Members of Triangle Rewards and WestJet Rewards unlock enhanced travel and retail value by linking accounts
TORONTO, March 25, 2026 /CNW/ – Two trusted Canadian loyalty programs, Triangle Rewards and WestJet Rewards, have teamed up to introduce new ways for millions of Canadians to earn more rewards across travel and everyday shopping.
In just a few clicks, members can now link their WestJet Rewards and Triangle Rewards accounts to spend once and earn twice. From booking flights to changing tires, linked members can earn both WestJet points and Canadian Tire Money on eligible items across participating CTC and WestJet businesses. Linked members who pay with their Triangle credit card or any WestJet RBC® Mastercard‡ credit card will earn even more rewards when shopping with participating CTC and WestJet businesses.
“Canadians are always looking for ways to get more value from the purchases they make every day,” said Darryl Jenkins, Executive Vice-President and Chief Development Officer, Canadian Tire Corporation. “By linking Triangle Rewards and WestJet Rewards, our members can now spend once and earn twice, collecting both Canadian Tire Money and WestJet points whether they’re shopping for everyday essentials or planning their next trip.”
“Together, WestJet Rewards and Triangle Rewards are making it easier for Canadians to earn more and enjoy greater choice,” said John Weatherill, Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer, WestJet Group. “By enabling members with linked accounts to stack their earn at the stores they know and love, we are getting Canadians closer to their next dream vacation faster.”
Turn everyday spending into a vacation From tires and workwear to party supplies and sporting equipment, members with linked accounts will unlock more rewards on everyday purchases. Linked members earn WestJet points on top of Canadian Tire Money on qualifying purchases at participating stores including Canadian Tire, SportChek and Mark’s. For the full list of participating stores, visit: triangle.ca/westjet.
Everyday rewards arrive faster with WestJet When booking flights on WestJet.com or through the WestJet app, members with linked accounts earn Canadian Tire Money on top of WestJet points on flights, vacation packages and travel extras such as baggage fees and seat selection.
Linked members can also convert their WestJet points into Canadian Tire Money to put towards retail purchases.
FRANK takes flight with WestJet In celebration of the partnership between Triangle Rewards and WestJet Rewards, a selection of FRANK snacks, a fan favourite at Canadian Tire, will be served complimentary onboard WestJet flights.
About WestJet Taking to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations, WestJet is proudly celebrating its 30th birthday. Over the last three decades, WestJet has transformed Canada’s aviation landscape by pioneering 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 the Americas, 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. For more information, visit westjet.com.
About Canadian Tire Corporation Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited has been a proudly Canadian business since 1922. Guided by its brand purpose, “We are here to make life in Canada better,” CTC has built an expansive national retail presence, exceptional customer brand trust and one of Canada’s strongest workforces – employing, along with its local Dealers and franchisees, tens of thousands of Canadians. At its core are retail businesses, each designed to serve life’s pursuits: Canadian Tire, offering products spanning Living, Playing, Fixing, Automotive, and Seasonal & Gardening, bolstered by notable banners Party City and PartSource; Mark’s, a leading source for casual and industrial wear; SportChek, Hockey Experts, Sports Experts and Atmosphere, offering the best brands of active wear and gear; and Pro Hockey Life, a hockey specialty store catering to elite players.
HALIFAX, NS, March 24, 2026 /CNW/ – WestJet and Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) have expanded their codeshare partnership for the second time in three months, providing guests on both sides of the Atlantic with more seamless travel options to explore all of Scandinavia and Canada this summer.
WestJet guests can book travel to Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland via the airline’s non-stop service between Halifax and Copenhagen with the convenience of a single ticket, baggage transfers and the ability to earn WestJet Rewards throughout. The addition is particularly exciting for guests based in Atlantic Canada, that will now have single-stop connections to:
Stockholm, Sweden
Goteborg, Sweden
Oslo, Norway
Bergen, Norway
Stavanger, Norway
Trondheim, Norway
Aalborg, Denmark
Helsinki, Finland
“This partnership enhancement strengthens WestJet and SAS’ joint effort to strategically connect our networks and make travel planning easy for our shared guests,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. “Whether they are travelling for business or leisure, adding new codeshare connections with our five-star APEX awarded partner, SAS, via our all-new service between Halifax and Copenhagen provides even more choice for Europeans and Canadians alike.”
SAS codeshare boost opens new tourism doors in Atlantic Canada
SAS has also placed its SK code on WestJet’s seasonal nonstop service between Halifax and Copenhagen, allowing guests across Scandinavia and throughout SAS’ comprehensive network to seamlessly connect to Halifax and Atlantic Canada. This means East Coast Canadians can welcome even more guests from across Europe throughout the busy summer travel season, strengthening tourism, supporting local businesses and making it easier for friends and family to connect seaside.
WestJet’s service between Copenhagen and Halifax operates four days per week during the summer months and complements WestJet’s ongoing codeshare connections to Scandinavia. The airline currently offers codeshare access beyond WestJet’s transatlantic flights between Calgary and Paris, and Calgary and London, as previously announced late last year.
New codeshare bookings are now available through travel agents, WestJet.com or the WestJet app.
Waterloo Region – The Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF) helps connect people and businesses to destinations across Canada and beyond.
In 2025, more than 426,500 passengers travelled through YKF. This was the airport’s third-highest passenger total on record. Passenger numbers have been affected by shifting travel patterns and fewer flights to the United States. Even so, demand for travel within Canada and for convenient connections remains strong.
“YKF is an important piece of infrastructure for Waterloo Region,” said Karen Redman, Chair of the Region of Waterloo. “It contributes more than $220 million each year to our local economy. When residents choose to fly from YKF, they support local jobs in airport operations, security, customer service, and maintenance. They also support local businesses that serve passengers, like Stockyards, which provides food service using locally sourced ingredients. Choosing YKF means supporting local services, employers, and supply chains.”
Airports are measured in two ways: passengers (how many people travel) and aircraft movements (each plane takeoff or landing). YKF is one of Canada’s fastest-growing airports and is consistently ranked in the top 20 busiest Canadian airports for passengers. In 2025, YKF had 145,313 takeoffs and landings, making YKF one of the top 10 busiest airports in the country for runway activity.
When more people fly through YKF, it also helps pay for airport improvements. Because of recent terminal upgrades and operational changes, YKF can now handle up to one million passengers a year without increasing operating costs. This means the airport is better prepared to meet changing travel needs in the future.
Flair Airlines, Sunwing, and WestJet offer non-stop flights from YKF. Air Canada Landline provides motorcoach service between YKF and Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ). To meet increased demand, Air Canada has doubled its service and now offers 10 return trips daily. Together, YKF’s airline partners provide access to more than 140 destinations worldwide through their global networks.
YKF is proud to be one of only four airports in Canada certified gold by the Rick Hansen Foundation for accessibility. The airport is committed to removing barriers so more passengers can move through the airport safely and with confidence. For more information, visit www.waterlooairport.ca.
On or about February 16, 2025, WestJet committed 16 violations of subsection 14(1)(a) of the APPR by failing to provide passengers affected by the delay and subsequent cancellation of flight WS3103, food and drink in reasonable quantities, taking into account the length of the wait, the time of the day and the location of the passengers.
On or about that same date, WestJet also committed 19 violations of subsection 14(2) of the APPR by failing to offer passengers affected by the delay and cancellation of that same flight, hotel or other comparable accommodation that is reasonable in relation to the location of the passengers, as well as transportation to the hotel or other accommodation and back to the airport, free of charge, while passengers were required to wait overnight for their original flight or for a flight reserved as part of alternate travel arrangements.
WestJet has until April 7, 2026, to request reviews before the Transportation Appeal Tribunal of Canada.
The National Airlines Council of Canada’s peer-reviewed study, which was published earlier today, found that by reducing the third-party taxes, fees, charges and regulations that are currently imposed upon Canadian air travellers today, Canada could increase its GDP by up to 15 billion dollars. The report also found that in doing this, up to 150,000 jobs would be created, sparking trade and tourism opportunities from coast-to-coast-to-coast.
“We are pleased to see that our valued partners at NACC are investing in the research WestJet has long believed and advocated for. Making air travel more affordable by lowering third-party taxes and fees is one of the most important levers in strengthening Canada’s economy,” said Jacqui McGillivary, WestJet Group EVP & Chief People and Public Affairs Officer.
“A Canada connected by affordable air travel is a better Canada for everyone. I urge all Canadian to review NACC’s report and educate themselves on the importance of making air travel more affordable,” continued McGillivary. “NACC’s recommendations mean more Canadians could gain stronger access to necessities such as medical care and trade, as well as connect with the people and places they love.”
Members can earn and redeem WestJet Rewards on codeshare flights with Virgin Atlantic via London-Heathrow to the United Arab Emirates, The Maldives and South Africa.
CALGARY, AB, Feb. 17, 2026 /CNW/ – WestJet and Virgin Atlantic have joined forces to deliver more value to their loyalty members. Beginning today, WestJet Rewards and Virgin Atlantic Flying Club members can earn points with their preferred loyalty program on each other’s entire network including VS-WS codeshare flights. The update to the partnership is particularly meaningful for WestJet guests travelling on Virgin Atlantic’s Toronto (YYZ) – London (LHR) route, which serves as a popular bridge for thousands of Canadians that connect through Toronto Pearson to reach Virgin Atlantic’s primary hub at London Heathrow.
“Strengthening ties with a world-class airline like Virgin Atlantic has long delivered stronger connectivity for our guests. Today’s announcement builds on that foundation, unlocking greater value and expanded opportunities for WestJet Rewards members to engage with our loyalty program,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “By broadening the ways members can earn and redeem WestJet points, we are making it easier for guests to get even more value out of every journey with WestJet and Virgin Atlantic.”
“Our partnership with WestJet continues to strengthen, providing our Flying Club members more choice and connectivity in how they fly between Canada, the UK and beyond,” said Juha Jaervinen, Virgin Atlantic Chief Customer Officer. “As we approach the one-year anniversary of our return to Toronto, we’re pleased to deliver more ways for our customers to earn and burn through Flying Club alongside our partners at WestJet and introduce increased capacity with daily flights on our largest aircraft, 397 –seater, Airbus A350-1000 for the summer season.”
In addition to expanded earning opportunities, WestJet Rewards members will continue to be able to redeem WestJet points as a form of payment on WestJet codeshare flights operated by Virgin Atlantic, which are now available to be booked via WestJet.com. This includes redemption on WestJet marketed flights via London-Heathrow to:
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (DXB)
Malé, Maldives (MLE)
Cape Town, South Africa (CPT)
Johannesburg, South Africa (JNB)
Last year, WestJet revamped its rewards program, adding more value and flexibility, while maintaining the program’s simplicity. Integrating WestJet Rewards with Virgin Atlantic’s Flying Club marks the first airline loyalty partnership since the update and the first new reciprocal flyer partnership for WestJet in almost 10 years.
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 the Americas, 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.
Learn more about WestJet at westjet.com/en-ca/who-we-are (also available in French)
About Virgin Atlantic Virgin Atlantic was founded by entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson in 1984, with innovation and amazing customer service at its core. In 2025, the airline was voted Britain’s only Global Five Star Airline by APEX for the ninth year running in the Official Airline Ratings. Headquartered in London, it employs 9,250 people worldwide, flying customers to 28 destinations throughout the year.
Alongside shareholder and partner Delta Air Lines, Virgin Atlantic operates a leading transatlantic network, with onward connections to over 200 cities around the world. In 2020, Air France-KLM, Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic launched an expanded Joint Venture, offering a comprehensive route network, convenient flight schedules, competitive fares and reciprocal frequent flyer benefits, including the ability to earn and redeem miles across all carriers. Virgin Atlantic joined SkyTeam in 2023, as the global airline alliance’s first and only UK member airline, enhancing SkyTeam’s transatlantic network to and from London Heathrow and Manchester.
Virgin Atlantic has been pioneering sustainability leadership for more than 15 years, committing to Net Zero by 2050 and continuous action that reduces environmental impact. The airline operates one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the skies, with an average age of 6.9yrs. In 2022, Virgin Atlantic welcomed its first A330-900’s to the fleet, continuing its transformation towards 100% next generation aircraft by 2028. For more information visit www.virginatlantic.com
WestJet is responding to the developing situation in Cuba and the latest travel advisory by Global Affairs Canada. At this time, the Government of Canada continues to advise travellers to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Cuba, related to fuel shortages and impacts to essential services that may disrupt travel on short notice.
Aligning with our focus to put guests and crew first and protect the integrity of our operation, WestJet Group has made the decision to begin an orderly wind down of our winter operations to Cuba, this is inclusive of WestJet, Sunwing Vacations, WestJet Vacations and Vacances WestJet Quebec.
To lessen the strain on local resources, beginning today, WestJet will depart Canada with empty aircraft to support the organized return of guests currently vacationing in Cuba. All aircraft dispatched to Cuba will carry sufficient fuel to safely depart without reliance on local fuel availability.
Information regarding guest cancellations and next steps can be found at Guest Updates Hub.
CALGARY, AB, Feb. 5, 2026 /CNW/ – WestJet Group is pleased to announce that Marek Andryszak will join the organization as President, Sunwing Vacations Group, effective March 16, 2026. Andryszak will replace Andrew Dawson who announced his retirement in 2025.
Marek Andryszak (CNW Group/WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership)
“Marek, known for his global mindset and a strong appreciation for cultural diversity, is widely recognized for building high-performing teams and successfully launching new business ventures,” says John Weatherill, WestJet Group Chief Commercial Officer. “We are excited to welcome Marek, his leadership will be instrumental in shaping the strategic direction of the Sunwing Vacations Group as we strengthen our position as the market leader in the Canadian packaged tours market.”
Andryszak brings more than 25 years of senior leadership experience in the tour operator sector, having held executive roles at DSR Hotel Holding and TUI Group. His expertise spans leading major initiatives including modernizing tour operator distribution channels, driving international growth, advancing product development, and strengthening cost and capacity management–all critical capabilities as WestJet continues to grow and evolve its tour operator business.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the WestJet Group and leading Sunwing Vacations at such an exciting time for the business. Canada’s travel market offers incredible opportunities, and I look forward to working with our talented teams to deliver exceptional vacation experiences for our customers,” Says Andryszak. “My family and I are eager to make the move to Toronto and embrace life in Canada as we start this new chapter together.”
About Sunwing Vacations Group
Sunwing Vacations Group, the vacation division of the WestJet Group, encompasses the leading Canadian vacation brands Sunwing Vacations, WestJet Vacations and WestJet Vacations Québec, along with the growing United States tour operator Vacation Express, together with the group’s travel retail businesses SellOffVacations.com and Luxe Destination Weddings. Together they form the largest vacations brands in North America. More information on each brand, the company’s growth trajectory and employment opportunities can be found at sunwingvacationsgroup.com.
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.
Flight marks the first non-stop service between Western Canada and South America.
New route offers exceptional access to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks including the Amazon Rainforest, Patagonia and the Iguaçu Falls.
CALGARY, AB, Jan. 19, 2026 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced service to Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) in São Paulo, Brazil, marking the airline’s 100th destination from YYC Calgary Airport. As of this fall, WestJet will offer the only non-stop flight between Western Canada and South America, operating three times weekly between Calgary and São Paulo.
“Our first flight between Western Canada and South America is the beginning of an exciting chapter in WestJet’s Calgary story. From our very first flight in 1996 to 100 non-stop destinations on four continents, this city has stood alongside us every step of the way,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer of the WestJet Group. “We’re deeply grateful to our Calgary partners and the millions of guests who have trusted us over the years; this support has made the road from one to 100 possible and we are proud to further strengthen Calgary’s position as the best connected mid-sized city in North America!”
“YYC Calgary International Airport has been a proud partner to WestJet for 30 years, and we’re excited to celebrate the 100th direct destination out of Calgary,” said Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO of Calgary Airports. “This expansion to South America brings more of the world to discover our city and our spectacular region, and gives local passengers a stronger direct connection to destinations around the globe.”
The new service complements WestJet’s winter leisure offerings, providing Western Canadians with a new continental gateway to escape the winter for warmer weather adventures. From the cultural heart of São Paulo and the golden beaches of Rio di Janeiro to Lima’s coastal cliffs and Santiago’s vineyard valleys, WestJet’s new route delivers a world of possibility.
As the largest city in the Americas, São Paulo also adds valuable business opportunities, including belly-cargo capacity, supporting businesses on both continents with more flexible access to expanding markets. Not only is São Paulo the economic heartbeat of South America, but its world-class culinary landscape, rich history and thriving entertainment industry make the destination a must-see for Canadians.
A new continental connection
The new service between Calgary and São Paulo, aboard WestJet’s 787-9 Dreamliner unlocks an entirely new continent for Western Canadians to explore. Guests can book flights between Calgary and São Paulo on WestJet.com beginning today for travel this fall.
Route
Frequency
Start date
Departure
Arrival
Calgary – São Paulo*
3x weekly
November 8, 2026
22:45
15:35
São Paulo – Calgary*
3x weekly
November 9, 2026
19:40
05:15
*Pending government approval
São Paulo is a global hub of LATAM Airlines Group, WestJet’s key South American partner. In the coming months, pending all associated government approvals, WestJet guests will gain convenient access to more than 30 onward and desirable destinations across the continent including Lima, Peru; Santiago, Chile; Buenos Aires, Argentina; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Montevideo, Uruguay, among others. The new route will create opportunities for deeper collaboration and expanded connectivity beyond GRU with LATAM and further complements WestJet’s existing partnerships in Latin America, including a codeshare agreement with Aeroméxico and an interline agreement with Copa Airlines.
Additional quotes
“I am thrilled to see WestJet expand Alberta’s international connectivity with its 100th destination from the Calgary Airport. Non-stop service to São Paulo will strengthen ties between Alberta and Brazil, making it easier for Brazilian visitors to experience all that our province has to offer. This new route not only enhances travel options for Albertans but helps grow our visitor economy and showcase Alberta as a world-class destination.”
Andrew Boitchenko, Alberta Minister of Tourism and Sport
On behalf of the City of Calgary, we extend our warmest congratulations to WestJet on reaching this remarkable milestone. Celebrating 100 destinations from YYC is not only a testament to WestJet’s vision and commitment to Calgary, but a proud moment for our entire community. Every new route launched from our airport opens doors for Calgarians – strengthening tourism, expanding trade, deepening cultural connections, and fueling economic growth across our city.”
Jeromy Farkas, Mayor of Calgary
“This milestone is a powerful statement about Calgary’s growing global relevance. Reaching 100 destinations from YYC reflects WestJet’s long-standing commitment to Calgary and its role in connecting our city to the world. Non-stop access to São Paulo opens an important new market, making it easier for visitors from Brazil and across South America – many of whom are drawn to Canada’s winter and outdoor experiences – to discover Calgary and our region. This connection strengthens our visitor economy, expands business and trade opportunities, and reinforces Calgary’s position as a globally connected gateway.”
Alisha Reynolds, President & CEO of Tourism Calgary
“As the first gateway between South America and Alberta, and WestJet’s 100th destination, this extraordinary milestone strengthens YYC’s status as a growing international hub while supporting higher-value travel including business, meetings and events, visiting friends and relatives, and education. Over time we anticipate it will also create new pathways to grow leisure demand. We appreciate the leadership of WestJet in their continued expansion of international access to Alberta which directly supports the growth of our visitor economy across the province.”
Jon Mamela, Chief Commercial Officer, Travel Alberta
“WestJet’s 100th route marks a remarkable milestone, creating a new gateway for travellers seeking the authentic experiences that define Canada. This expansion opens new opportunities for Western Canada and supports the growth of our winter season. We congratulate WestJet on this achievement and look forward to welcoming more of the world to Canada year-round.”
Marsha Walden, President and CEO of Destination Canada.
“We congratulate WestJet, the Official and Exclusive Airline of the Calgary Stampede, on reaching its 100th destination. This is a significant achievement that strengthens Calgary’s connections to the world. Expanded access like this helps bring people, ideas and opportunity to our city, and we look forward to welcoming visitors who will experience Calgary’s energy, culture and Western hospitality firsthand.”
Joel Cowley, CEO of the Calgary Stampede
“The new route between Calgary and São Paulo, operated by WestJet, is the result of an increasingly favorable environment for the growth of aviation in Brazil. We continue to work to expand international connectivity and attract new airlines and operations to the country. This initiative strengthens the aviation sector, boosts tourism, job creation and income, and showcases to the world Brazil’s tourism potential.”
Silvio Costa Filho, Brazil Minister of Ports and Airports
“We are very excited to welcome WestJet to São Paulo International Airport, as another airline to join Brazil’s largest airport, debuting its operations in the country. Offering three weekly flights to Calgary — an important tourist destination in west-central Canada and gateway to the Rocky Mountains — the airline’s arrival further strengthens our international connectivity and reinforces our commitment to expanding our air network and offering new destination options.”
Claudio Ferreira, Director of Customers and New Business at GRU Airport
“WestJet’s debut in Brazil represents another concrete step in strengthening our connection with the world. This strategic expansion allows more Canadians to access a Brazil of authentic experiences, exuberant nature, and a culture and diversity unlike anywhere else. Brazil has a vibe that cannot be explained, it must be felt. We invite all Canadians to discover that there truly is no place like Brazil.”
Marcelo Freixo, President of the Brazilian Tourism Board (Visit Brasil/Embratur)
“The introduction of flights between GRU and YYC helps position Calgary as a global connector for international trade. We hope this service encourages more direct two-way trade between Canada and Brazil such as South American perishables, industrial parts and pharmaceuticals. We also anticipate a flow of Asian ecommerce items into South America through WestJet’s non-stop service between Calgary and Narita, which further leverages WestJet’s global hub at YYC.”
Julius Mooney, WestJet Director, Cargo
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 the Americas, 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.
Airline will return to a prior seat pitch for economy cabins on recently reconfigured aircraft
CALGARY, AB, Jan. 16, 2026 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced it will change its cabin-configuration approach on the limited portion of its fleet where it densified seating. Following a review of operational data and feedback from guests and WestJetters, the airline will return to its prior standard seat pitch for economy cabins on these recently reconfigured aircraft by removing one row of seats.
WestJet pioneered affordable travel in Canada through a low-cost airline model that was able to offer significantly lower fares to Canadians. Over the past three decades, WestJet has evolved to keep pace with affordability for Canadians, while expanding the airline’s network and product offering.
“WestJet tried seat pitches that are popular with many airlines around the globe as they serve to provide affordable airfares,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group Chief Executive Officer. “As an entrepreneurial airline founded on making air travel affordable to Canadians it’s in our DNA to try new products. At the same time, it is just as important to react quickly if they don’t meet the needs of our guests.”
WestJet had paused reconfiguration plans in December and planned to finalize its evaluation of the new interior layout mid-February; however, the airline has now accelerated the review to address feedback and provide clarity sooner.
The move reflects the airline’s commitment to align product decisions with the needs of the guest, while continuing to invest in reliability, affordability, and a modern onboard experience.
“WestJet was founded as an airline centred on guests,” added von Hoensbroech. “It is in this spirit that we will take what we’ve learned and continue to be cost-disciplined and innovative, while staying true to what our guests and our people expect from us.”
“It’s also important to recognize our WestJetters who showed up for guests with care and professionalism throughout,” said von Hoensbroech.
Aircraft interiors are managed to the highest safety and engineering rigor, with changes requiring multiple phases, starting with an engineering certificate. Once this certificate is received, WestJet can begin to convert all 180-seat aircraft to 174-seat layouts, with timelines for completion still being determined. WestJet is still evaluating other aspects of the new layout, while broader cabin reconfiguration investments, including refreshed interiors, enhanced amenities and modernized design, will continue as part of its commitment to improving the guest experience.
