WestJet expands Winnipeg operations, adds routes and increases capacity

The WestJet Group has provided a progress update on its growth strategy in Winnipeg during a meeting with the Winnipeg Airports Authority (WAA). The airline outlined a substantial 21% increase in operations for 2024 and highlighted new routes and expanded services for both domestic and international destinations.

“This winter, we will further expand to serve 22 destinations out of Winnipeg, compared to 18 last winter, increasing our capacity by 35%, marking both record growth for us in the community and our largest capacity boost at any airport in Western Canada this season,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group CEO. “Our steadfast commitment to Winnipeg is evident year-round, through our investments and our strong partnership with the WAA, WestJet is well-positioned to continue enhancing travel options for both leisure and business travellers alike.”

Domestic service growth and business benefits

WestJet’s domestic service in Winnipeg has grown by 43% year-over-year, catering specifically to the needs of the business community with same-day itinerary options. Enhanced connectivity to major Canadian markets includes significant frequency increases on key routes:

• Winnipeg-Montreal: New service, five weekly flights
• Winnipeg-Edmonton: 167% increase, 16 weekly flights
• Winnipeg-Vancouver: 120% increase, 11 weekly flights
• Winnipeg-Calgary: 31% increase, 46 weekly flights.

International expansion and new destinations

In addition to bolstering its domestic presence, WestJet is expanding its international network from Winnipeg. New transborder routes to Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale and leisure destinations such as Los Cabos are now part of the airline’s schedule. Popular vacation spots including Cancun and Puerto Vallarta also see increased frequencies, adding to WestJet’s comprehensive offering of winter getaways.

Nick Hays, President & CEO of the WAA, said: “WAA is proud to enhance connectivity for our community, delivering the travel options they deserve. Our growing partnership with WestJet reflects a shared commitment to our province, offering more flights to more destinations from YWG and providing traveller’s with greater choice and convenience.”

WestJet has introduced its UltraBasic fare, offering budget-conscious travellers the lowest-cost options across its entire network. The airline has made air travel more accessible to over 1.4 million Manitobans in 2023, with projections nearing two million passengers by year-end.

This expansion solidifies Winnipeg as a key hub in WestJet‘s network, reinforcing its commitment to both leisure and business travel for the region.