Swoop Announces Major Expansion and Investment in Edmonton and Brings Nine New Routes to Alberta Capital

• Ultra-low fare airline announces its largest expansion ever with eight new domestic routes as part of summer schedule and new non-stop service to Palm Springs
• Brings enhanced connectivity to Atlantic Canada with first ever non-stop flights from Edmonton to New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island and new non-stops to Nova Scotia
• Reaffirms commitment to city by naming its newest aircraft #Edmonton

Tom Ruth, President and CEO of Edmonton International Airport welcomes Swoop’s newest aircraft #Edmonton (CNW Group/Swoop)

EDMONTON, AB, Nov. 15, 2021 /CNW/ – Today, Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low fare airline, reaffirmed its commitment to the Edmonton Metropolitan Region with the announcement of new service to one U.S. and eight domestic destinations from its Western Canadian base. The airline’s significant new investments were celebrated this morning alongside the unveiling of Swoop’s newest aircraft, which will fly with the name #Edmonton.

The airline’s growth will see Swoop’s flight capacity in Alberta’s capital increase 76% compared to pre-pandemic levels, supporting the creation of 140 additional direct and spin-off jobs and an anticipated $120M of economic output activityⁱ in 2022.

From left to right (Juanita Marois, CEO, Métis Crossing, Tom Ruth, President & CEO, Edmonton International Airport, Charles Duncan, President of Swoop, Rajan Sawhney, Alberta Minister of Transportation, Rick Smith, Deputy Mayor of Leduc County, Tim Cartmell, City Councillor, City of Edmonton) (CNW Group/Swoop)

“This is a major milestone for Swoop as we underscore our commitment to leading the way for ultra-low fare air travel in Canada and reaffirm our position as the airline with the most destinations from Edmonton,” said Charles Duncan, President of Swoop. “With a strong focus on growth and Edmonton as our partner, we will continue to provide our travellers with more non-stop flights and ultra-low fares while supporting the recovery of Canada’s travel and tourism economy.”

New non-stop flights to eight Canadian cities 

The addition of eight new Canadian destinations to Swoop’s summer schedule will see non-stop service from Edmonton to Charlottetown, Comox, Halifax, Kelowna, Moncton, Ottawa, Regina and Saskatoon. Swoop will be the first carrier to bring non-stop connectivity from Edmonton International Airport to Charlottetown and Moncton and the airline’s summer schedule will also see the restoration of service to London, Ont. 

Hello, Palm Springs!

Beginning December 16, Swoop’s transborder presence is growing from Edmonton with the addition of new service to Palm Springs. The scheduled non-stop service to Palm Springs will operate twice weekly.

#Edmonton

To commemorate its history and commitment to Edmonton, Swoop celebrated the naming of its newest aircraft #Edmonton alongside key government leaders and business stakeholders at Edmonton International Airport.

Following the event, the Boeing 737-800 aircraft entered service for the operation of flight WO 770 departing Edmonton at 12:00 local time, en route to Phoenix (Mesa), Arizona with a scheduled arrival of 3:30 PM local time. Edmontonians can expect to see #Edmonton operating several of Swoop’s newly announced routes.

Full schedule details of Swoop’s service from Edmonton can be found below.

 Domestic Routes

Route	Peak Weekly Frequency	Start Date	Total one- way fare (CAD) †	Base Fare (CAD)	Taxes and Fees (CAD)
Edmonton – Halifax*	5x weekly	May 1, 2022	$159	$104.35	$54.65
Edmonton – Charlottetown*	2x weekly	June 16, 2022	$159	$104.35	$54.65
Edmonton – Kelowna*	7x weekly	May 5, 2022	$49	$1.59	$47.41
Edmonton – Ottawa*	4x weekly	April 25, 2022	$59	$9.12	$49.88
Edmonton – Comox*	3x weekly	June 9, 2022	$49	$1.59	$47.41
Edmonton – Regina*	2x weekly	June 16. 2022	$49	$1.59	$47.41
Edmonton – Saskatoon*	2x weekly	June 14, 2022	$49	$1.59	$47.41
Edmonton – Moncton*	2x weekly	June 17, 2022	$159	$104.35	$54.65
Edmonton – London	3x weekly	June 2, 2022	$59	$9.11	$49.88
Edmonton – Winnipeg	4x weekly	Continuing	$160	$105.30	$54.69
Edmonton – Toronto	14x weekly	Continuing	$59	$9.12	$49.88
Edmonton – Hamilton	7x weekly	Continuing	$60	$10.06	$49.94
Edmonton – Abbotsford	7x weekly	Continuing	$49	$1.59	$47.41
Edmonton – Victoria	7x weekly	Continuing	$60	$12.06	$47.94

†Special introductory fares are limited quantity. Book by November 29, 2021 for travel between May 2 and June 22, 2022.

Transborder Routes

Route	Peak Weekly Frequency	Start Date	Total one- way fare (CAD) †	Base Fare (CAD)	Taxes and Fees (CAD)
Edmonton – Las Vegas	7x weekly	Continuing	$99	$8.84	$90.16
Edmonton – Phoenix (Mesa)	1x weekly	Continuing	$110	$18.36	$91.63

† Book by November 29, 2021 for travel between May 2 and June 22, 2022.

New Service to Palm Springs

Route	Peak Weekly Frequency	Start Date	Total one- way fare (CAD) †	Base Fare (CAD)	Taxes and Fees (CAD)
Edmonton – Palm Springs*	2x Weekly	December 16, 2021	$99	$7.89	$91.11

†Special introductory fares are limited quantity. Book by November 29, 2021 for travel between January 10 and February 19, 2022.

Supporting Quotes

“Swoop’s commitment to Edmonton is a clear sign that there is confidence in Alberta’s Recovery Plan. The new routes across Canada and to Palm Springs open up exciting opportunities for tourism and business.”

• Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Transportation

“I want to thank Swoop for supporting the Edmonton Metropolitan Region. Having increased connections across Canada and beyond through Edmonton International Airport is vital for our region. As a major city contributing to Alberta’s recovery, strong air service will help us create jobs and grow our economy.”

• Amarjeet Sohi, Mayor of Edmonton

“Next time you hear a plane passing over, look up, look way up, and you just might see #Edmonton flying by. Thank you Swoop for naming one of your fleet after our great community, we’re honoured you will help carry the name Edmonton across Canada and North America. Your dedication to the Edmonton Metropolitan Region is helping bring more low-cost travel options for our passengers and we can’t wait for these new destinations to start.”

• Tom Ruth, President and CEO, Edmonton International Airport

To learn more about Swoop please visit FlySwoop.com and for information on how Swoop is ensuring a safe and healthy travel experience visit 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.     

ⁱ Source: Swoop 2022 Edmonton International Airport Economic Impacts performed by the Chris Lowe Group

Government of Canada announces additional Canadian airports accepting international passenger flights

OTTAWA, ON, Nov. 2, 2021 /CNW/ – The Government of Canada is prioritizing the health and safety of all people in Canada by continuing to take a risk-based and measured approach to re-opening the border. Canada’s phased approach to easing border measures is informed by the available data and scientific evidence, including the vaccination rate of Canadians, and the improving epidemiological situation.

The strict vaccine travel requirements that will be fully phased in by November 30, and the pan-Canadian proof of vaccination credential now available for travel, are creating opportunities for safe travel for vaccinated Canadians.

As a next step in increasing travel opportunities, Transport Canada is easing the restriction on international flight arrivals. The department is expanding the scope of the existing Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) that currently directs international passenger flights into 10 Canadian airports.

Effective on November 30, 2021, international flights carrying passengers will be permitted to land at the following additional Canadian airports:

• St. John’s International
• John C. Munro Hamilton International
• Region of Waterloo International
• Regina International
• Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International
• Kelowna International
• Abbotsford International
• Victoria International

These airports, in cooperation with the Public Health Agency of Canada, the Canada Border Services Agency and Transport Canada, are working to implement the measures necessary to start safely welcoming international passengers as of November 30.

Consideration will be given to adding additional airports as conditions dictate, based on demand, operational capacity, the epidemiological situation in Canada, and recommendations from the Public Health Agency of Canada.

The Government of Canada continues to work closely with airports and aviation operators to ensure appropriate procedures are put in place to protect travellers and workers.

Border and public health measures remain subject to change as the epidemiological situation evolves.

Quote

“Increased vaccination levels have allowed us to safely re-open these additional Canadian airports to international passenger flights. This measure will help ensure that travellers are able to access more regional airports for their international travels this winter, while continuing to support the Government of Canada’s measured approach to re-opening our border.”

The Honourable Omar Alghabra
Minister of Transport

Quick Facts

• The 10 Canadian airports currently accepting international flights are: Halifax Stanfield International, Québec City Jean Lesage International, Montréal-Trudeau International, Ottawa/Macdonald–Cartier International, Toronto Pearson International, Billy Bishop Toronto City Centre, Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International, Edmonton International, Calgary International, and Vancouver International.

Associated Links

• COVID-19: Travel, testing, and borders
• COVID-19 measures, updates, and guidance for aviation
• COVID-19: Open marine and air ports of entries and temporary service reductions

Transport Canada is online at www.tc.gc.ca. Subscribe to e-news or stay connected through Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram to keep up to date on the latest from Transport Canada.

Flair Airlines grows Winnipeg service with flights to Regina and Saskatoon

Service beginning in Spring 2022 key to Flair’s strategy to delight Saskatchewan and Manitoba passengers with low fares

Edmonton, Alberta, Oct. 28, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Flair Airlines, Canada’s only independent ultra low-cost carrier (ULCC), continues to grow its 2022 schedule with the addition of twice weekly nonstop service between Winnipeg and Regina as well as Winnipeg and Saskatoon. The new routes are part of Flair’s unprecedented growth as the airline expands its fleet to 16 aircraft and creates new affordable connections across North America.

“Low fare travel has arrived for the Prairies and we are excited to connect more families and travelers in Manitoba and Saskatchewan,” said Stephen Jones, President and CEO, Flair Airlines. “Connecting Regina and Saskatoon to Winnipeg with sustainably low fares is an important step in Flair’s growth and we know our customers will love the service.”

“We eagerly anticipate the arrival of these new Flair service offerings between Winnipeg and Regina/Saskatoon at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport,” said Barry Rempel, President and CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority. “Our partnership with Flair is growing and their efforts to provide Manitobans with more convenient, low-cost domestic travel options are playing a critical role in quickly restoring the affordable, wide-ranging air services our community relies upon to sustain itself and grow.”

“Skyxe is thrilled with the continued expansion of our relationship with Flair Airlines. Winnipeg is a key domestic market for Saskatoon which will benefit from increased air service opportunities for our guests. The addition of Flair’s low cost air service option will provide residents of Saskatchewan the ability to visit friends and family in Winnipeg conveniently and more frequently,” said Stephen Maybury, President & CEO, Skyxe Saskatoon Airport.

“We are thrilled to see Flair Airlines introduce this new route between Regina and Winnipeg. Travelers in southern Saskatchewan want connections between these two cities. This is a fantastic addition from Flair to build on the other amazing Canadian cities they are already serving out of YQR,” said James Bogusz, President and CEO, Regina Airport Authority.

Flair is adding new 737 MAX aircraft to its fleet in 2022 as it strives to become Canada’s greenest and most sustainable airline. The new aircraft deliver fuel savings and reduce the airline’s CO2 emissions by 14%. Flair recently announced a 33 percent increase in its fleet and additional routes within Canada and to the US.

Fares on the new routes will start at $49 CAD one-way for both the Winnipeg-Regina and Winnipeg-Saskatoon routes, including taxes and fees. All routes and schedule details can be viewed at https://www.flyflair.com.

About Flair Airlines

Flair Airlines is Canada’s only independent Ultra Low-Cost Carrier (ULCC) and is on a mission to liberate the lives of Canadians by providing affordable air travel that connects them to the people and experiences they love. With an expanding fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft, Flair is growing to serve 28 cities across Canada and the U.S. For more information, please visit http://www.flyflair.com.

New Routes

• Winnipeg – Regina (YWG-YQR) – 2x weekly starting April 14, 2022
• Winnipeg – Saskatoon (YWG-YXE) – 2x weekly starting April 16, 2022

Recently Announced & Current Winnipeg, Saskatoon & Regina Routes

• Regina – Edmonton (YQR-YEG) – 2x weekly starting April 14, 2022
• Regina – Toronto (YQR-YYZ) – 2x weekly ongoing
• Regina – Vancouver (YQR-YVR) – 2x weekly resumes March 28, 2022
• Saskatoon – Edmonton (YXE-YEG) – 2x weekly starting April 16, 2022
• Saskatoon – Toronto (YXE-YYZ) – 2x weekly ongoing
• Winnipeg – Abbotsford (YWG-YXX) – 2x weekly resumes December 16, 2021
• Winnipeg – Calgary (YWG-YYC) – 2x weekly ongoing
• Winnipeg – Edmonton (YWG-YEG) – 3x weekly starting April 15, 2022
• Winnipeg – Waterloo (YWG-YKF) – 2-3x weekly ongoing
• Winnipeg – Ottawa (YWG-YOW) – 2x weekly ongoing
• Winnipeg – Toronto (YWG-YYZ) – 2-6x weekly ongoing
• Winnipeg – Vancouver (YWG-YVR) – 2-4x weekly ongoing

Seven regional airports across the Prairies receiving more than $8 million to maintain regional connectivity and jobs

Targeted Government of Canada support will be provided by Prairies Economic Development Canada

EDMONTON, AB, Aug. 13, 2021 /CNW/ – Regional air transportation is crucial to local economic growth, the movement of goods and the connectivity of Canadians across the country. The pandemic has had major impacts on regional air transportation ecosystems, affecting communities and local businesses from coast to coast to coast.

The Government of Canada’s Regional Air Transportation Initiative (RATI), launched in March 2021, fosters access to air transportation and supports regional ecosystems. In particular, it enables regional air carriers and airports to remain operational in these difficult times and to continue contributing to regional economic growth, while adapting to new post-COVID-19 realities and requirements.

Prairie airports to benefit from funding

With this in mind, Terry Duguid, Parliamentary Secretary to the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, announced up to $8,456,930 in RATI funding for seven regional airports in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. This funding will enable these airports to overcome challenges that were brought on by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Regional air transportation is key to the economic development of communities and businesses across Canada. Since it helps draw Canadians to rural and remote communities to work and raise their families, while also providing reliable connectivity with urban centres, it plays a crucial role in a just, inclusive recovery for all, throughout the country.

Quotes

“It is important to protect our regional air transportation ecosystems for the thousands of workers employed by this sector and for the many businesses and communities that depend on it. We know that air connectivity to all regions is essential to healthy, inclusive economic growth, and supporting it is part of our plan to build back a stronger, more resilient economy.” 
     – The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada

“Regional airports and infrastructure are important to residents and businesses across the Prairies. They play a critical role for the economy as people depend on them for both personal and business travel and to access services in larger centres. This funding will go a long way to getting these assets back on their feet as Canada begins to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and we reopen our economy.” 
     – Terry Duguid, Parliamentary Secretary to the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada and to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change (Canada Water Agency)

Projects being funded:

Recipient	Location	Funding
City of Lloydminster	Lloydminster, AB	up to $   348,000
Grande Prairie Airport Commission	Grande Prairie, AB	up to $1,415,200
Regina Airport Authority	Regina, SK	up to $2,464,000
Saskatoon Airport Authority	Saskatoon, SK	up to $2,664,000
City of Brandon	Brandon, MB	up to $   455,750
City of Flin Flon	Flin Flon, MB	up to $   527,160
Thompson Regional Airport Authority	Thompson, MB	up to $   582,820
Total Funding	up to $8,456,930

Quick facts

• RATI, administered by the regional development agencies (RDAs), has a national budget of $206 million.
• The Initiative supports regional air ecosystems—which include regional air carriers and airports, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises and non-profit organizations—in developing and implementing enhanced services for improved regional connectivity.
• RATI complements measures implemented by Transport Canada.

Associated links

• Prairies Economic Development Canada
• Regional Air Transportation Initiative
• Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan

Government of Canada supporting the Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport with new funding

SASKATOON, SK, Aug. 13, 2021 /CNW/ – Helping airports mitigate the financial impact of the global pandemic is part of the Government of Canada’s strategy to ensure that our air transportation system provides Canadians with efficient and affordable air travel. Investments in airport infrastructure are crucial to maintain safety, security, and connectivity for travellers, workers, and communities.

Today, the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, and the Minister and Special Representative for the Prairies, the Honourable Jim Carr, announced close to $13.8 million to help the Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport recover from the effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic and to support continued air services and important safety-related infrastructure projects at the airport.

The Government of Canada is providing the Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport with $10.9 million from Transport Canada’s Airport Critical Infrastructure Program for the rehabilitation of the primary runway and apron pavement surfaces, the installation of new LED runway edge lights, and the replacement of select storm drains.

In addition to the funding for the critical infrastructure projects, the Government of Canada is also providing the Airport with over $2.8 million from Transport Canada’s Airport Relief Fund to help it maintain continued airport operations and essential air services for residents and workers in Saskatoon and surrounding communities.

Quotes

“Canada’s airports are major contributors to our economy and play a crucial role in sustaining the social and economic well-being of our communities. This financial support will ensure that, as Canada works towards recovery and travel restart post pandemic, the Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport will be able to provide regional accessibility, and safe, reliable, and efficient air services for residents and workers in Saskatoon and its surrounding communities.”

The Honourable Omar Alghabra
Minister of Transport

“The Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport is an important transportation hub not just for the Saskatoon area, but for much of central Saskatchewan. It connects us with family and friends, helps us discover new destinations, and is a pivotal trade corridor for many Saskatoon businesses. This funding will enhance airport safety for travellers, air crews, and airport workers, while supporting jobs and the regional economy.”  

The Honourable Jim Carr
Minister and Special Representative for the Prairies

“The Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport contributes $1.25 billion annually to the local economy, driving visitation, trade, and commerce, as well as being the primary gateway to northern Saskatchewan. Faced with significant operating losses in 2020 and 2021 due to the global pandemic, this welcome federal funding ensures the airport is able to complete critical planned infrastructure improvements, enhance operational measures, and continue to meet the highest standards for safety and security to serve our airlines, partners, and guests.”

Stephen Maybury
President and CEO
Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport

Quick Facts

• The Airport Critical Infrastructure Program, launched in May 2021, will distribute $489.6 million in funding over five years to airports for eligible infrastructure projects related to safety, security or connectivity to mass transit systems.
• The federal contribution for the Airport Critical Infrastructure Program projects will be up to 50% of total eligible expenditures of the projects, up to a maximum contribution of $10,902,748. The Airport will provide the remaining funding for the projects.
• The Airport Relief Fund, launched in May 2021, will provide $64.8 million in funding in 2021-2022 for airports whose 2019 revenues were less than $250 million.
• The amount of funding to each targeted eligible Airport Relief Fund recipient was calculated using a tiered formula-based approach, based on 2019 revenues.
• Funding provided from the Airport Relief Fund must be used to cover activities that are directly related to the airport’s operations to ensure that the airport remains open to travellers and surrounding communities.
• First introduced in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Airport Critical Infrastructure Program and the Airport Relief Fund are part of a federal stimulus recovery plan designed to build a stronger, more inclusive and more resilient economy post-COVID-19.

Related Product

• Backgrounder: Airport Critical Infrastructure Program
• Backgrounder: Airport Relief Fund

Associated Link

• Minister of Transport introduces new funding programs to support Canada’s airports

Transport Canada is online at www.tc.gc.ca.

More domestic flights returning to Okanagan with B.C. again welcoming Canadian travellers

From CBC News – link to source story

Despite loosened travel restrictions, it’s still uncertain when international flights will return to Kelowna

Winston Szeto · CBC News · Jul 06, 2021

The Kelowna International Airport is welcoming back domestic flights under the third phase of B.C.’s restart plan, which allows British Columbians to travel across the country for recreational purposes. (YLW)

The major airport serving B.C.’s Okanagan region has seen far more flights coming and going since the reopening of the province, but it’s still unknown when international flights will return. 

Since the province entered the third phase of its reopening plan on July 1, British Columbians have been able to travel across the country for recreational purposes. Before that, they could fly to and from Kelowna International Airport (YLW), but were advised not to unless it was essential travel. 

Sam Samaddar, director of YLW, says travellers can now fly to 14 Canadian destinations from Kelowna, with Montreal, Ottawa, Hamilton, Kitchener, Ont., Regina and Saskatoon recently added to the list. 

Due to international travel restrictions, the Kelowna airport hasn’t yet resumed operation of routes to Seattle, Cancun, Los Cabos, and Varadero, which accounted for up to 30 per cent of the airport’s traffic before the pandemic. 

In 2019, two million passengers passed through Kelowna International Airport, making it one of the busiest airports in the country. 

Samaddar says he cannot predict when the airport will provide international air services again. 

“We have international flights only designated to come into … the four major airports in the country, so we’re not even allowed to accept international flights at this point,” he said Monday to Dominika Lirette, guest host of CBC’s Daybreak South.

Under the federal government’s travel restrictions, international flights can only land in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal. Foreign non-essential air travellers are still prohibited from entering Canada, and Canadians are still discouraged from travelling overseas for non-essential purposes.

International flights are currently allowed to land in four Canadian airports only, including Vancouver International Airport in Richmond, B.C. (Ben Nelms/CBC)

The travel restrictions between Canada and the United States preventing all non-essential trips are to remain in place until at least July 21.

But international border restrictions started to loosen on Monday. Canadians and permanent residents who have received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine approved for use in Canada are now able to forgo the 14-day quarantine, which has been a requirement since March of last year. 

Samaddar says even if Canada reopens borders with the United States and other countries, it may take years before international business travellers return.

“Businesses are having to recover themselves and they’re also trying to understand the landscape before they send their staff abroad or internationally to do business or in person,” he said. “They don’t want to risk their staff … putting them in an environment where they may not know what the outcome is in terms of the safety of their employees.”

With files from Daybreak South

WestJet launches new routes to multiple Vancouver Island airports

From CHEK News – link to source story – thanks to CW

July 1, 2021 NICHOLAS PESCOD/CHEK NEWS

NICHOLAS PESCOD/CHEK NEWS

WestJet recently launched four new non-stop flights from three Vancouver Island airports and restored previously cancelled service on six other Island routes.

As travel restrictions continue to loosen across the province, the nation’s second-largest airline has launched four new routes to airports across Vancouver Island.

WestJet recently launched four new non-stop flights from three Vancouver Island airports and restored previously cancelled service on six other Island routes.

The new direct routes are Comox–Toronto, Victoria–Ottawa, Victoria–Saskatoon, and Victoria–Winnipeg.

WestJet has also restored service on its Comox–Edmonton, Comox–Vancouver, Nanaimo–Vancouver, Victoria–Toronto, and Victoria–Kelowna routes, which they had cancelled due to the pandemic.

The airline also brought back long-desired direct flights between Nanaimo and Edmonton, following a five-year hiatus.

All of the routes are now in operation, with Victoria–Toronto flights resuming June 30.

“We have been talking to a lot of people and we are listening to what investments Vancouver Island wants and needs and all of these routes have been planned in advance,” Morgan Bell, media spokesperson for WestJet, told CHEK News. “It’s exciting that they are now going to fully take flight.”

With British Columbia reopening and the demand for domestic travel slowly increasing, Bell says it’s only natural for the company to not only restore cancelled routes but launch new ones.

“Canadians are going to travel domestically this summer and inbound tourism to Vancouver Island is important,” Bell explained. “While I know everybody loves to stay on Vancouver Island, there are also people from Vancouver Island that want to get back out and connect with friends and family across the country and other places.”

Comox gets direct flights to Toronto, Edmonton flights return to Nanaimo

Perhaps the most eye-catching of the new routes is the non-stop service between Comox and Toronto, which operates on a weekly basis — at least for now.

“The hope is that as more and more people begin flying again and these flights get full, we’ll add more service,” said Bell.

The new route launched June 26 — just as Air Canada restarted non-stop service between Canada’s most populated city and nearby Nanaimo — and brings the total number of airports on Vancouver Island with direct Toronto flights to three.

“It’s going to be great to see a major city like Toronto connect directly into Comox,” said Bell.

Another notable route is Nanaimo to Edmonton, which began operations on June 25 and runs twice a week. Although it was listed as a new route in the company’s press release, WestJet briefly operated non-stop flights between the two cities in early 2016 but cancelled them after only three months due to the economic downturn in Alberta.

Bell says WestJet is thrilled to restart service after more than five years, explaining that there has been no shortage of demand for service between the two regions.

“There’s so much interest in northern Alberta that’s coming through the Edmonton airport from Nanaimo, and also guests from Vancouver Island going into Edmonton,” she said. “There are pretty strong connections between the two cities, so it’s great to see that route come back.”

While the restoration of old routes and the addition of new routes, may seem like a lot, Bell says WestJet is still operating well below pre-pandemic levels.

“We’re still at 60 per cent reduction in terms of capacity from what would have been 2019. In July 2019, we were operating about 600 flights a day, and this July, we’re only looking at about 300,” she said. “We still have a really long way to go.”

Airport, flying experience will be different amid the pandemic

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With an increasing number of people becoming comfortable with the idea of getting on a plane after more than a year on the ground, Bell says those who are planning on taking to the skies should be prepared for some changes.

“It’s definitely very different. I took my first flight today in six months, and it felt very different,” she said.

That’s because airports have implemented new rules and safety measures throughout the pandemic such as mandatory mask-wearing, dedicated entrance and exit flow, and increased cleaning throughout terminals. Victoria International Airport, for example, is limiting access to its terminal building to just passengers with tickets, though there are some exceptions.

“While we’re restoring all this and people are excited to get on the move again, we also understand that it’s going to be a new experience for them,” said Bell. “I mean, people haven’t been in an airport for potentially 18 months.”

“I think it’s going to be a good experience, but it’s also going to be something that people need to prepare for and be ready for.”

As a result, Bell suggests people read all the rules and travel requirements well before their flight and arrive at the airport even earlier than the recommended 90 minutes prior to departure.

“We’re still in the pandemic, there are new rules, and there are different screening points and security points to get through,” she said. “So, I would just always say give yourself extra time and just be willing and flexible to adapt to any changes that come your way.”

WestJet reconnecting routes across British Columbia

Airline to restart eight routes and inaugurate new flights between nine communitiesby early July

CALGARY, AB, June 25, 2021 /CNW/ – WestJet is further restoring British Columbia’s domestic and interprovincial connectivity with the restart of eight routes to and from destinations across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. The airline is also set to inaugurate 10 new routes by July 5, 2021. Full schedule details and resumption dates are outlined below.

“We continue to work towards the restoration of our pre-COVID domestic network to ensure that when our guests are ready to travel, we are there for them,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Chief Commercial Officer. “WestJet remains committed to building back stronger for the betterment of all Canadians and as we look ahead to reconnecting friends, family and loved ones, the safe restart of travel is essential to Canada’s economic recovery.”

WestJet’s investments are critical to ensuring British Columbia’s recovery from the COVID-19 crisis and by the end of June, the airline is set to inaugurate new flights between Abbotsford and Prince George and restore WestJet Link service between Vancouver and Cranbrook.

“As a leader in aviation, WestJet has been working with industry, tourism and business across the province to ensure their voices are being heard as we safely restart travel. We thank Premier Horgan and his government for prioritizing travel as a critical component of the government’s restart plan. While progress has been made in British Columbia, we continue to advocate for safe travel framework from the Government of Canada,” said Angela Avery, WestJet Executive Vice-President.

This July, WestJet will offer non-stop service from Vancouver to 18 cities, from Victoria to eight cities, from Kelowna to seven cities, from Comox to four cities and from Nanaimo to three cities. From the communities of Kamloops, Penticton and Prince George, the airline will connect to two communities non-stop.

Love Where You’re Going Again – WestJet’s Latest Video

For more than 17 months, Canadians from coast-to-coast have been separated from the people and places they love. WestJet’s latest brand moment is a reminder to Canadians that it’s time to love where they’re going, again.

British Columbia route restarts between now and June 30, 2021

Route	Peak Frequency	Route restart date
Victoria – Winnipeg *	3x weekly	June 24, 2021
Kelowna – Regina *	2x weekly	June 24, 2021
Nanaimo – Vancouver	2x daily	June 25, 2021
Nanaimo – Edmonton *	2x weekly	June 25, 2021
Comox – Vancouver	2x daily	June 25, 2021
Kelowna – Saskatoon *	2x weekly	June 25, 2021
Kelowna – Victoria	4x weekly	June 25, 2021
Vancouver – Cranbrook	1x daily	June 25, 2021
Abbotsford – Prince George *	2x weekly	June 25, 2021
Prince George – Calgary	4x weekly	June 25, 2021
Victoria – Ottawa *	1x weekly	June 26, 2021
Comox – Edmonton	5x weekly	June 26, 2021
Comox – Toronto *	1x weekly	June 26, 2021
Victoria – Saskatoon *	2x weekly	June 27, 2021
Victoria – Toronto	2x weekly	June 30, 2021
Penticton – Edmonton *	2x weekly	July 4, 2021
Kamloops – Edmonton *	2x weekly	July 5, 2021
Vancouver – Fort St. John	4x weekly	July 13, 2021

*New Route

About WestJet 

In 25 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 100 destinations in 23 countries, pre-pandemic.

Since the start of the pandemic the WestJet Group of Companies has built a layered framework of safety measures to ensure Canadians can continue to travel safely and responsibly through the airline’s Safety Above All hygiene program. During this time, WestJet has maintained its status as one of the top-10 on-time airlines in North America as named by Cirium.

WestJet reconnecting Alberta routes

Airline to restart 10 routes across province and inaugurate new service from Edmonton to Penticton, Kamloops and Nanaimo

Non-stop service between Calgary-Charlottetown to launch on July 29

CALGARY, AB, June 25, 2021 /CNW/ -WestJet is further restoring Alberta’s domestic and interprovincial connectivity with the restart of 10 routes to and from destinations across British Columbia, the Yukon, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Nova Scotia from Calgary, Edmonton and Medicine Hat. The airline will also start operation of three new routes to and from Edmonton and begin non-stop service between Calgary and Charlottetown. Full schedule details and resumption dates are outlined below.

“We continue to work towards the restoration of our pre-COVID domestic network to ensure that when our guests are ready to travel, we are there for them,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Chief Commercial Officer. “WestJet remains committed to building back stronger for the betterment of all Canadians, and as we look ahead to reconnecting friends, family and loved ones, the safe restart of travel is essential to Canada’s economic recovery.”

Connecting Alberta to Prince Edward Island non-stop

After being delayed due to the pandemic, WestJet will bridge new domestic connections between the east and the west with the introduction of new twice-weekly, non-stop service between Charlottetown, P.E.I., and Calgary, beginning July 29. The service connecting the two provinces was previously scheduled to start in June 2020.

WestJet’s investments are critical to ensuring Alberta’s recovery from the COVID-19 crisis and this July, WestJet will offer non-stop service from Calgary to 42 cities and from Edmonton to 16 cities. 

“This week’s meeting with more than 70 Northern Alberta industry partners demonstrates the value of listening to our partners as we enter the recovery phase of the pandemic. We thank Premier Kenney and his government for leading the safe restart of travel for Albertans. While progress has been made in Alberta, we continue to advocate for a safe travel framework from the Government of Canada,” said Angela Avery, WestJet Executive Vice-President.

Love Where You’re Going Again – WestJet’s Latest Video

For more than 17 months, Canadians from coast-to-coast have been separated from the people and places they love. WestJet’s latest brand moment is a reminder to Canadians that it’s time to love where they’re going, again.

Alberta route restarts between now and July 6, 2021

Route	Peak Frequency	Route restart date
Edmonton – Nanaimo*	2x weekly	June 25, 2021
Edmonton – Regina	6x weekly	June 25, 2021
Edmonton – Comox	5x weekly	June 25, 2021
Calgary – Prince George	4x weekly	June 25, 2021
Calgary – London, Ont.	4x weekly	June 25, 2021
Edmonton – Winnipeg	6x weekly	June 30, 2021
Calgary – Windsor	2x weekly	June 26, 2021
Calgary – Whitehorse	2x weekly	June 27, 2021
Calgary – Medicine Hat	5x weekly	June 27, 2021
Edmonton – Halifax	2x weekly	July 1, 2021
Edmonton – Penticton*	2x weekly	July 3, 2021
Edmonton – Kamloops*	2x weekly	July 4, 2021
Edmonton – Saskatoon	6x weekly	July 6, 2021
Calgary – Charlottetown *	2x weekly	July 29, 2021

*New route

About WestJet 

In 25 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 100 destinations in 23 countries, pre-pandemic.

Since the start of the pandemic the WestJet Group of Companies has built a layered framework of safety measures to ensure Canadians can continue to travel safely and responsibly through the airline’s Safety Above All hygiene program. During this time, WestJet has maintained its status as one of the top-10 on-time airlines in North America as named by Cirium.

WestJet reconnecting Saskatchewan routes

Airline to restore non-stop service to Edmonton and inaugurate new flights from Saskatoon and Regina

CALGARY, AB, June 25, 2021 /CNW/ – WestJet is further restoring Saskatchewan’s domestic connectivity with the restoration and inauguration of five routes to and from destinations across Alberta and British Columbia from Saskatoon and Regina. Full schedule details and resumption dates are outlined below.

“We continue to work towards the restoration of our pre-COVID domestic network to ensure that when our guests are ready to travel, we are there for them,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Chief Commercial Officer. “WestJet remains committed to building back stronger for the betterment of all Canadians and as we look ahead to reconnecting friends, family and loved ones, the safe restart of travel is essential to Canada’s economic recovery.”

WestJet’s investments are critical to ensuring Saskatchewan’s recovery from the COVID-19 crisis and by the end of June the airline will begin its new non-stop flights from Saskatoon to Kelowna and Victoria.

“We have spent time listening to our valued government, airport, tourism and related industry partners in Saskatchewan as we enter the recovery phase of the pandemic. We thank Premier Moe and his government for prioritizing travel in their restart plan. While progress has been made in Saskatchewan, we continue to advocate for a safe travel framework from the Government of Canada,” said Angela Avery, WestJet Executive Vice-President.

This July, WestJet will offer non-stop service from Saskatoon to seven cities and five cities from Regina.

Love Where You’re Going Again – WestJet’s Latest Video

For more than 17 months, Canadians from coast-to-coast have been separated from the people and places they love. WestJet’s latest brand momentis a reminder to Canadians that it’s time to love where they’re going, again.

Saskatchewan route restarts between now and July 6, 2021

Route	Peak Frequency	Route restart date
Regina – Kelowna *	2x weekly	June 24, 2021
Regina – Edmonton	6x weekly	June 25, 2021
Saskatoon – Kelowna *	2x weekly	June 25, 2021
Saskatoon – Victoria *	2x weekly	June 27, 2021
Saskatoon – Edmonton	6x weekly	July 6, 2021

*New route

About WestJet 

In 25 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 100 destinations in 23 countries, pre-pandemic.

Since the start of the pandemic the WestJet Group of Companies has built a layered framework of safety measures to ensure Canadians can continue to travel safely and responsibly through the airline’s Safety Above All hygiene program. During this time, WestJet has maintained its status as one of the top-10 on-time airlines in North America as named by Cirium.