Canadian airline company WestJet Group has announced a partnership with the Government of Alberta to make significant progress across the province’s aviation sector.
In order to further enhance its growth strategy, WestJet plans to make a significant investment in aircraft capacity, with more than C$7bn in Calgary alone for fleet commitments to be based within the province.
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WestJet Group CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech said: “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 in securing WestJet’s thriving future.”
“Through the pandemic and onward, the Government of Alberta prioritised the importance and advancement of aviation and the visitor economy across the province and recognised that aviation is central to the economic diversification of Alberta.”
WestJet also plans to develop Calgary International Airport (YYC) as its single global connecting hub.
In addition, it will focus on bringing in all intercontinental 787 Dreamliner flying in the region to facilitate new routes within North America to Europe and also with the potential to reach Asia.
It also plans to grow its network across other Canadian communities and boost its footprint in the east and in leisure travel across the country.
The agreement will see provincial government investment in developing Alberta’s aviation sector.
Additionally, the Government of Alberta and the WestJet Group will seek opportunities to address the cost-competitiveness challenges for the sector.
Alberta Premier Jason Kenney said: “This is a blockbuster day for Alberta and a game-changer for our economy. Diversification and economic development are happening right here in Alberta.
“By choosing Calgary as its single global hub, locating its entire Dreamliner fleet here, and increasing its annual seat capacity by 80%, WestJet will massively improve global connectivity, tourism and options for passengers.”
