josh Pringle, Digital Multi-Skilled Journalist | Saturday, July 31, 2021

    Ottawa MacDonald-Cartier International Airport

    The Ottawa MacDonald-Cartier International Airport on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. (David Kawai/THE CANADIAN PRESS)

    OTTAWA — Ottawa travellers have a new option to travel to Canada’s east coast. 

    PAL Airlines launched service out of the Ottawa International Airport this week, with service to Moncton and Fredericton, New Brunswick. Flights to both cities will continue on to St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.

    PAL Airlines is a St. John’s based independent operator with roots in Canada’s east coast.

    “Including YOW in their offering recognizes the importance of Canada’s capital region and its link to the east coast,” said Mark Laroche, President and CEO of the Ottawa International Airport Authority.

    “We look forward to being a part of PAL’s extensive Atlantic Canada network and reconnecting family and friends from both regions.”

    Ottawa-Moncton-St. John’s service will operate Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. Ottawa-Fredericton-St. John’s service will operate Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

    Welcome to #YOW, PAL!

    We sent @PALairlines’ inaugural departure off with a water salute!

    We’re happy to have them on board, offering flights to @stjohnsairport @yfcairport @MonctonYQM, as we work towards the recovery of Canada’s aviation industry #FasterTogether.

    Originally tweeted by flyyow (@FlyYOW) on 30 July 2021.

    The Ottawa International Airport continues to ramp up service as the COVID-19 restrictions ease.

    In August, Air Canada will offer 20 departures per day from the Ottawa Airport.

  • Porter Airlines confirms restart of service to select Canadian destinations beginning Sept. 8

    U.S. flights start on Sept. 17

    TORONTO, July 5, 2021 /CNW/ – Porter Airlines is officially returning to the skies on Sept. 8, nearly 18 months after suspending flights due to COVID-19 public health and travel restrictions.

    The flight schedule is returning in phases, with the initial group of Canadian destinations being Halifax, Moncton, Montreal, Ottawa, Quebec City, St. John’s, NL, Thunder Bay and Toronto. U.S. destinations in Boston, Chicago, New York and Washington follow on Sept. 17.

    U.S. flights start on September 17 (CNW Group/Porter Airlines)
    U.S. flights start on September 17 (CNW Group/Porter Airlines)
    Porter Airlines confirms restart of service to select Canadian destinations beginning Sept. 8 (CNW Group/Porter Airlines)
    Porter Airlines confirms restart of service to select Canadian destinations beginning Sept. 8 (CNW Group/Porter Airlines)

    “This is the moment our team members, passengers and the communities we serve have been waiting for,” said Michael Deluce, president and CEO, Porter Airlines. “The pandemic has progressed to the point that we can now begin restoring service across our network, focused around our main base at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Being grounded for more than a year has been incredibly difficult for everyone involved. In true Porter fashion, our team members have displayed remarkable levels of commitment, engagement and optimism over this uncertain period of time, despite the vast majority being unable to work. While deciding to suspend our service was the most difficult business decision we’ve made, announcing a restart of flights is the first step in a recovery process that includes recalling hundreds of team members and welcoming back passengers. We are looking forward to once again delivering Porter’s unique style of service.”

    Approximately 500 team members will be recalled to active status as the first phase of flights are introduced. More staff will be added in subsequent months as flights and destinations return to the schedule.

    The initial flight schedule is as follows:

    Canadian Routes*Peak daily roundtripsService start date
    Ottawa – Toronto6 flightsSept. 8
    Montreal – Toronto6 flightsSept. 8
    Thunder Bay – Toronto3 flightsSept. 8
    Ottawa – Halifax2 flightsSept. 13
    Montreal – Halifax1 flightSept. 13
    Quebec City – Toronto1 flightSept. 13
    Halifax – St. John’s1 flightSept. 17
    Moncton – Ottawa1 flightSept. 17
    U.S. Routes*
    New York (Newark) – Toronto6 fightsSept. 17
    Boston – Toronto3 flightsSept. 17
    Chicago (Midway) – Toronto2 flightsSept. 17
    Washington (Dulles) – Toronto1 flightSept. 17
    * All Toronto routes operate at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Schedules vary by day of week.

    Flights to other year-round destinations normally operated by Porter are currently available for booking and set to resume as of Oct. 6. Service is returning based on anticipated passenger demand, with frequency and markets increasing over time.

    To provide flexibility and give travellers peace of mind when purchasing for future travel, Porter is making all fares purchased by July 20, for travel through December 15, 2021, fully refundable, with no fees. This also applies to Porter Escapes vacation packages.

    In preparation for its resumption of service, Porter is introducing a comprehensive program to protect the health of its passengers and team members. Healthy Flights strengthens existing standards focusing on high levels of sanitization.

    “Our safety team developed Healthy Flights as more than a checklist of rules and procedures,” said Deluce. “They carefully considered how to provide a safe experience for our passengers and team members, while being true to our distinct brand and approach to service.”

    Detailed information about Healthy Flights is available online.

    About Porter Airlines
    Porter Airlines has revolutionized short-haul flying with a warm and effortless approach to hospitality, restoring glamour and refinement to air travel. Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline®in the World Airline Star Rating®.

    The airline currently offers flights to Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Fredericton, Saint John, Moncton, Halifax, St. John’s, Thunder Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury, Timmins, Windsor, New York (Newark), Chicago (Midway), Boston and Washington (Dulles), and has seasonal flights to Mt. Tremblant, Que., Muskoka, Ont., Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Stephenville, N.L. Visit www.flyporter.com or follow @porterairlines on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

  • Government of Canada providing financial support to the Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport to help maintain essential airport operations

    Transport Canada

    OTTAWA, ON, July 2, 2021 /CNW/ – The global COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on the air sector in Canada. Airports have experienced major decreases in traffic over the past 15 months, resulting in significant loss of income. Despite these challenges, airports have continued to play a crucial role by providing essential air services for regional communities by ensuring they maintain their connection with the rest of Canada.

    Today, the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, and the President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, announced that the Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport will receive over $1.8 million from Transport Canada’s Airport Relief Fund to help the airport recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and to support continued essential air services for residents and workers in Moncton and its surrounding communities.  

    In addition, the Minister highlighted that the Government of Canada is also providing the airport with just over $5 million from Transport Canada’s Airports Capital Assistance Program for the purchase of an aircraft rescue firefighting vehicle, the rehabilitation of Runway 11-23, and the replacement of taxiway signs.

    The Government of Canada is committed to supporting Canadians and ensuring they continue to have affordable and efficient air transportation options for years to come. As we move forward with the safe, gradual return of activity in the aviation sector, both in Canada and internationally, it is imperative that we continue to ensure a vibrant and competitive Canadian air sector.

    Quotes

    “Our airports are major contributors to Canada’s economy, and play a crucial role in sustaining the social and economic well-being of our communities. This financial support will ensure that, as Canada works towards recovery and travel restart post pandemic, the Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport will be able to provide regional accessibility, and safe, reliable and efficient air services for residents and workers in Moncton and its surrounding communities.”

    The Honourable Omar Alghabra
    Minister of Transport

    “The Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport is a key transportation hub not just for the Greater Moncton Area, but for much of New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. It connects us with relatives, helps us discover new destinations, and is a pivotal trade corridor for many Maritime exporters of seafood and other commodities. As New Brunswick is once again welcoming tourists from all over Canada, this funding will be an important part of ensuring the Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport can fully participate in the post-pandemic economic recovery.”  

    The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc
    President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs

    Quick Facts

    • On May 11, 2021, the Government of Canada launched the Airport Relief Fund which will provide $64.8 million for airports whose 2019 revenues were less than $250 million.
    • The amount of funding to each eligible recipient was calculated using a tiered formula-based approach, based on 2019 revenues.
    • Funding provided from the Airport Relief Fund must be used to cover activities that are directly related to the airport’s operations to ensure that the airport remains open to travellers and surrounding communities.
    • The Airports Capital Assistance Program is an existing contribution funding program which provides financial assistance to regional airports for safety-related capital infrastructure projects and equipment to ensure the continued safe operation of the airports for passengers, air crews and airport employees.
    • On May 11, 2021, the Minister announced that Transport Canada’s Airports Capital Assistance Program was receiving a funding top-up of $186 million over two years and expanding its eligibility to larger airports like the Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport.

    Related Products

    Associated Link

    Transport Canada is online at www.tc.gc.ca. Subscribe to e-news or stay connected through Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram to keep up to date on the latest from Transport Canada.

  • WestJet reconnecting Atlantic Canada routes

    Airline to restart seven routes across Atlantic Canada by July 2

    New non-stop service between Calgary-Charlottetown to launch on July 29

    CALGARY, AB, June 25, 2021 /CNW/ -WestJet is further restoring Atlantic Canada’s domestic and interprovincial connectivity with the restart of seven routes to and from destinations across Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador. The airline today also announced it will launch its new non-stop service to Charlottetown from Calgary on July 29. Full schedule details and resumption dates are outlined below.

    “We continue to work towards the restoration of our pre-COVID domestic network to ensure that when our guests are ready to travel, we are there for them,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Chief Commercial Officer. “WestJet remains committed to building back stronger for the betterment of all Canadians and as we look ahead to reconnecting friends, family and loved ones, the safe restart of travel is essential to Canada’s economic recovery.”

    Connecting Prince Edward Island to Alberta non-stop

    After being delayed due to the pandemic, WestJet will bridge new domestic connections between the east and the west with the introduction of new twice-weekly non-stop service between Charlottetown, P.E.I., and Calgary beginning July 29. The service connecting the two provinces was previously scheduled to start in June 2020.

    WestJet’s investments are critical to ensuring Atlantic Canada’s recovery from the COVID-19 crisis and by the end of June, the airline is set to restore commercial air service to Sydney, N.S., Deer Lake and Gander, Nfld., with the restart of flights from Halifax and Toronto.

    “As WestJet leads the restart of travel across the Atlantic region, it is critical that we get clarity and guidance on travel policies from the federal government. The safe return of visitors to and from the region is key to recovery and we thank the Atlantic Premiers and their governments for the work they have done to prioritize the safe restart of travel. WestJet remains committed to affordably connecting Atlantic Canada to the rest of the country and the world,” said Angela Avery, WestJet Executive Vice-President.

    This July, WestJet will offer non-stop service to Atlantic Canada from Halifax to six cities, from St. John’s to three cities, from Charlottetown to two cities and from Moncton, Fredericton, Deer Lake, Gander and Sydney to one city.

    Love Where You’re Going Again – WestJet’s Latest Video

    For more than 17 months, Canadians from coast-to-coast have been separated from the people and places they love. WestJet’s latest brand moment is a reminder to Canadians that it’s time to love where they’re going, again.

    Atlantic Canada route restarts

    Route Peak FrequencyRoute restart date
    Charlottetown – Toronto  4x weeklyJune 25, 2021 
    Fredericton – Toronto 1x dailyJune 26, 2021 
    Deer Lake – Toronto 4x weeklyJune 27, 2021 
    Halifax – Sydney 1x dailyJune 28, 2021 
    Gander – Halifax 3x weeklyJune 30, 2021 
    Moncton – Toronto 1x dailyJuly 1, 2021 
    Halifax – Edmonton2x weeklyJuly 2, 2021
    Charlottetown – Calgary *2x weeklyJuly 29, 2021
    *New Route

    About WestJet 

    In 25 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.

  • Air Transat unveils its winter 2021-22 program

    Nearly 50 destinations on three continents will be offered, including two new ones: Miami and Fort Myers

    MONTREAL, June 16, 2021 /CNW/ – Air Transat is proud to present its winter 2021-22 flight program. Starting November 1, it will offer flights to nearly 50 destinations throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America, the United States and Europe.

    This program also features two new destinations in Florida—Miami and Fort Myers, with direct flights from Montreal—in addition to flights already scheduled for Fort Lauderdale and Orlando.

    “We know that our clients are eager to travel, whether it’s to visit loved ones or for a change of scenery,” says Annick Guérard, President and CEO of Transat. “And we are sure to meet this strong, pent-up demand with the rich variety of destinations we are offering this winter. Plus, by adding Miami and Fort Myers to our program, we are consolidating our position in the United States, a popular sun destination for Canadian travellers.”

    Starting December 2021, Air Transat will fly to Miami four times a week, and to Fort Myers twice a week.

    Flights to three continents this winter

    To quench Canadians’ wanderlust, direct flights will be offered from eight Canadian cities: Montreal, Quebec City, Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, London, Halifax and Moncton.

    In addition to flights to the South, Air Transat will also offer vacationers a selection of South packages, featuring 290 properties and four collections: Luxury, Out of Office, Family and Solo.

    From Montreal, Air Transat will operate direct flights to Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Martinique, Panama, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, El Salvador and the United States.

    Travellers from Toronto will be able to fly direct to Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, St. Maarten and the United States.

    From Quebec City, seven sunny destinations will be accessible by direct flight to Cuba, the United States, Mexico and the Dominican Republic.

    And lastly, to allow Canadians to travel across their country and to increase connecting opportunities to international destinations, Air Transat will also operate domestic flights between Montreal, Quebec City, Toronto and Vancouver.

    As for Europe, Air Transat will gradually offer direct flights from Montreal to France, Portugal, Spain and Italy. There will also be direct flights from Toronto to the United Kingdom, Portugal, the Netherlands, Ireland and Italy, and from Quebec City to France.

    It is important to note that, should the situation change and force the company to alter its flight schedule, clients affected by cancellations would be eligible for a refund.

    For travel inspiration and details on routes offered, travellers are invited to visit the dedicated page on the Air Transat website.

    About Air Transat

    Air Transat is Canada’s number one leisure airline. It flies to some 60 international destinations in more than 25 countries in the Americas and Europe, offers domestic and connecting flights within Canada, and carries some 5 million passengers every year. Air Transat is a business unit of Transat A.T. Inc., a leading integrated international tourism company specializing in holiday travel and offering vacation packages, hotel stays and air travel. Transat was awarded Travelife certification in 2018 in recognition of its commitment to sustainable development. Its head office is located in Montreal.

    Recent distinctions and awards

    • World’s Best Leisure Airline at the Skytrax World Airline Awards
    • Ranked 2nd Travel and Leisure Company and 57th overall on Forbes World’s Best Employers List
    • Best Tour Operator and Favourite Overall Supplier at the Agents’ Choice Awards presented by Baxter Travel Media