CALGARY — WestJet has announced plans to designate YYC Calgary International Airport as its single global connecting hub, and will concentrate all of its intercontinental 787 Dreamliner flying in Calgary.
WestJet says the move will unlock opportunities for new routes within North America, to Europe, with the potential to reach Asia.
The announcement comes as the WestJet Group and the Government of Alberta unveil a first-of-its-kind partnership, focused on significantly advancing aviation across the province in support of a stronger economy and a long-lasting, sustainable future for Alberta’s aviation sector.
The goal of the partnership is to make Alberta the most cost-competitive aviation market in Canada, promote the province to the world, drive sustainability, enhance post-secondary programs, and improve skilled labour supply for the aviation sector, says WestJet.
In addition to Calgary, WestJet plans to grow its network across other Canadian communities, strengthening its footprint in the east and in leisure travel across the entire country, consistent with its strategic plan released in June 2022 and its recent purchase announcement of 42 Boeing 737-10 MAX aircraft.
“Alberta has been WestJet’s home for 26 years and today’s historic agreement builds upon an existing foundation of low taxes and investment-friendly policies. As Western Canada’s home team carrier, Alberta is an area where we want to continue to invest to secure WestJet’s thriving future,” said WestJet Group CEO, Alexis von Hoensbroech.
“Through the pandemic and onward, the Government of Alberta prioritized the importance and advancement of aviation and the visitor economy across the province and recognized that aviation is central to the economic diversification of Alberta,” he added.
“This is a blockbuster day for Alberta and a game-changer for our economy. Diversification and economic development are happening right here in Alberta,” said Jason Kenney, Premier of Alberta. “By choosing Calgary as its single global hub, locating its entire Dreamliner fleet here, and increasing its annual seat capacity by 80 per cent, WestJet will massively improve global connectivity, tourism and options for passengers.”
