CALGARY, AB, Sept. 29, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet, an Alberta Partnership and Canadian commercial airline headquartered in Calgary, Alberta (“WestJet”), is providing notice to United States residents of a recent cybersecurity incident that may affect certain individuals’ personal information.
On June 13, 2025, WestJet identified suspicious activity on its systems. WestJet immediately began its investigation and determined that these were the actions of a sophisticated, criminal third party, who gained unauthorized access to WestJet’s systems.
Given the significant importance of data security to the integrity of its business, WestJet was prepared for incidents of this nature and followed its response planning by taking immediate action to contain the incident and secure its systems. As a result, at no point was the safety and integrity of WestJet’s airline operations in question.
WestJet engaged internal and external experts to perform a technical and forensic investigation to identify the nature and scope of the event. Unfortunately, WestJet confirmed that certain data was obtained from its systems. Since making that determination, WestJet diligently conducted an extensive analysis of that data to identify specific data elements and locate current contact information for certain United States residents who were impacted. As of September 15, 2025, WestJet completed that analysis and as a result is providing this notice. Due to WestJet’s internal precautionary measures, no credit card or debit card numbers, expiry dates and CVV numbers, and no guest user passwords were obtained.
The personal information involved in this incident varies from person to person. For most individuals, the type of personal information involved was not sensitive. However, for certain individuals the data may include information such as name, contact details, information and documents provided in connection with their reservation and travel, and data regarding their relationship with WestJet. In line with regulatory requirements, WestJet has identified those individuals who it will contact to provide information and support regarding this incident where WestJet has sufficient contact information. For more information, WestJet has also posted additional information and guidance on its website.
Given the criminal nature of this incident, WestJet closely cooperated with law enforcement, including the US Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, and has notified the relevant authorities, including the US credit reporting agencies (TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax), the applicable Attorneys General of the US States with impacted residents, Transport Canada, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada and its provincial and international counterparts as appropriate.
Containment is complete, and some additional system and data security measures have been implemented. However, analysis is ongoing, and WestJet will continue to take measures to further enhance its cybersecurity protocols.
In addition, WestJet retained the assistance of Cyberscout, a TransUnion company, in providing impacted individuals with fraud assistance and remediation services. If you received an email or letter notice about this incident directly from WestJet, that notice sets out the types of personal information about you that may have been involved in this incident and provides information on how to access identity theft protection services.
If you were not contacted by WestJet directly and would like to know whether your data was involved, please contact WestJet at 1-888-937-8538 or wjresponseteam@westjet.com.
WestJet encourages individuals to remain vigilant against incidents of identity theft and fraud, to review account statements, and monitor free credit reports for suspicious activity. Out of an abundance of caution, if potentially affected individuals would like to take additional measures to protect against identity theft, the Federal Trade Commission provides general advice here: https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/identity-theft.
We sincerely regret this situation, and we remain grateful for the support and patience of the thousands of guests and WestJetters who place their trust in us.
JLL providing FM services and more for HQ and airport sites for Canada’s second largest airline
TORONTO, Sept. 29, 2025 /CNW/ — JLL announced today that it has been selected by WestJet, Canada’s leading low-cost airline and second-largest carrier, to provide facilities management services across a 1.9-million-square-foot portfolio that includes the airline’s corporate headquarters in Calgary and 17 airport locations nationwide.
JLL’s Aviation group, led by Managing Director Koley MacKay, is responsible for the execution and strategic sourcing across the entire spectrum of soft and hard facility services, including building, electrical, elevator and HVAC maintenance; fire and life safety; janitorial; landscaping and grounds maintenance; and waste disposal and recycling services. JLL will also provide Project and Development services upon request.
The JLL team aims to revolutionize aviation standards by delivering cost savings, enhancing operational efficiency and providing WestJet with comprehensive, adaptive facilities management services that respond to the evolving demands of the aviation industry. To achieve this, JLL is deploying a full suite of cutting-edge tools, including JLL Corrigo with a call center, Azara, JAGGAER, Avetta and more, to efficiently manage and monitor work and drive savings in purchasing and sourcing.
“Our employees and our guests are at the heart of everything we do, and we want to ensure every workplace and operational environment across our network to reflect the comfort, safety and reliability that WestJet is known for,” said Doug Townsend, Senior Manager, Corporate Real Estate at WestJet. “Partnering with JLL strengthens our ability to manage a complex, nationwide portfolio with consistency, efficiency and innovation. Their proven aviation expertise and advanced tools will help us deliver reliable, cost-effective corporate real estate and facilities operations while elevating the experience for our employees and our guests.”
JLL Account Lead Winnie Buchanan and Operations Director Jeff Anderson are managing the day-to-day operations and leading a team of FM experts across the WestJet sites. JLL Solutions Development Principal Michael Colligan and the Aviation support team are aiding in support and the transition.
“We’re thrilled to partner with WestJet to deliver world-class facilities management services that will support their continued growth and operational excellence,” MacKay said. “Our specialized aviation expertise, combined with our innovative technology platform and dedicated team, positions us to help WestJet optimize their facilities operations while reducing costs and enhancing the passenger and employee experience across their extensive network.”
“As a proudly Canadian firm, WestJet represents a significant milestone in JLL’s continued expansion across Canada’s dynamic commercial real estate market,” added Scott Barras, Head of Work Dynamics Canada at JLL. “As businesses adapt to evolving workplace dynamics and operational requirements, we’re seeing increased demand for sophisticated facilities management solutions that can scale with growth. WestJet’s selection of JLL reflects our ability to deliver innovative, technology-driven services that support Canada’s leading companies as they navigate the changing landscape of workplace and operational excellence.”
JLL’s Industrials division is the premier provider of strategic real estate advisory for aviation authorities, airlines, cargo operators and airport-related enterprises. Its specialized aviation team covers the entire real estate lifecycle from strategic portfolio planning, public-private partnerships and facilities management to transaction services, project management and operational optimization. With deep expertise in airport infrastructure, cargo facilities, maintenance hangars and aviation support services, JLL brings both the industry knowledge and global reach to transform aviation real estate portfolios into high-performing assets that enhance operational efficiency, maximize revenue potential and reduce total occupancy costs while meeting stringent regulatory and safety requirements.
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.
About JLL For over 200 years, JLL (NYSE: JLL), a leading global commercial real estate and investment management company, has helped clients buy, build, occupy, manage and invest in a variety of commercial, industrial, hotel, residential and retail properties. A Fortune 500 company with annual revenue of $23.4 billion and operations in over 80 countries around the world, our more than 112,000 employees bring the power of a global platform combined with local expertise. Driven by our purpose to shape the future of real estate for a better world, we help our clients, people and communities SEE A BRIGHTER WAYSM. JLL is the brand name, and a registered trademark, of Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. For further information, visit jll.com.
Twenty-one teams from across Calgary compete to haul 67,000-pound aircraft, raising money for Canadian families in need of medical care far from home
CALGARY, AB, Sept. 24, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet celebrates Hope Air’s annual Haul for Hope in Calgary today with a record number of all WestJet employee teams competing to haul a 67,000-pound Q400 aircraft to raise money for Hope Air. Of the total teams in Calgary competing, 10 of them are comprised of WestJet employees from across all areas of the business, signifying care and commitment to community investment.
“I am proud to once again participate in Hope Air’s Haul for Hope alongside 260 fellow participants who share in our commitment to provide Canadians in financial need access vital medical care far from home,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Chief Executive Officer. “Our longstanding partnership with Hope Air is a testament to how essential air travel is in Canada and with 41 domestic destinations across WestJet’s network, we are proud to support Hope Air in their mission to make it easier for Canadians to access vital medical care.”
“We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible energy, teamwork, and generosity at our final Haul for Hope in Calgary,” said Mark Rubinstein, CEO of Hope Air. “Thanks to WestJet, our amazing participants, and the Calgary International Airport (YYC) community, this event will have a direct impact on the patients and families who rely on Hope Air to access life-saving medical care far from home. Together, we’ve proven that when a community comes together, distance and cost don’t have to be barriers to care.”
“YYC Calgary International Airport connects Canadians across the country and around the world,” said Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO, Calgary Airports. “We’re proud to join with WestJet to raise funds for Hope Air, to support access to critical health care for everyone.”
Since 2007, WestJet and Hope Air have partnered to provide thousands of flights for Canadian families in need of medical care and fundraised thousands of dollars for Hope Air through the gift of flight, signifying the transformative impact of this partnership.
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.
Interior modernization on former all-economy Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 aircraft to offer refreshed range of seating options.
WestJet is investing in a consistent on-board guest experience with a new cabin interior and amenities to create a cohesive look and feel across WestJet’s formerly economy-only aircraft. A full cabin refresh will introduce upgraded Premium seating onto these aircraft and significantly expand the offering of popular Extended Comfort seating options.
The modern cabin experience will offer a bright, airy atmosphere with an upgraded design that features new seats, adjustable headrests and enhanced cushion and back support with a fixed recline design in Economy that helps preserve personal space. The interior will also include in-seat power sources, personal phone/tablet holders and reworked lavatories and galleys.
“The cabin has been thoughtfully designed to offer WestJet’s welcoming service at every budget,” said Samantha Taylor, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Experience Officer, “It reflects our commitment to elevating every aspect of the travel experience and meeting guest demand for a broader range of product offerings” adds Taylor.
WestJet’s new aircraft interior will feature a refreshed Premium cabin with 12 new seats that are the same model as in WestJet’s 787-9 Dreamliner fleet: ergonomically contoured seat cushions, reclining seat backs and a large headrest with four-way adjustment capability.
In the economy cabin, the new and larger Extended Comfort section, located directly behind Premium features 36 seats with extra legroom and will be separated from the Economy cabin by a cabin divider. Exit row seating in the Economy cabin remains an option for travellers who want the most legroom.
The standard seating in the Economy cabin offers choices ranging from less space at the back to more space near the front of the cabin, and upgraded seats featuring seatback contouring to maximize legroom, ergonomically designed, contoured bottom and back cushions.
(Artist rendering. Some features may not be exactly as shown)
New cabin experience creates more options for Canadians
In line with the airline’s strategy, a variety and segmentation of seating choices are designed to fit every comfort and budget level and create more options for Canadians. Ultra slim-line seats allow enough space on-board to add one seating row compared to the airline’s prior standard layout, reducing the cost per seat and helping to provide Canadians with affordable fares and optionality.
“WestJet has always been a pioneer in making air travel available to Canadians, largely through keeping costs low to offer affordable airfares,” said Taylor. “The layout for our refreshed cabin caters to our guests’ diverse preferences. Whether they opt for Premium seating with extra amenities and legroom or for more affordable ticket prices with less space, we’re excited to introduce this range of products for our guests to enjoy.”
WestJet Rewards members and employees helped select the new seats in January 2023, by testing and sharing their experiences on which options were the most comfortable. A complete cabin prototype was tested in late Summer 2025, and feedback was incorporated to help shape rollout, training and preparation for the launch.
A game-changing inflight internet experience
Installation of WestJet Wi-Fi presented by TELUS will complement cabin enhancements on WestJet’s aircraft. The best-in-class, high-speed, low-latency internet technology provides the same reliable streaming-level speeds in the air that guests are used to enjoying on the ground. WestJet Wi-Fi is free for WestJet Rewards members and is already revolutionizing the way guests stream, shop, play and work from the skies.
Installation of WestJet Wi-Fi across the fleet is ongoing and is planned to be completed on all its Boeing 737-800 and MAX-8 aircraft by the end of 2025. For more information on WestJet’s new cabin configuration, visit westjet.com/en-ca/aircraft/cabin-updates.
Edmontonians come together to haul a WestJet Q400 aircraft in support of Canadian families in need of medical care far from home
EDMONTON, AB, Sept. 22, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet joins more than 100 participants across eight teams to haul a 67,000-pound WestJet Q400 aircraft raising $30,000 to support Canadians who require travel to access medical care far from home.
“WestJet is proud to partner with Hope Air for the second consecutive year to host today’s Haul for Hope Event in Edmonton, one of our key focus cities,” said Jared Mikoch-Gerke, WestJet Director of Alliances and Airport Affairs. “The overwhelming turnout at today’s event is a testament to the transformative impact of WestJet’s partnership with Hope Air and incredible community support that reinforces our shared commitment to supporting Canadians as they travel to receive vital medical care.”
“Haul for Hope is more than a show of strength—it’s a show of solidarity. Today’s incredible turnout in Edmonton demonstrates how deeply this community cares about ensuring no Canadian is left behind when it comes to accessing medical care. Thanks to the dedication of our partners like WestJet, YEG, and the generosity of the teams and supporters who joined us, more patients will be able to travel to receive the treatment they need, when they need it most,” said Mark Rubinstein, CEO of Hope Air.
Since 2007, WestJet and Hope Air have partnered to provide 24,000 flights for Canadian families in need of medical care and has helped to fundraise thousands of dollars for Hope Air through the gift of flight, signifying the transformative impact of this partnership.
“We are delighted to once again host Haul for Hope at YEG, in partnership with WestJet and Hope Air,” said Myron Keehn, President and CEO, Edmonton International Airport (YEG). “Our airport plays a vital role in ensuring patients needing medical care can seamlessly access health services across the country. Today’s event brought our community together to open skies for hope, health and a lifeline to medical care, no matter how far from home they must travel.”
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.
CALGARY, AB–(BUSINESS WIRE)–CUPE 8125, representing WestJet flight attendants, has officially served notice to bargain a new collective agreement.
“WestJet flight attendants are professionals who deserve to be paid for every minute they’re on the job, from pre-boarding safety checks to post-flight duties,” said Alia Hussain, President of CUPE 8125. “Unpaid work is unacceptable, and it’s time for that to end.”
Flight attendants across Canada are standing up for better treatment. This summer, Air Canada flight attendants walked off the job over similar issues, and Canadians overwhelmingly backed their fight.
“We are committed to negotiating in good faith and securing a deal that respects the critical role flight attendants play in keeping the skies safe,” said Hussain.
“Our message to WestJet is plain and simple. Pay us fairly. Pay us for all our time.”
CALGARY, AB, Sept. 15, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet accepted the 2026 APEX Four Star Major Airline award at the APEX Global Expo in Long Beach, California. The award stands as the only global award entirely based on neutral, third-party passenger feedback and insights gathered through APEX’s partnership with TripIt® from Concur®, the world’s most used travel-organizing app.
WestJet’s Vice President, Inflight, Robert Antoniak and Program Manager, Inflight Experience, Danielle Symington accept award (CNW Group/WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership)
“This recognition is a direct reflection of the passion, dedication, and excellence our frontline teams brought to life this year,” says Alex Mitchell, Vice President, Guest Experience, WestJet. “It’s a huge win for our entire WestJet team—and I couldn’t be prouder.”
This year, WestJet also had the privilege of showcasing its iconic uniform on the Expo’s global stage during the PCIAW® Fashion Show.
“Guest experience is built on global partnerships, and one of the most recognizable parts of that experience comes from WestJet’s uniformed employees,” says Elise Featherstone, Manager, Uniforms. “The uniform represents more than just attire — it’s a symbol of safety, comfort, and trust for every person who travels with us.”
For the 2026 Awards, over one million PNR verified flights have been rated by passengers spanning over 600 airlines from around the world using a five-star scale. The APEX Five Star™ and APEX Four Star™ Airline Awards are independently certified by a professional external auditing company.
Ongoing education and talent development to meet future demand of expanding aviation hub
CALGARY, AB, Sept. 10, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet and CAE announced today the signing of a 15-year training agreement under which CAE will establish the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence (the Centre) for Aviation and Aerospace—a cutting-edge aviation training facility in Calgary, subject to customary contingencies. Slated to open in 2028, the 126,000 square foot facility will house eight full-flight simulators, with capacity for expansion, alongside cabin trainers and state of the art digital learning tools. WestJet will be the Centre’s primary commercial airline customer and be the first to schedule initial and recurrent training for pilots and cabin crew on Boeing 737MAX, 737NG, 787 Dreamliner, and De Havilland Dash 8-400 (Q400) aircraft. In partnership with Mount Royal University (MRU), the facility will be the first of its kind in Canada to combine state-of-the-art training equipment with collaborative research and development initiatives.
“WestJet’s commitment to being the first commercial airline customer at the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence is testament to our investment in our current and future WestJetters and in Calgary as an aviation hub,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer of the WestJet Group. “This 15-year contract is a significant commitment that will ensure our people receive the highest standard of training for years to come, and we’re very pleased to join forces with CAE, a global leader in aviation training and fellow Canadian company, to bring this project to life.”
“Today marks a proud moment for CAE and for Canadian aviation,” said Matthew Bromberg, CAE’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “The Alberta Training Centre of Excellence represents what’s possible when industry, academia, and government come together with a shared vision for innovation, safety, and workforce development. As global demand for aviation professionals accelerates, this centre positions Canada to remain at the forefront of training excellence. I am grateful to our partners for their trust and collaboration in shaping the future of aviation.”
“We’re honoured to take our longstanding partnership with WestJet to new heights and thank them for their continued trust and confidence,” said Michel Azar-Hmouda, CAE Division President, Commercial Aviation. “The Alberta Training Centre of Excellence marks a major milestone in CAE’s growth in Western Canada and underscores our commitment to being where our customers need us most. This achievement is also a testament to the collaboration and support of our government and industry partners, whose contributions helped bring this vision to life. We look forward to welcoming pilots and cabin crew to this state-of-the-art facility, proudly supporting these professionals for the moments that matter.”
A centerpiece of Calgary’s aviation hub
This initiative marks CAE’s expansion into Western Canada and anchors Calgary as a strategic hub for aviation workforce development. The high-quality training environment will support WestJet’s growing workforce, as well as personnel from other carriers, and will also serve the next generation of commercial aviators from Mount Royal University (MRU).
The facility is also expected to generate new jobs in construction, education and training, and will support both WestJet and CAE’s commitment to safety and operational excellence while driving economic opportunity and global connectivity for travel, trade and commerce.
Construction will begin later this year, with training operations and ongoing research and development initiatives launching upon completion in 2028.
Meeting the demand for aviation talent
WestJet’s long-term expansion strategy depends on a robust talent pipeline, and MRU’s collaboration with WestJet at the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence will expose prospective professionals to commercial aviation through an Airline Transition Program (ATP) to be launched soon. The program will combine specialty training for MRU aviation students from WestJet with allocated simulator training time at the facility.
CAE will lead the design, development, and ongoing operation of the Centre, with MRU taking a leading role as the primary post-secondary collaborator by contributing academic research expertise and supporting mentorship and career-integrated student learning opportunities in partnership with both CAE and WestJet.
The agreement to develop the Centre of Excellence builds on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between WestJet and the Government of Alberta, signed in 2022, to drive economic recovery and growth through the aerospace, aviation and logistics sectors in the province.
Additional quotes
Government of Alberta – “The Training Centre of Excellence is about more than supporting one project. It is about securing Alberta’s place as a leader in aviation for decades to come. From training pilots to advancing aerospace technology, Alberta is stepping up to ensure our province is not only keeping pace with global demand but setting the standard for excellence. Calgary will be recognized worldwide as a hub of aviation expertise, and Alberta will be known as the place where talent, innovation and opportunity come together to power the future of flight,” said Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta.
“Our government is excited to help make the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence in aviation and aerospace a reality here in Calgary. This investment is a result of our focus on making Alberta the best place to do business. Low corporate taxes, reduced red tape, and competitive incentive programs like the Investment and Growth Fund continue to attract world-class investments, support workforce development, create jobs, and grow the economy,” said Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration.
Mount Royal University – “Mount Royal University is excited to partner with CAE and WestJet in shaping the future of aviation training, accelerating the path from first flight to a career in the industry. Through this collaboration, students will experience transformative opportunities—including advanced training programs, access to advanced simulators, CAE scholarships, and networking and mentorship from industry leaders.
Combining cutting-edge simulation technologies with integrated teaching and research initiatives will elevate our Aviation programs and empower the next generation of aviation professionals to lead with safety, innovation, and excellence,” said Mount Royal University president and vice-chancellor, Dr. Tim Rahilly.”
The City of Calgary – “Calgary is positioning itself as a national leader in aerospace innovation, and this $6.9 million investment marks a pivotal step forward,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “By developing local talent, advancing research and supporting industry collaboration, we’re helping solve national challenges while building a more resilient and future-focused economy as Canada’s inland port.”
Calgary Airports – “The development and construction of the Alberta Centre for Excellence is a major step forward in establishing Calgary and Alberta as a leader in critical aviation infrastructure,” says Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO of Calgary Airports. “Envisioned at Calgary Airports, it will be a cornerstone in YYC AeroNex, a future-focused network of facilities that connects technology, innovation, infrastructure and education to transform our local economy and build the next generation of aviation professionals.”
Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund – “Today marks another important step in making our city and our region an aviation hub. The Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF), along with our partners at the Government of Alberta, CAE, WestJet, and Mount Royal University, is committed to help build the aviation workforce of tomorrow. Through OCIF, we’re helping do what Calgary does best: connecting bold ideas with the right people together to make amazing things happen and to build a strong, resilient economic future for our city.” said Brad Parry, CEO and President, Calgary Economic Development and CEO, Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund.
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 CAE
At CAE, we exist to make the world safer. We deliver cutting-edge training, simulation, and critical operations solutions to prepare aviation professionals and defence forces for the moments that matter. Every day, we empower pilots, cabin crew, maintenance technicians, airlines, business aviation operators, and defence and security personnel to perform at their best and when the stakes are the highest. Around the globe, we’re everywhere customers need us to be with approximately 13,000 employees at around 240 sites and training locations in over 40 countries. For nearly 80 years, CAE has been at the forefront of innovation, consistently seeking to set the standard by delivering excellence in high-fidelity flight simulators and training solutions, while embedding sustainability at the heart of everything we do. By harnessing technology and enhancing human performance, we strive to be the trusted partner in advancing safety and mission readiness—today and tomorrow.
WestJet flight 2276, operating from Toronto, experienced a hard landing upon arrival at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) at 17:29 UTC today.
Emergency services responded immediately, deploying foam as a precaution. The aircraft’s slides were activated, and all guests and crew safely evacuated and were transported to the terminal. All guests are accounted for and there are no reported injuries.
At this time, we are awaiting confirmation on the exact nature of the incident. Our teams are focused on supporting our guests and crew, ensuring their safety and care remain our highest priority.
WestJet is fully cooperating with local authorities and will provide additional updates as more information is available.
Sizeable aircraft order to be delivered through 2034 as part of airline’s multi-billion-dollar investment in future growth
CALGARY, AB, Sept. 3, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced an agreement with Boeing for the purchase of 60 737-10 MAX narrowbody aircraft, with options for an additional 25. The order also includes seven 787-9 Dreamliner widebody aircraft with options for four more as the company advances its growth strategy to build a stronger, resilient low-cost airline that provides Canadians with more choice, more destinations and more value.
This order increases the airline’s current order book, to 123 aircraft and 40 options, while extending WestJet’s fleet growth plans through 2034.
“With the addition of these aircraft, WestJet has the largest order book of any airline in Canada and will double our fleet of Dreamliners, underpinning our growth plans and our commitment to affordable travel options for Canadians from coast to coast and exciting career paths for our people,” said WestJet Chief Executive Officer, Alexis von Hoensbroech. “These highly efficient and comfortable aircraft are critical to the growth and renewal of our fleet and will also significantly improve our fuel consumption.”
Since the airline’s inception in 1996, WestJet has been safely and reliably serving millions of Canadians onboard Boeing aircraft. This substantial commitment to WestJet’s growth will allow the airline to continue to build its network and offer affordable options for guests for years to come.
“We are honored that WestJet has once again placed its trust in Boeing with a major investment that builds on our three decades of partnership and solidifies their fleet for the decades ahead,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We look forward to supporting WestJet’s exciting growth as they leverage the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner to serve even more guests with great efficiency and comfort.”
The deal marks future economic benefits on both sides of the border. Canada is one of Boeing’s largest international supply bases, providing aerospace parts for all Boeing commercial airplane models in production, contributing $4 billion in economic benefit to Canada each year, while securing long-term manufacturing jobs in both Canada and the United States.
“This agreement between WestJet and Boeing reflects a pragmatic approach to doing business, creating new opportunities, economic benefits, and long-term jobs on both sides of the border, while ensuring that WestJet is well-equipped to grow, offer more options for passengers, and better connect Canadians,” said the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade.
Building on WestJet’s already significant investment in its home province Alberta, the airline is continuing to invest and grow its commitment to the province.
“I’m thrilled to see this historic purchase agreement between WestJet and Boeing. Not only does this represent WestJet’s largest-ever aircraft order, but it also reinforces Alberta’s growing reputation, both nationally and internationally, as a leading aerospace and aviation hub. Alberta remains a place where businesses can grow and thrive for the future. Alberta’s government continues to be a proud partner of WestJet, including recent support for Lufthansa’s milestone engine repair facility investment.” – Alberta Premier, Danielle Smith
WestJet currently operates 193 passenger aircraft, inclusive of 147 Boeing 737s, seven 787s and 39 De Havilland Q400s. With an average age of approximately 10 years, WestJet’s fleet is among the youngest of established North American carriers.
WestJet’s Board of Directors approved the order for additional Boeing 737 and 787 aircraft to mark the airline’s largest order agreement to-date, and the largest-ever Canadian Boeing order.
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)
