TORONTO, Sept. 7, 2023 /CNW/ – Porter Airlines today inaugurates its non-stop service between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (YWG). Flights between the provincial capitals begin with two daily round trips.
The Winnipeg-Toronto Pearson route operates with Porter’s new 132-seat Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, featuring a two-by-two configuration with no middle seats and category-leading fuel efficiency. The service also connects to Porter’s Eastern Canada network out of Toronto-Pearson, including Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa and St. John’s.
“Winnipegers can finally enjoy our elevated economy product, which is unmatched by other carriers in the country. Porter offers a full-service, award-winning in-flight experience that is available to every passenger at highly competitive fares,” said Kevin Jackson, executive vice president and chief commercial officer, Porter Airlines. “We are in the process of growing our network throughout North America, providing an increasing number of flight options from east to west.”
Porter’s onboard experience provides every passenger with complimentary beer and wine served in real glassware, a selection of Canadian premium snacks, and free, fast streaming WiFi. The all-inclusive PorterReserve fare includes fresh, healthy meals, and features such as the ability to change flights without a fee, dedicated check-in, extra legroom, and two checked bags. For travellers who want to choose specific features to fit their needs, the PorterClassic fare offers these perks à la carte.
“We’ve been eagerly counting down to Porter Airlines’ inaugural flight to Winnipeg Richardson International Airport as their arrival to our community brings several opportunities for all those who live and work here,” said Nick Hays, President and CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority. “Thanks to this new, exciting partnership, travellers across the region will enjoy greater connectivity and even more choice. On behalf of our entire team, we wish Porter Airlines a warm welcome to Winnipeg and look forward to working with them to grow our relationship for the benefit of the community.”
Porter’s new Winnipeg service will stimulate business and leisure travel across the country. Winnipeg offers a diverse, multicultural experience, ranging from Indigenous culture to the city’s French Quarter. Toronto has a vibrant metropolitan scene where travellers can enjoy numerous cultural events and dining experiences.
Flights are now available for booking on Porter’s website or through travel agencies. Detailed schedules and Porter Escapes vacation packages can be found on www.flyporter.com.
About Porter
Since 2006, Porter Airlines has been elevating the experience of economy air travel for every passenger, providing genuine hospitality with style, care and charm. Porter’s fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft serves a North American network from Eastern Canada. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®. Visit www.flyporter.com or follow @porterairlines on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
New transborder route to enhance business and leisure opportunities across Manitoba while bolstering province’s economic prosperity
WINNIPEG, MB, May 11, 2023 /CNW/ – WestJet today celebrated the announcement of its nonstop transborder service between Winnipeg and Atlanta. The new route will commence on September 6, 2023, operating five times weekly, on a year-round basis. The new route which will unlock direct connectivity between Manitoba to the southeast United States and beyond while furthering the airline’s commitment to boosting economic growth by significantly strengthening the province’s air access.
WestJet’s latest addition to its Winnipeg service was celebrated today at a special event held at Price Industries, with notable guests and partners from across the province including the Honourable Heather Stefanson, Premier of Manitoba; Nick Hays, President and CEO, Winnipeg Airports Authority; Scott Gillingham, Mayor of Winnipeg; and Dayna Spiring, President and CEO of Economic Development Winnipeg.
“It is great to be back in Winnipeg, announcing a new, direct link between Winnipeg and Atlanta. Today’s announcement is the result of continued successful collaboration and partnership between WestJet, the Government of Manitoba, Winnipeg Airports Authority and several other valued partners and stakeholders,” said John Weatherill, WestJet, Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “As the only airline providing direct connectivity between Winnipeg and Atlanta, WestJet’s service between the two cities will stimulate business and leisure travel with broadened access from Winnipeg to the world with one-stop connectivity. Today is also a further testament to our commitment to bolster the economic success of the communities we serve.”
“WestJet’s new service connecting Winnipeg and Atlanta is excellent news for Manitoba and a significant step in strengthening our economic ties with the southeastern United States. I am looking forward to the launch of this flight in September and the opportunity it will bring for residents to travel the world, businesses to grow into new markets, and tourism operators to showcase the beauty of Manitoba,” adds Premier Stefanson.
Route
Start Date
Frequency
Departure
Arrival
Winnipeg – Atlanta
September 6, 2023
5x weekly
9:00 a.m.
13:09 a.m.
Atlanta – Winnipeg
September 6, 2023
5x weekly
14:00 p.m.
16:20 p.m.
Delta codeshare partnership
Guests travelling beyond Atlanta will have access to a broad network and benefits through WestJet’s strong relationship with Delta Air Lines. This includes codeshare flights to over 50 connecting destinations now accessible with only one stop from Winnipeg, the ability to earn and redeem WestJet Rewards on both airlines and top tier frequent flyer benefits through the entire journey.
WestJet guests have access to Delta’s broad network 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.
WestJet’s service announcement between Winnipeg and Atlanta comes less than a year after the airline announced direct service between Manitoba’s capital and Los Angeles. Since beginning service between Winnipeg to Los Angeles in October 2022, WestJet has seen consistently strong demand for transborder travel.
“This is great news for Winnipeg. Having a direct flight to the busiest airport in the world strengthens our global connectivity and opens up new opportunities for tourism, trade, immigration and economic growth,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham.
“Connectivity is integral to our city’s capacity for economic development and this YWG-ATL route is another significant step forward. Economic Development Winnipeg champions strategic initiatives that support Winnipeg’s growth and help our businesses succeed, and we are thankful to our valued partners for sharing our vision. Direct flights to Atlanta will enable important business connections, particularly in agribusiness, advanced manufacturing and creative industries, three of our key industries. I am confident that this flight will usher in economic and cultural opportunities, and as we build stronger connections with our friends in the southern United States, we are excited about the possibilities. We look forward to making the most of this development and to welcoming visitors to our vibrant and dynamic city,” said Dayna Spiring, President & CEO, Economic Development Winnipeg.
“Adding more direct international flights to Winnipeg is a key piece to help us reach our target to double tourism spending by 2030. The new Atlanta route provides another direct connection with our largest international market, which makes it even easier for visitors to access the unparalleled fishing we’re known for or to view the northern lights and polar bears in Churchill,” said Colin Ferguson, President and CEO of Travel Manitoba.
“The addition of this route is a significant milestone when it comes to our work in enhancing the connectivity of the community,” said Winnipeg Airports Authority President & CEO Nick Hays. “Manitobans will now have direct access to one of the world’s top ‘megahub’ airports, making it easier to unlock new business opportunities or discover new destinations. We’re proud to see our longstanding partnership with WestJet grow to benefit everyone who lives and works here.”
“A big thanks to WestJet and Economic Development Winnipeg for making this happen for Winnipeg. The announcement of a YWG-ATL direct flight will have a profound impact on our ability to bring customers to Price Research Center North from around North America and beyond. Known as the world’s busiest airport in terms of passenger traffic, we see this announcement as making travel to Winnipeg materially easier for specifying engineers, contractors, architects and owners,” said Gerry Price, Chairman and CEO, Price Industries Limited
About WestJet
In 27 years of serving Canadians, WestJet has cut airfares in half and increased the flying population in Canada to more than 50 per cent. WestJet launched in 1996 with three aircraft, 250 employees and five destinations, growing over the years to more than 180 aircraft, 14,000 employees and more than 110 destinations in 24 countries.
Winnipeg Airports Authority has unveiled a new vision and mission along with refreshed values and strategic priorities that will collectively guide the organization into the next chapter of its storied history.
WAA shared the new direction during its Annual Public Meeting at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport while, at the same time, providing details of the organization’s new five-year strategic plan. To help produce this all-encompassing corporate strategy, WAA conducted a detailed consultation process with a wide range of community groups throughout last year. The learnings gained from this process were used to structure WAA’s goals, initiatives and targets through 2027.
“As the world continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic, we have a tremendous opportunity to come together to define where we’re heading as an organization,” said WAA President and CEO Nick Hays. “However, we can’t accomplish it alone. It will take partnerships and close collaboration with others to help us deliver on our mission for the benefit of the community. Only by working together will we truly all succeed.”
Vision: Where bold journeys take flight Rooted in the history of Winnipeg and Manitoba as a meeting place and one of bold journeys while focusing on the path and aspirations ahead, this vision reflects WAA’s aspiration for a can-do, open and collaborative culture that pursues and enables collective success for all the communities which WAA serves.
Mission: Connecting communities and partnering to build a sustainable future This mission recognizes the critical importance of connectivity in making Winnipeg and Manitoba an even better place to live, work, and invest, and WAA’s role in enabling this, in partnership with so many others, to build a bright future for all.
Values: Safety | Respect | Teamwork | Inclusion | Excellence WAA’s values set the organizational conditions and environment to pursue its vision and enable it to carry out its mission.
Strategic priorities: People and culture | Financial strength | Air transportation and logistics | Customers and community | Operational excellence | Digitalization | Environment WAA’s 2023-2027 Strategic Plan, along with more information about its new vision, mission, values, and strategic priorities, can be found on WAA.ca.
Also shared during the APM were some of WAA’s highlights from 2022, including the success of the new, non-stop route to Los Angeles offered by WestJet, as well as updates on the organization’s Indigenous reconciliation work and its continued investment in the community.
The Board of Directors of Winnipeg Airports Authority today announced the appointment of Nick Hays as its new President and CEO, effective February 21, 2022.
“The board is pleased that following a global search, Nick will be joining WAA as our next President and CEO,” said Brita Chell, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Nick is a values and purpose-driven leader with an impressive combination of airline, logistics, and international experience that will be instrumental in building on our reputation as a Canadian air cargo hub and developing the airport campus for the future benefit of the region. Our industry has seen incredible challenges since the start of the pandemic, and we need the next leader to position us for success in both the short and long-term. The board is confident Nick is that leader.”
Mr. Hays joins WAA from his most recent role as Vice President Canada at Vanderlande Industries, a global leader in logistic process automation at airports. Prior to that, he held a senior advisory role with PricewaterhouseCoopers’ transportation and logistics practice. Mr. Hays also spent eleven years with Cathay Pacific Airways and its parent company the Swire Group, working in Hong Kong, Auckland, Tokyo, and finally Vancouver where he was Cathay Pacific’s Vice President, Canada.
“I look forward to leading the talented team at WAA and joining a company that has been named one of Manitoba’s Top Employers for the last ten years,” said Mr. Hays. “There is no doubt our industry is facing unprecedented challenges due to COVID-19, but I am excited for the opportunities ahead and know WAA has the right vision and values to move the organization forward in support of our community, customers and stakeholders. I have been privileged to turn my lifelong passion for aviation into a career, and I cannot think of a better way to fuel that passion than as President and CEO of WAA.”
WAA conducted an executive search following long-time President and CEO Barry Rempel advising the Board of his retirement after almost 20 years at WAA. Mr. Rempel will continue in his role until February 21, 2022, to facilitate the transition.
“I want to thank Barry for his service to WAA and, in particular, his guidance and steady hand during the greatest challenge our industry has faced,” said Ms. Chell. “Over his 20 years leading WAA, the airport campus has been transformed with new logistics partners, new airlines, and of course, a new terminal building. Our community is better off for Barry’s efforts.”
Airline celebrates return of its international departures from Winnipeg Richardson International Airport and brings back popular sun flights to region
WINNIPEG, MB, Nov. 1, 2021 /CNW/ – Today, Swoop resumed international flight operations at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport with the departure of flight WO 728 bound for Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. The ultra-low-cost carrier is set to bring even more sun service to Winnipeg with the return of non-stop flights to Puerto Vallarta on November 4, 2021 and launch of service to new destinations including Cancun on December 3, 2021 and Orlando (Sanford) on December 11, 2021.
To celebrate the return of Swoop’s sun and fun destinations, between now and November 8, 2021, Winnipeg travellers can use the promo code GET50 to receive 50% off base fares from Winnipeg to Phoenix-Mesa, Orlando (Sanford), Puerto Vallarta and Cancun†.
“We are extremely proud to be the first Canadian airline to resume international operations out of Winnipeg,” said Charles Duncan, President of Swoop. “The return of our non-stop service to popular sun destinations, like Phoenix-Mesa plays an important role in our commitment to meeting the demand for ultra-low-cost fares in Winnipeg, while supporting the rebound of air travel in the region.”
Today’s departure signals a significant milestone for Swoop and Winnipeg Airport Authority, with flight WO 728 marking the first international departure from Winnipeg to a sun destination since the onset of the pandemic.
“Swoop reintroducing non-stop flights between Winnipeg and Phoenix-Mesa represents an important milestone for our community,” said Barry Rempel, President and CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority. “The return of this service marks the first flights to a winter sun destination available out of Winnipeg Richardson International Airport since the onset of the pandemic. We are excited to see this popular route return to help meet demand within the Winnipeg market and kickstart the winter travel season at the airport.”
†GET50 Terms and Conditions:
Book by November 8, 2021 (11:59 p.m. MT) | Travel between November 2, 2021 and December 16, 2022. | Eligible markets: Winnipeg to the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean. | Limit of 100 redemptions. | Fares are not guaranteed until payment is made and accepted. | Flights are subject to availability and may not operate on all days. | Non-refundable. | Promo code applicable on new, web bookings only. | One promo code per booking. | Cannot be combined with any other promotion or offer. | Discount applicable to base fare only. Not applicable on taxes, fees, or ancillary products and services. | Learn more about baggage and optional fees at www.FlySwoop.com/Optional-Services-and-Fees.
To learn more about Swoop and find ultra-low fare flights to destinations in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico, please visit FlySwoop.com. Find out more on how Swoop is ensuring a safe and healthy travel experience at FlySwoop.com/traveller-safety.
About Swoop Swoop is on a mission to make travel more affordable and accessible for all Canadians. Established in 2018 as an independent subsidiary of the WestJet Group of Companies, Swoop is Canada’s ultra-not-expensive airline. Offering scheduled service to destinations in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, Swoop’s unbundled fares put travellers in control of purchasing only the products and services they desire.
Swoop’s modern fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, equipped with in-seat power and Wi-Fi connectivity has safely carried more than 3 million travellers in three years of operation. FlySwoop.com allows travellers to quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, track flights and access Wi-Fi service in-flight.
Most extensive domestic schedule supports Canada’s tourism and hospitality sector
Includes three new routes, re-established routes plus Air Canada Signature Class and Premium Economy Class cabins on select transcontinental routes
New refund policy gives additional peace of mind
MONTREAL, June 15, 2021 /CNW Telbec/ – Air Canada’s domestic peak summer schedule beginning at the end of June has been developed to advance the country’s economic recovery and support Canada’s tourism and hospitality businesses during the important summer period. Three new domestic Canada routes, service to 50 Canadian airports, the re-establishment of select regional routes, and wide-body aircraft featuring Air Canada Signature Class and Premium Economy Class on select transcontinental routes are included. Seats with attractive pricing in all cabins are available for purchase now at aircanada.com, via the Air Canada App, Air Canada’s Contact Centres and travel agencies.
“With Canada’s ongoing vaccine roll-out acceleration together with various provincial governments’ reopening plans that include travel, this summer is looking brighter. As customers are ready to travel, Air Canada is taking a leadership position to support our partners in Canada’s tourism and hospitality sector with service to 50 destinations from coast to coast, the re-start of regional services and new, non-stop flights,” said Mark Galardo, Senior Vice President, Network Planning and Revenue Management at Air Canada.
“We are especially proud that our new state-of-the-art, Canadian-manufactured Airbus A220 aircraft will be operating across Canada. With our industry-leading CleanCare+ bio-safety protocols, promotional fares including for our premium cabins, compelling Aeroplan opportunities, and our new refund policy offering additional peace of mind, customers can book Air Canada with confidence. We look forward to welcoming you onboard when you’re ready to fly,” concluded Mr. Galardo.
Air Canada’s new refund policy provides customers an option for a refund to the original form of payment in instances where Air Canada cancels their flight or reschedules the departure time by more than three hours, irrespective of the reason. Air Canada customers will also have the option of accepting an Air Canada Travel Voucher or Aeroplan points with a 65% bonus. Normal fare rules will apply when customers make voluntary changes to non-affected flights.
New route details:
Route
Frequency
Aircraft
Effective
Montreal-Deer Lake
Daily
CRJ900
Jul 1, 2021
Montreal-Kelowna
3x Weekly July4x Weekly Aug
Airbus A220
June 26, 2021
Montreal-Saskatoon-Regina
Daily
CRJ900
Aug 1, 2021
Resumption of services:
Airport Station
Route
Effective
Frequency
Gander
Gander – Halifax
Jun 29
3x Weekly
Gander – Toronto
Jul 2
5x Weekly
St. John’s
St. John’s – Toronto
Jun 19
Daily
Goose Bay
Goose Bay – St. John’s
Jun 29
3x Weekly
Deer Lake
Deer Lake – Halifax
Aug 1
5x Weekly
Halifax
Halifax – Calgary
Aug 1
5x Weekly
Sydney
Sydney – Toronto
Jun 26
3x Weekly
Sydney – Montreal
Aug 1
Daily
Charlottetown
Charlottetown – Toronto
Jun 18
4x Weekly
Saint John
Saint John – Montreal
Jun 30
3x Weekly
Saint John – Toronto
Jul 2
4x Weekly
Fredericton
Fredericton – Montreal
Jun 29
Daily
Fredericton – Toronto
Jul 1
5x Weekly
Bathurst
Bathurst – Montreal
Jun 27
3x Weekly
Quebec City
Quebec City – Toronto
Jun 19
1x Daily
Ottawa
Ottawa – Calgary
Jul 2
Daily
Ottawa – Edmonton
Aug 1
2x Weekly
North Bay
North Bay – Toronto
Jun 28
3x Weekly
Fort McMurray
Fort McMurray – Toronto
July 1
2x Weekly
Winnipeg
Winnipeg – Calgary
Jun 20
6x weekly
Winnipeg – Montreal
Aug 1
Daily
Regina
Regina – Calgary
Jul 1
5x Weekly
Saskatoon
Saskatoon – Calgary
Jul 2
5x Weekly
Kamloops
Kamloops – Vancouver
Jun 29
4x Weekly
Kamloops – Calgary
Jun 28
4x Weekly
Comox
Comox – Vancouver
Jun 30
3x Weekly
Nanaimo
Nanaimo – Toronto
Jul 4
1x Weekly
Nanaimo – Calgary
Jul 2
5x weekly
Prince Rupert
Prince Rupert – Vancouver
Jun 25
3x Weekly
Penticton
Penticton – Vancouver
Jun 29
4x Weekly
Sandspit
Sandspit – Vancouver
Jun 23
3x Weekly
Victoria
Montreal – Victoria
Jun 19
3x Weekly
Toronto – Victoria
Jun 19
4x Weekly
Calgary – Victoria
Jun 21
4x Weekly
Castlegar
Castlegar – Vancouver
Jun 28
3x Weekly
Kelowna
Kelowna Toronto
Jun 18
4x Weekly
Yellowknife
Yellowknife – Calgary
Jun 30
3x Weekly
Air Canada is also providing connectivity to five additional regional communities through interline agreements with third party regional carriers: Wabush, Baie Comeau, Gaspe, Mont Joli, and Val d’Or.
Air Canada’s commercial schedule may be adjusted as required based on the COVID-19 trajectory and government restrictions.
About Air Canada
Air Canada is Canada’s largest domestic and international airline, and in 2020 was among the top 20 largest airlines in the world. It is Canada’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Air Canada is the only international network carrier in North America to receive a Four-Star ranking according to independent U.K. research firm Skytrax. In 2020, Air Canada was named Global Traveler’s Best Airline in North America for the second straight year. In January 2021, Air Canada received APEX’s Diamond Status Certification for the Air Canada CleanCare+ biosafety program for managing COVID-19, the only airline in Canada to attain the highest APEX ranking. Air Canada has also committed to a net zero emissions goal from all global operations by 2050.
