Tag: Penticton YYF

WestJet expands global connectivity through Toronto and Halifax with six new international summer destinations

Airline announces first non-stop gateway to South America from Toronto Pearson International Airport

TORONTO, Nov. 18, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced the first chapter in its summer 2026 network schedule, revealing five new seasonal international destinations from Toronto, three new transatlantic destinations from Halifax as well as new domestic and Nordic connections from Western Canada. Headlining the historic schedule announcement is WestJet’s first South American non-stop connection from Toronto: Medellín, Colombia.

WestJet expands global connectivity through Toronto and Halifax with six new international summer destinations (CNW Group/WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership)

“Leveraging the extended range capability of our growing share of Boeing 737-8 Max aircraft, WestJet is pleased to deliver a suite of new global destinations that are uniquely suited to our leisure strategy in Eastern Canada. The MAX can connect Eastern Canada to rich cultural destinations that guests want to travel to, and we are proud to be the airline that takes them there,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Chief Executive Officer. “Toronto Pearson International airport serves as a natural connector for international travel, and we look forward to the two-way travel opportunities that will come from one of WestJet’s biggest investments in the region.”

WestJet fills untapped new markets in Toronto Pearson

Between Toronto’s appeal and WestJet’s growing fleet of MAX aircraft, the airline is well equipped to connect Canada’s largest and most diverse city to three new corners of the world: Medellín, Colombia (MDE); Cardiff, United Kingdom (CWL) and the Azores archipelago (Ponta Delgada, Portugal (PDL)). WestJet is also returning service between Toronto and Glasgow, Scotland (GLA). Routes have been thoughtfully chosen to create meaningful connections to underserved markets that are rich in culture, community and opportunity.

Route	Frequency	Starting date
Toronto-Medellín*	4x weekly	April 28, 2026
Toronto-Cardiff	4x weekly	May 22, 2026
Toronto-Ponta Delgada*	4x weekly	June 12, 2026
Toronto-Glasgow***	4x weekly	May 15, 2026

*Subject to government approval
***Previously served in 2022

WestJet strengthens Halifax’s role as Canada’s Atlantic gateway

WestJet is fortifying its position in Nova Scotia through the addition of four summer seasonal routes from the award-winning Halifax Stanfield International Airport. Playing an important role in WestJet’s vision for balanced and sustainable growth, non-stop seasonal connectivity from Halifax to Madrid, Spain (MAD); Lisbon, Portugal (LIS); Copenhagen, Denmark (CPH); and Detroit, Michigan (DTW) will add to WestJet’s robust offering from the East Coast.

“With shorter flight durations, competitive pricing and seamless access to key European destinations and cultural hubs, WestJet is proud to call Halifax the airline’s Atlantic gateway to Europe,” continues von Hoensbroech. “These seasonal additions mark the most European destinations we have flown from Halifax.”

Route	Frequency	Starting date
Halifax-Madrid	4x weekly	May 15, 2026
Halifax-Lisbon*	4x weekly	May 1, 2026
Halifax-Copenhagen	4x weekly	May 28, 2026
Halifax-Detroit	7x weekly	May 18, 2026

*Subject to government approval

Non-stop service to Keflavík opens new doors for Edmonton and Winnipeg

As some of the first destinations on WestJet’s map, Edmonton and Winnipeg continue to be at the heart of the airline’s story. Earlier today, WestJet announced it will be connecting Edmonton and Winnipeg to Reykjavik (Keflavík), Iceland. The non-stop routes reinforce WestJet’s commitment to maintaining strong global connections for Canadians, while focusing on smart and sustainable growth.

Route	Frequency	Starting date
Edmonton-Reykjavik (Keflavík)	1x weekly	June 26, 2026
Winnipeg- Reykjavik (Keflavík)	1x weekly	June 27, 2026

Western Canadians will also see the introduction of two new domestic routes. This summer, WestJet will operate three times weekly service between Winnipeg and London, Ontario. Further west, the airline is pleased to welcome service between Vancouver and Penticton, B.C. five days a week onboard WestJet Encore’s De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft.

Route	Frequency	Starting date
Winnipeg-London (ON)	3x weekly	May 17, 2026
Vancouver-Penticton	5x weekly	May 15, 2026

WestJet and Sunwing vacations take-off from five major Canadian cities

As part of WestJet’s summer 2026 schedule, the airline is extending key sun destination routes to operate year-round from Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, Calgary and Winnipeg. Building on the success of its seasonal offerings, both WestJet Vacations and Sunwing Vacations will offer attractive holiday packages to deliver seamless and affordable vacation experiences throughout the year. Year-round vacation packages are available at Sunwing.ca, WestJetvacations.com or Vacanceswestjetquebec.com.

Route	Summer frequency
Toronto-Puerto Plata	1x weekly
Montreal-Puerto Plata	1x weekly
Montreal-Samana	1x weekly
Quebec City-Cayo Coco	1x weekly
Winnipeg-Cancun	1x weekly
Calgary-Mazatlán*	1x weekly
Calgary-Guadalajara*	1x weekly

*WestJet flights only

The remaining schedule for the summer 2026 travel season will be announced early next year. For more information regarding the routes announced today, visit WestJet.com.

Additional Quotes

“We’re thrilled to see WestJet expanding its international network from Toronto Pearson, including its first non-stop service to South America and the launch of North America’s only direct flight to Wales. These new routes further strengthen Pearson’s role as Canada’s global gateway, providing travellers with more options to connect to destinations across the United Kingdom, Europe, the Caribbean, and South America.” –Kurush Minocher, Interim Chief Commercial Officer, Toronto Pearson

“The Ontario Government is thrilled with WestJet’s expanded 2026 summer schedule, introducing new international gateways from Toronto and strengthening connections across Canada and beyond. This increase in service strengthens Ontario’s position as a global travel hub, increasing accessibility for international travellers to explore our vibrant province, celebrate our close cultural connections and enjoy our world-class travel experiences.” – Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming

“We’re proud to welcome WestJet’s new direct service between Toronto and Cardiff for summer 2026. This exciting route marks a major step forward in expanding Wales’ global connectivity, strengthening tourism, business and cultural links with Canada and showcasing everything our nation has to offer on the international stage. We look forward to working closely with WestJet to make the service a great success and to giving Canadian visitors a truly warm Welsh welcome when they arrive at Cardiff Airport.” – Jon Bridge, Chief Executive Officer, Cardiff Airport

“This milestone underscores the importance of our region and the trust that international airlines are placing in Medellín as a key gateway to Colombia. With the arrival of WestJet, we continue strengthening our airport’s connectivity and our commitment to generating opportunities for tourism, business, and cultural exchange between both countries.” – Sara Ramírez Restrepo, General Manager of Airplan (Airport operator)

“We are very pleased because this new route continues to position Medellín as one of the most dynamic cities in Colombian tourism, recognized for its modern infrastructure, privileged climate, and ability to attract international visitors interested in culture, innovation, entertainment, and sustainability. It also strengthens our commitment to consolidating the city as the leading meetings destination in the region.” – Juliana Cardona Quirós, Executive Director of the Medellín and Antioquia Bureau

“We are thrilled to welcome WestJet back to Glasgow Airport with its direct Toronto service. Glasgow Airport has a close affinity with WestJet, due to the fact it was the first UK airport the airline ever operated from when it first touched down back in 2015.

The airline’s decision to re-establish this route highlights its confidence in the Glasgow market and demonstrates the strong demand that clearly exists from both leisure and business passengers for transatlantic connectivity. It also underlines our commitment to delivering key routes and services for our passengers and with Glasgow playing host to the Commonwealth Games next year, the timing of this announcement couldn’t be better.” – Matt Hazlewood, Chief Commercial Officer at AGS Airports

“The launch of this new direct route between Toronto and Ponta Delgada marks an important milestone for the Azores as a destination. WestJet’s commitment reflects a growing confidence in our potential and strengthens the archipelago’s connectivity with the North American market. We are confident that this service will boost the local economy, expand opportunities for sustainable tourism, and offer Canadian visitors an authentic and unforgettable experience in the heart of the Atlantic.

“Canada as an important market and welcomed Westjet first operation to Portugal, Toronto to Ponta Delgada and Halifax to Lisbon, expressing that the routes are well aligned with the strategy to expand connectivity and drive tourism growth, having tourists throughout the territory, all year round.” – Carlos Abade, Turismo de Portugal President

“Canada has long been a key inbound market for Scottish tourism, with strong family ties driving repeat visits and enabling travellers to spend time with loved ones. We’re also seeing growing interest from visitors without personal connections -those drawn to Scotland for its outdoor adventures, rich cultural heritage, and the chance to engage with local communities and experience authentic Scottish hospitality.

We look forward to continuing our partnership with WestJet and inspiring even more visits across Scotland.” – Denise Hill, VisitScotland’s Head of Business Development and Intermediary Marketing

“Destination Canada congratulates WestJet on expanding connections to Europe and South America. These new routes enhance access to Eastern and Atlantic Canada, strengthening Canada’s global competitiveness and fueling our visitor economy–creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and enriching communities from coast to coast to coast. Tourism, trade and travel are interdependent. These added routes strengthen Canada’s links with priority markets and support tangible economic activity at home.” – Marsha Walden, President and CEO of Destination Canada.

“This is welcome news for passengers, businesses and our tourism industries, both in Wales and Canada. With good connections to other Canadian cities, the new Toronto route will open up new economic opportunities for Wales in North America.

“We have around 35 Canadian companies in Wales, employing around 6,500 people, while Canada is an export market worth over £300m a year. Ahead of our Wales Investment Summit on 1st December, this is a positive example of how we are opening up international opportunities for people and businesses in Wales.” – First Minister Eluned Morgan

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 the 2025 integration of Sunwing, WestJet now has more than 14,000 WestJetters to 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, WestJet Vacations, Vacances WestJet Quebec and Sunwing Vacations, 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.

18 November 2025

WestJet announces largest network expansion from Edmonton in airline’s history with launch of new U.S. routes and enhanced domestic connectivity

New transborder routes connecting Edmonton with Minneapolis and Seattle along with increased access across Canada underpins continued expansion of Alberta’s global aviation network

EDMONTON, AB, Feb. 13, 2023 /CNW/ – WestJet today revealed significantly increased transborder connectivity from Edmonton International Airport, with new non-stop service to Minneapolis, Minnesota and Seattle, Washington as part of its 2023 summer schedule. In addition, WestJet’s summer schedule from Edmonton will revitalize the city’s domestic connectivity from coast-to-coast with the airline unveiling new routes from Edmonton to London, Moncton, Charlottetown and the resumption of nonstop flights to Ottawa, Montreal, Nanaimo and Penticton.

WestJet’s renewed commitment to the city of Edmonton will see the airline’s service increase by almost 50 per cent this summer when compared to 2022. Additionally, today’s announcement underpins WestJet’s strategic ambitions to grow its presence across Western Canada and further strengthens Canada’s east to west connectivity.

“Since our first day of operation in February 1996 to reaffirming our commitment to the city and region almost exactly 27 years later, Edmonton is an integral part of WestJet’s beginnings and our future,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group Chief Executive Officer. “As WestJet continues to own our position as the undisputed home-team carrier of Western Canada, I am grateful to be celebrating our renewed focus on Edmonton alongside our valued partners as we take strides to energize the city’s two-way tourism opportunities and bolster its accessibility for business and leisure travellers.”

In celebration of its new Edmonton-based investments which mark the single largest expansion of WestJet’s network serving Edmonton in history, the airline, in partnership with Edmonton International Airport, was joined by valued partners from across the region at a special event held in the heart of the city’s vibrant downtown ICE District.

“WestJet continues to invest in our region by creating important non-stop routes to critical destinations that foster business development and propel the visitor economy,” said Myron Keehn, President & CEO, Edmonton International Airport (YEG). “The more flights we have at YEG, the more opportunities we can offer Edmonton, our region, and Canada’s North, and we’re thrilled to welcome even more WestJet flights to our airport and showcase the Edmonton Region as an attractive hub for tech, sustainability, trade and tourism.”

Rounding out Alberta’s growing and thriving aviation hub

WestJet’s summer schedule serving Alberta builds on the airline’s foundational support of the province that will allow for its leisure, cargo and business economies to thrive like never before. With five new additions and the restart of four destinations to Edmonton’s network, WestJet will serve 21 domestic and four transborder destinations from Alberta’s capital this summer.

Details of WestJet’s new summer service from Edmonton

Destination	Start Date	Peak Season Frequency	Departure Time	Arrival Time
Minneapolis (MSP) *New	June 2	5x weekly	08:15	11:46
Seattle (SEA) *New	May 19	5x weekly	10:30	11:30
Charlottetown (YYG) *New	June 14	1x weekly	10:25	17:58
Moncton (YQM) *New	June 29	2x weekly	10:25	17:57
Penticton (YYF)¹	July 1	2x weekly	11:00	11:27
Nanaimo (YCD) ¹*Year-Round	Year- round	2x weekly	10:30	11:29
London (YXU) *New	May 19	2x weekly	10:25	15:52
Ottawa (YOW) ¹	April 30	6x weekly	09:00	14:43
Montreal¹	June 30	2x weekly	01:00	07:03

¹ Resumption of service last operated in 2021

Additional quotes:

“Air travel is critical to our regional economy. Direct routes to strategic business locations make our region more globally competitive. They attract investment and human capital and they connect our local companies to the global marketplace. Half of all cargo moves in the bellies of passenger planes – the increase in direct flights and the new connection to Minneapolis is a big boost for our local businesses. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these flights will have on our region.”

– Malcom Bruce, Edmonton Global, Chief Executive Officer

“These new connections serve as an important tool for further positioning Edmonton as an international hub for trade and travel in Western Canada. New routes to the US will further open up economic expansion opportunities for businesses in the Edmonton region while also bringing in visitors to explore everything our great capital city region has to offer. Thank you to the teams at the Edmonton International Airport and WestJet for making today’s announcement possible.”

– The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance, and Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre

“With these new flight commitments from West Jet, the future of tourism is looking even brighter. Seeing more visitors enjoying all that Alberta has to offer is something our government is excited about. Our Festivals, Parks and Mountains are second to none and we look forward to sharing them with the world.”

– The Honourable Todd Loewen, Ministry of Forestry, Parks and Tourism

“With the recent announcement of WestJet increasing their services both to the United States and from coast to coast in Canada, I am pleased for the positive outcomes to the Edmonton region that are sure to follow. As Edmonton’s population continues to grow, Edmontonians’ desire to travel and feel connected does too. This is a much welcomed investment that will spark economic growth and vibrancy in the Edmonton region, and I look forward to my next transborder and domestic flights with WestJet from the Edmonton International Airport.”

– Edmonton Mayor, Amarjeet Sohi

“On behalf of Leduc County, I’d like to congratulate WestJet on its exciting network expansion. The success of the airport is directly tied to the success of the region, and the more direct flights EIA has – especially to key connecting hubs in the United States – the easier it will be to connect with businesses on a global scale, which will in turn drive business development and diversification.”

– Leduc County Mayor, Tanni Doblanko

About WestJet

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 110 destinations in 24 countries.

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

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

13 February 2023

WestJet brings new U.S. destinations and enhanced domestic connectivity to summer schedule as airline’s new growth strategy takes flight

CALGARY, AB, Feb. 13, 2023 /CNW/ – WestJet today unveiled 20 new routes and three new destinations to the airline’s summer schedule. Offering a comprehensive network of connectivity between Western Canada and the United States, WestJet’s summer network additions feature new non-stop service to Washington Dulles, Detroit and Minneapolis, with new routes added to Atlanta, Austin, Chicago, Nashville and Seattle. In line with the airline’s previously announced strategic direction, WestJet is also expanding domestic travel options across Canada with increased frequencies and options to travel from coast-to-coast, and everywhere in between.

“We are thrilled to be expanding our network and giving our guests substantial opportunity to explore the U.S., and Canada from coast-to-coast this summer,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group Chief Executive Officer. “From increased domestic options to expanded regional and transborder connectivity throughout Western Canada, our summer schedule demonstrates our unwavering commitment to fulfilling the diverse needs of Canadian travellers and ensuring we are the friendly, reliable and affordable airline they love.”

With strengthened domestic and transborder connectivity, WestJet will increase its service up to nearly 30 per cent in Calgary, 50 percent in Edmonton and 10 per cent in Vancouver when compared to 2022.

Expanded U.S. network with more routes and increased access to Delta hubs

This summer WestJet will introduce Minneapolis, Detroit and Washington D.C. (Dulles), to its network, in addition to investing in new routes and restoring service to an expansive list of U.S. destinations.

Through its longstanding partnership with Delta Air Lines, guests connecting through Minneapolis and Detroit will gain access to two more of the U.S. airline’s major hubs. Building on WestJet’s current service to Delta hubs, including Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle, WestJet guests will now have access to over 150 U.S. destinations 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 any time they fly with either carrier, including earning and redeeming in their preferred program.

Highlights of WestJet’s summer 2023 transborder and international service

Destination	Start Date	Peak Season Frequency	Departure Time	Arrival Time
Calgary – Austin*	May 18	2x weekly	09:40	14:30
Calgary – Chicago*	May 18	4x weekly	12:15	16:40
Calgary – Detroit¹	May 26	5x weekly	12:35	18:05
Calgary – Washington D.C. (Dulles)	June 2	3x weekly	09:45	16:02
Edmonton – Minneapolis¹	June 2	5x weekly	08:15	11:46
Edmonton – Seattle¹	May 19	5x weekly	10:30	11:30
Vancouver – Atlanta¹	May 17	4x weekly	22:25	06:05
Vancouver – Nashville	May 19	2x weekly	10:00	16:19
Vancouver – Orlando*	May 6	1x weekly	11:00	19:52
Winnipeg – Los Angeles³	Apr 30	3x weekly	07:00	08:38
Toronto – Bermuda³	May 5	2x weekly	07:00	10:42

*Resumption of service/ ¹ Delta hub/ ³Continuation of winter service

Enhancing non-stop west to east connectivity

As part of WestJet’s new strategic direction, the airline is taking strides to further provide guests with extensive opportunities to seamlessly and affordably travel across Canada. Substantially strengthening Canadian connectivity, WestJet is adding five new routes between Eastern and Western Canada, further positioning its network to support travel demands across the country.

Destination	Start Date	Peak Season Frequency	Departure Time	Arrival Time
Calgary – Moncton	June 14	3x weekly	09:15	16:49
Calgary – Thunder Bay*	June 29	3x weekly	14:00/15:45	18:36/20:21
Calgary – Quebec City*	May 19	4x weekly	17:55	23:55
Edmonton – Charlottetown	June 14	1x weekly	10:25	17:58
Edmonton – London	May 19	2x weekly	10:25	15:52
Edmonton – Moncton	June 29	2x weekly	10:25	17:57
Edmonton – Ottawa*	Apr 30	6x weekly	09:00	14:43
Edmonton – Montreal*	June 30	2x weekly	01:00	07:03

*Resumption of service

Bringing Western Canadian communities closer through a strengthened regional network

As Western Canada’s undisputed home-team carrier, WestJet is enhancing its aviation gateway for business and leisure travel opportunities by further strengthening regional connectivity with the resumption of non-stop flights and increased frequencies.

Destination	Start Date	Peak Season Frequency	Departure Time	Arrival Time
Calgary – Terrace*	May 1	4x weekly	09:40/14:10	10:58/15:28
Edmonton – Nanaimo*	April 30	2x weekly	10:30	11:29
Edmonton – Penticton*	July 1	2x weekly	11:00	11:27
Kelowna – Regina*	May 21	2x weekly	17:30	20:34
Kelowna – Saskatoon*	June 2	2x weekly	17:35	20:29
Kelowna – Winnipeg*	June 2	3x weekly	19:15	23:33
Vancouver – Regina*	Jun 30	2x weekly	20:45	23:47
Winnipeg – Victoria*	April 30	2x weekly	17:30	18:28

*Resumption of service

Additional quotes

“Delta is excited about WestJet’s expanded US-Canada network in summer 2023,” said Perry Cantarutti, senior vice president Alliances and International for Delta. “We already have a strong codeshare network with WestJet, and extensive reciprocal benefits for our frequent flyers. With both increased flights to Delta’s hubs in Atlanta and Seattle, as well as new WestJet flights to our hubs in Minneapolis/St. Paul and Detroit, we look forward to growing our partnership, offering new travel and connection options to more customers, and increasing competition.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome WestJet to Minnesota and are pleased to add an important business route to Edmonton from MSP,” said Brian Ryks, CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which owns and operates MSP. “WestJet’s arrival also opens up new connections for travelers across Western Canada and the United States leveraging their codeshare with Delta Air Lines, MSP’s largest carrier.”

“We are pleased to have WestJet begin operations at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. With the addition of WestJet, our customers will be able to fly directly from Detroit to Calgary for the first time since 2005. We’re hoping this route will also give our Canadian neighbors one more reason to visit our great region, “said Chad Newton, Wayne County Airport Authority CEO.

“Dulles International Airport welcomes WestJet to the Washington, D.C., region with this first-ever service to Calgary,” said Chryssa Westerlund, Airports Authority executive vice president and chief revenue officer. “Calgary will become the 60th international destination from Washington Dulles, and WestJet will be our 40th air carrier. We are thrilled to welcome WestJet to Dulles and to provide customers this new link between Western Canada and Washington.”

About WestJet

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

13 February 2023

WestJet enhances intra-B.C. connectivity with new service between Penticton and Vancouver

CALGARY, AB, Aug. 8, 2022 /CNW/ – WestJet today is welcoming the airline’s newest regional route with the announcement of service between Penticton, B.C., and Vancouver beginning in February of 2023. The route will strengthen critical intra-provincial connectivity for British Columbians and local businesses and is scheduled to operate six-times weekly on WestJet Link.

“The addition of new intra-provincial routes is critical as we invest in our presence in the West and look to strengthen our offerings to ensure British Columbians have more access to convenient and affordable air travel,” said Jared Mikoch-Gerke, WestJet Director of Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs. “This new route marks the initial steps in our renewed committment to B.C., and will open up connections and opportunities for local businesses and residents as they recover from the difficult past few years.”

“This new service will not only connect British Columbians and all Canadians who will use this route, but will also create good local jobs and help grow our economy,” said The Honourable Omar Alghabra, Minister of Transport. “Our government operates the Penticton Airport to provide safe and reliable service for the Okanagan communities and today’s announcement will do just that.”

The new service will stimulate business and leisure travel between the cities with flights on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays and makes WestJet the only airline serving both Calgary and Vancouver direct from Penticton. Through the airline’s capacity purchase agreement with Pacific Coastal Airline, all flights will be operated by WestJet Link, using a fleet of WestJet-branded 34-seat Saab 340 aircraft.

“The expansion of WestJet service is another example of the growth that Penticton is experiencing,” said Mayor John Vassilaki. “As more and more people recognize the advantages of living and working here, the addition of more direct flights to Vancouver will benefit everyone – from tourists to businesspeople. I’m pleased WestJet sees the potential for growth and look forward to the partnership between the airline and the airport being a strong factor in our economic development.”

The expansion of service is the 11th destination within the WestJet Link network and will connect more guests in smaller communities to WestJet’s global network.

Route	Start Date	Frequency	Operated by	Departure	Arrival
Vancouver – Penticton*	Beginning February 17, 2023	6x Weekly (excluding Saturday)	WestJet Link	12:45 p.m.	1:35 p.m.
Penticton – Vancouver*	Beginning February 17, 2023	6x Weekly (excluding Saturday)	WestJet Link	2:05 p.m.	2:55 p.m.

*new route

Additional Quotes

“We are excited to see WestJet Link’s service continue to grow throughout the province and provide service to the southern Okanagan Valley. As the proud operators of WestJet Link, the expansion of this service is essential in providing additional connections for local businesses and British Columbians.”

– Quentin Smith, Pacific Coastal Airlines President.

“This is great news for the entire Southern Okanagan region. Not only does this open up easier access to people traveling from the lower mainland to enjoy the bounty of the Southern Okanagan, but it also adds greater flexibility for those who travel to Vancouver for business and pleasure.”

– Jonathan McGraw, President of the Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce.

“We are thrilled that WestJet is providing new opportunities for British Columbians to explore our beautiful province with the addition of this new exciting route,” said Walt Judas, CEO of TIABC. “The addition of YVR to YYF is a further enhancement to both leisure and business travel across our province and brings an exciting avenue for tourists from WestJet’s global network to connect to the beautiful Okanagan region from Vancouver.”

– Walt Judas, CEO, TIABC

“We are very pleased for Penticton and area residents with this new service announcement from WestJet and partner, Pacific Coastal Airlines. Their new service announcement regarding Penticton to Vancouver, six-times weekly starting February 2023 continues to strengthen the relationship between WestJet and Penticton Airport along with the residents of the South Okanagan/Similkameen and its business community. We welcome the expanded service and look forward to the convenience this service brings.”

– MLA Dan Ashton, Penticton

“Connecting more people with more regions of BC through convenient and affordable air travel options is critical. This new service between Vancouver International Airport and Penticton will connect more British Columbians and visitors with the tremendous offerings of BC’s Southern Interior region. We applaud WestJet for strengthening their commitment to British Columbia—expanding air travel options in the province, in partnership with WestJet Link service operator Pacific Coastal Airlines”

– Mike McNaney, Vice President and Chief External Relations Officer, Vancouver International Airport

About WestJet 

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 westjet.com. 

8 August 2022

WestJet brings back the heat this Winter

Airline to return 17 sun and leisure routes suspended during pandemic to destinations across the Caribbean, Mexico and U.S.

CALGARY, AB, Aug. 8, 2022 /CNW/ – WestJet today celebrated the return of 17 sun routes to its network this winter. The returning routes which were suspended for more than two years, bring enhanced connectivity and vacation options for Canadians and communities across the airline’s network.

“The restart of these routes is another positive step in the restoration our network as we solidify WestJet as the reliable, friendly and affordable airline we are known to be,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “We recognize the past three winters have been disruptive to our guests travel plans and we look forward to reconnecting Canadians to some of the warmer destinations they have missed the most.”

The airline today also announced new six-times weekly regional service between Penticton, B.C., and Vancouver beginning on February 17, 2023 on WestJet Link along with the restart of domestic connectivity between Edmonton and Nanaimo, B.C.

Highlights from WestJet’s winter schedule release:

Sun and Leisure, Transborder and Transatlantic:

Restart of 17 sun and leisure routes suspended since 2019
45 per cent increase to sun and leisure flights from winter 2021
60 per cent increase in transborder flights from winter 2021
25 per cent increase in transatlantic flights from winter 2021

WestJet’s investments in sun, transborder and leisure flying are growing across the country with:

A 50% increase in flights from Central/Eastern Canada from winter 2021
A 55% increase in flights from Western Canada from winter 2021

Network-wide:

65 per cent increase in flights to/from Winnipeg (YWG) from winter 2021
50 per cent increase in flights to/from Edmonton (YEG) from winter 2021
35 per cent increase in flights to/from Vancouver (YVR) from winter 2021
30 per cent increase in flights to/from Calgary (YYC) from winter 2021
10 per cent increase in flights to/from Toronto (YYZ) from winter 2021

Domestic:

New domestic connection between Vancouver and Penticton, B.C., on WestJet Link
Restart of Edmonton-Nanaimo route suspended since 2019
25 per cent overall increase in flights network-wide domestically from winter 2021

Transborder Restarts:

Route	Restart Date	Peak Frequency	Operated By
Kelowna – Phoenix	November 16, 2022	1x Weekly	WestJet
Saskatoon – Las Vegas	November 10, 2022	2x Weekly	WestJet
Saskatoon – Orlando*	December 16, 2022	1x Weekly	WestJet
Regina – Las Vegas	November 10, 2022	2x Weekly	WestJet
Regina – Orlando	December 16, 2022	1x Weekly	WestJet
Vancouver – Orlando	November 12, 2022	1x Weekly	WestJet
Winnipeg – Phoenix	October 31, 2022	2x Weekly	WestJet
St. John’s – Tampa Bay	March 19, 2023	1x Weekly	WestJet

*Operated on very limited basis in 2021

Carribean, Mexico, Central American Restarts:

Route	Restart Date	Peak Frequency	Operated By
Calgary – Belize City	November 18, 2022	1x Weekly	WestJet
Calgary – Nassau	November 26, 2022	1x weekly	WestJet
Calgary – Varadero	November 5, 2022	1x Weekly	WestJet
Comox – Puerto Vallarta	November 5, 2022	1x Weekly	WestJet
Ottawa – Montego Bay	November 12, 2022	2x Weekly	WestJet
Regina – Cancun*	November 13, 2022	2x Weekly	WestJet
Toronto – Cayo Coco	November 5, 2022	1x Weekly	WestJet
Toronto – Samana	December 17, 2022	1x Weekly	WestJet
Winnipeg – Montego Bay	December 17, 2022	1x Weekly	WestJet

*Operated on very limited basis in 2021

Domestic Routes:

Route	Start Date	Frequency	Operated by
Vancouver – Penticton*	February 17, 2023	6x Weekly	WestJet Link
Edmonton – Nanaimo	October 30, 2022	3x Weekly	WestJet Encore

*new route

About WestJet 

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

8 August 2022

CF Snowbirds will not be able to take part in the Penticton Peach Festival performance today, Wednesday, 3 August.

https://www.facebook.com/CFSnowbirdsFC/posts/pfbid0yoeAzYHcYt1Ln6zHdzX5vkoHK7c9QraPJwcqXJZonprfbmFhvPvBJPAY1SdLReNCl

Web News • 2 August 2022

Click to View 🔗 a new window (or tab) will open to an external site reporting on Canadian aviation news.

3 August 2022
RCAF Incident Update on CF Snowbird Hard Landing in Fort St John and more

https://www.facebook.com/CFSnowbirdsFC/posts/pfbid026MuovEGs8iiJn6YQYEWbqRVhcrrNTMjJvPCWXXGwJrsJCnUZ5TsAncGmvqMeKZMFl

Web News • 2 August 2022

Click to View 🔗 a new window (or tab) will open to an external site reporting on Canadian aviation news.

https://www.facebook.com/CFSnowbirdsFC/posts/pfbid032o4oR9uZNP4pwwuEjBbVjmHNjV4fMo4GDSLezbyHJvJMeoFyeRA1JATHQd5idB7Ul

https://www.facebook.com/CFSnowbirdsFC/posts/pfbid02bLewHHeNjutxVtiHAbMr8hi4nrzappvFFt9AnxJcPbowmd4Lm9myUHpryXgUqKnbl

https://www.facebook.com/CFSnowbirdsFC/posts/pfbid02nk2mYeKWwtE9tqmdaHvRg24NH66qNvFTvdQGk8hhf8cAU5d7Dj6zyy33B1PKsqJUl

2 August 2022
Canadian Snowbirds and SkyHawks fly into Penticton for Peach Fest

Web News • 1 August 2022

Click to View 🔗 a new window (or tab) will open to an external site reporting on Canadian aviation news.

2 August 2022

Pacific Coast Airlines announces Summer 2022 Schedule

Thanks to MW

30 October 2021

Check Out our Summer 2022 Flight Schedule

Take advantage of additional flight options. Book your summer trip today.

Origin and Destination	Sun	Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat	Weekly Flights	Highlights
Vancouver – Victoria	4x	4x	4x	4x	4x	4x	1x	21	Improved minimum connection times between YYJ and other destinations
Vancouver – Powell River	4x	4x	4x	4x	4x	4x	2x	26
Vancouver – Bella Coola	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	7	New daily service
Vancouver – Trail	2x	2x	2x	2x	2x	2x	1x	13
Vancouver – Williams Lake	2x	1x	2x	1x	2x	1x	1x	10
Vancouver – Comox	2x	2x	2x	2x	2x	2x	0x	20	All non-stop flights (no more stops in YBL )
Vancouver – Campbell River	3x	3x	3x	3x	3x	3x	2x	12	All non-stop flights (no more stops in YQQ)
Vancouver – Port Hardy	1x	2x	1x	2x	1x	2x	1x	10	Evening flight Sunday to Friday will operate on Saab
Vancouver – Bella Bella	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	7	New daily service – all flights will operate on Saab
Vancouver – Tofino	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	7	Flights will operate on Saab, Sunday to Friday. New Saturday service.
Victoria – Kelowna	2x	2x	1x	2x	2x	2x	0x	11
Victoria – Prince George	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	0x	6
Vancouver – Cranbrook	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	0x	6
Vancouver – Masset	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	7	New daily service – all flights will operate on Saab
Vancouver – Penticton	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	7	New daily service
Vancouver – Kamloops	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	1x	0x	6

Book With Greater Peace of Mind.

We’re offering unlimited ticket changes for customers who purchase flights by January 31, 2022. Travel worry-free. Learn more.

For ultimate peace of mind and the ability to cancel and receive a refund to the original form of payment, we recommend booking a refundable Encore Fare.

31 October 2021

WestJet adds flights to combat major backlog at Interior airports due to wildfires
From City News 1130 – link to source story – Thank PM

BY CLAIRE FENTON | Posted Aug 4, 2021

FILE PHOTO (Courtesy Kelowna International Airport)

SUMMARY
- WestJet has added additional flights to deal with a major backlog caused by wildfire smoke in recent days
- Dozens of flights were cancelled in several airports because of unsafe conditions caused by the nearby wildfires
- Passengers who can’t get on a flight will also have the option of taking a bus from Kamloops, Penticton or Kelowna
KELOWNA (NEWS 1130) — WestJet has added flights to allow air travel out of the wildfire-ravaged Interior to resume. But with the backlog in cancelled flights, it is expected to take a while before everyone can get back home.

Cancellations were made Monday and Tuesday, with most affected flights operated either by Air Canada or WestJet.

Philip Elchitz with Kelowna International Airport explained Tuesday that BC Wildfire Service placed a “no-fly zone” in the vicinity of the fire. That zone is also right above the instrument approach into Kelowna International.

However, in an update Wednesday, Elchitz says winds are favourable, but he warns conditions could change.

“The smoke is still pretty thick. We’re seeing about five miles of visibility right now at the airport. That’s certainly better than the half-mile visibility we had over the last couple of days. But we’d like to see that improve over the next few days as well.”

He says he understands that passengers are frustrated, and weather permitting, flights should be back to normal soon.

“People have been very resourceful. But there has been a fair amount of frustration and anxiety.”

Passengers who can’t get on a flight Wednesday will also have the option of taking a bus from Kamloops, Penticton or Kelowna.
4 August 2021