Guest1 Posted February 11, 2023 Share Posted February 11, 2023 WestJet pilots ask for federal assistance after months of failed contract talks By Staff The Canadian Press Posted February 10, 2023 1:28 pm The union that represents pilots at WestJet says it is asking for federal assistance after months of failing to reach a contract agreement with the airline. The WestJet Master Executive Council, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), says it has filed a request for conciliation assistance with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. READ MORE: WestJet pilots at an ‘impasse’ with airline over contract talks: union The federal Minister of Labour now has 15 days to appoint a conciliation officer. Once appointed, the officer would work with the parties for 60 days to reach an agreement. If both parties remain at an impasse following this period, a 21-day cooling-off period begins before the parties can consider other alternatives, including a strike or lockout.ition, asks for investigation ALPA, which represents approximately 1,800 pilots at WestJet and its low-cost subsidiary Swoop, says it has been negotiating unsuccessfully with Calgary-based WestJet since September. The pilots’ first union contract, which expired at the end of 2022, was the result of an arbitrated settlement reached in 2018. That settlement averted a threatened pilots’ strike, as WestJet pilots had voted in favour of job action after contract talks fell apart. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest1 Posted February 13, 2023 Share Posted February 13, 2023 WestJet announces largest network expansion from Edmonton in airline's history with launch of new U.S. routes and enhanced domestic connectivity NEWS PROVIDED BY WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership Feb 13, 2023, 11:00 ET SHARE THIS ARTICLE New transborder routes connecting Edmonton with Minneapolis and Seattle along with increased access across Canada underpins continued expansion of Alberta's global aviation network EDMONTON, AB, Feb. 13, 2023 /CNW/ - WestJet today revealed significantly increased transborder connectivity from Edmonton International Airport, with new non-stop service to Minneapolis, Minnesota and Seattle, Washington as part of its 2023 summer schedule. In addition, WestJet's summer schedule from Edmonton will revitalize the city's domestic connectivity from coast-to-coast with the airline unveiling new routes from Edmonton to London, Moncton, Charlottetown and the resumption of nonstop flights to Ottawa, Montreal, Nanaimo and Penticton. WestJet's renewed commitment to the city of Edmonton will see the airline's service increase by almost 50 per cent this summer when compared to 2022. Additionally, today's announcement underpins WestJet's strategic ambitions to grow its presence across Western Canada and further strengthens Canada's east to west connectivity. "Since our first day of operation in February 1996 to reaffirming our commitment to the city and region almost exactly 27 years later, Edmonton is an integral part of WestJet's beginnings and our future," said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group Chief Executive Officer. "As WestJet continues to own our position as the undisputed home-team carrier of Western Canada, I am grateful to be celebrating our renewed focus on Edmonton alongside our valued partners as we take strides to energize the city's two-way tourism opportunities and bolster its accessibility for business and leisure travellers." In celebration of its new Edmonton-based investments which mark the single largest expansion of WestJet's network serving Edmonton in history, the airline, in partnership with Edmonton International Airport, was joined by valued partners from across the region at a special event held in the heart of the city's vibrant downtown ICE District. "WestJet continues to invest in our region by creating important non-stop routes to critical destinations that foster business development and propel the visitor economy," said Myron Keehn, President & CEO, Edmonton International Airport (YEG). "The more flights we have at YEG, the more opportunities we can offer Edmonton, our region, and Canada's North, and we're thrilled to welcome even more WestJet flights to our airport and showcase the Edmonton Region as an attractive hub for tech, sustainability, trade and tourism." Rounding out Alberta's growing and thriving aviation hub WestJet's summer schedule serving Alberta builds on the airline's foundational support of the province that will allow for its leisure, cargo and business economies to thrive like never before. With five new additions and the restart of four destinations to Edmonton's network, WestJet will serve 21 domestic and four transborder destinations from Alberta's capital this summer. Details of WestJet's new summer service from Edmonton Destination Start Date Peak Season Frequency Departure Time Arrival Time Minneapolis (MSP) *New June 2 5x weekly 08:15 11:46 Seattle (SEA) *New May 19 5x weekly 10:30 11:30 Charlottetown (YYG) *New June 14 1x weekly 10:25 17:58 Moncton (YQM) *New June 29 2x weekly 10:25 17:57 Penticton (YYF)1 July 1 2x weekly 11:00 11:27 Nanaimo (YCD) 1*Year-Round Year- round 2x weekly 10:30 11:29 London (YXU) *New May 19 2x weekly 10:25 15:52 Ottawa (YOW) 1 April 30 6x weekly 09:00 14:43 Montreal 1 June 30 2x weekly 01:00 07:03 1 Resumption of service last operated in 2021 Additional quotes: "Air travel is critical to our regional economy. Direct routes to strategic business locations make our region more globally competitive. They attract investment and human capital and they connect our local companies to the global marketplace. Half of all cargo moves in the bellies of passenger planes – the increase in direct flights and the new connection to Minneapolis is a big boost for our local businesses. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these flights will have on our region." - Malcom Bruce, Edmonton Global, Chief Executive Officer "These new connections serve as an important tool for further positioning Edmonton as an international hub for trade and travel in Western Canada. New routes to the US will further open up economic expansion opportunities for businesses in the Edmonton region while also bringing in visitors to explore everything our great capital city region has to offer. Thank you to the teams at the Edmonton International Airport and WestJet for making today's announcement possible." - The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance, and Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre "With these new flight commitments from West Jet, the future of tourism is looking even brighter. Seeing more visitors enjoying all that Alberta has to offer is something our government is excited about. Our Festivals, Parks and Mountains are second to none and we look forward to sharing them with the world." - The Honourable Todd Loewen, Ministry of Forestry, Parks and Tourism "With the recent announcement of WestJet increasing their services both to the United States and from coast to coast in Canada, I am pleased for the positive outcomes to the Edmonton region that are sure to follow. As Edmonton's population continues to grow, Edmontonians' desire to travel and feel connected does too. This is a much welcomed investment that will spark economic growth and vibrancy in the Edmonton region, and I look forward to my next transborder and domestic flights with WestJet from the Edmonton International Airport." - Edmonton Mayor, Amarjeet Sohi "On behalf of Leduc County, I'd like to congratulate WestJet on its exciting network expansion. The success of the airport is directly tied to the success of the region, and the more direct flights EIA has – especially to key connecting hubs in the United States – the easier it will be to connect with businesses on a global scale, which will in turn drive business development and diversification." - Leduc County Mayor, Tanni Doblanko Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest1 Posted February 13, 2023 Share Posted February 13, 2023 WestJet brings new U.S. destinations and enhanced domestic connectivity to summer schedule as airline’s new growth strategy takes flight 13 February 2023Canadian Aviation News CALGARY, AB, Feb. 13, 2023 /CNW/ – WestJet today unveiled 20 new routes and three new destinations to the airline’s summer schedule. Offering a comprehensive network of connectivity between Western Canada and the United States, WestJet’s summer network additions feature new non-stop service to Washington Dulles, Detroit and Minneapolis, with new routes added to Atlanta, Austin, Chicago, Nashville and Seattle. In line with the airline’s previously announced strategic direction, WestJet is also expanding domestic travel options across Canada with increased frequencies and options to travel from coast-to-coast, and everywhere in between. “We are thrilled to be expanding our network and giving our guests substantial opportunity to explore the U.S., and Canada from coast-to-coast this summer,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group Chief Executive Officer. “From increased domestic options to expanded regional and transborder connectivity throughout Western Canada, our summer schedule demonstrates our unwavering commitment to fulfilling the diverse needs of Canadian travellers and ensuring we are the friendly, reliable and affordable airline they love.” With strengthened domestic and transborder connectivity, WestJet will increase its service up to nearly 30 per cent in Calgary, 50 percent in Edmonton and 10 per cent in Vancouver when compared to 2022. Expanded U.S. network with more routes and increased access to Delta hubs This summer WestJet will introduce Minneapolis, Detroit and Washington D.C. (Dulles), to its network, in addition to investing in new routes and restoring service to an expansive list of U.S. destinations. Through its longstanding partnership with Delta Air Lines, guests connecting through Minneapolis and Detroit will gain access to two more of the U.S. airline’s major hubs. Building on WestJet’s current service to Delta hubs, including Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle, WestJet guests will now have access to over 150 U.S. destinations 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. Additionally, frequent flyers of both airlines will continue to enjoy extensive reciprocal benefits any time they fly with either carrier, including earning and redeeming in their preferred program. Highlights of WestJet’s summer 2023 transborder and international service Destination Start Date Peak Season Frequency Departure Time Arrival Time Calgary – Austin* May 18 2x weekly 09:40 14:30 Calgary – Chicago* May 18 4x weekly 12:15 16:40 Calgary – Detroit1 May 26 5x weekly 12:35 18:05 Calgary – Washington D.C. (Dulles) June 2 3x weekly 09:45 16:02 Edmonton – Minneapolis1 June 2 5x weekly 08:15 11:46 Edmonton – Seattle1 May 19 5x weekly 10:30 11:30 Vancouver – Atlanta1 May 17 4x weekly 22:25 06:05 Vancouver – Nashville May 19 2x weekly 10:00 16:19 Vancouver – Orlando* May 6 1x weekly 11:00 19:52 Winnipeg – Los Angeles3 Apr 30 3x weekly 07:00 08:38 Toronto – Bermuda3 May 5 2x weekly 07:00 10:42 *Resumption of service/ 1 Delta hub/ 3 Continuation of winter service Enhancing non-stop west to east connectivity As part of WestJet’s new strategic direction, the airline is taking strides to further provide guests with extensive opportunities to seamlessly and affordably travel across Canada. Substantially strengthening Canadian connectivity, WestJet is adding five new routes between Eastern and Western Canada, further positioning its network to support travel demands across the country. Destination Start Date Peak Season Frequency Departure Time Arrival Time Calgary – Moncton June 14 3x weekly 09:15 16:49 Calgary – Thunder Bay* June 29 3x weekly 14:00/15:45 18:36/20:21 Calgary – Quebec City* May 19 4x weekly 17:55 23:55 Edmonton – Charlottetown June 14 1x weekly 10:25 17:58 Edmonton – London May 19 2x weekly 10:25 15:52 Edmonton – Moncton June 29 2x weekly 10:25 17:57 Edmonton – Ottawa* Apr 30 6x weekly 09:00 14:43 Edmonton – Montreal* June 30 2x weekly 01:00 07:03 *Resumption of service Bringing Western Canadian communities closer through a strengthened regional network As Western Canada’s undisputed home-team carrier, WestJet is enhancing its aviation gateway for business and leisure travel opportunities by further strengthening regional connectivity with the resumption of non-stop flights and increased frequencies. Destination Start Date Peak Season Frequency Departure Time Arrival Time Calgary – Terrace* May 1 4x weekly 09:40/14:10 10:58/15:28 Edmonton – Nanaimo* April 30 2x weekly 10:30 11:29 Edmonton – Penticton* July 1 2x weekly 11:00 11:27 Kelowna – Regina* May 21 2x weekly 17:30 20:34 Kelowna – Saskatoon* June 2 2x weekly 17:35 20:29 Kelowna – Winnipeg* June 2 3x weekly 19:15 23:33 Vancouver – Regina* Jun 30 2x weekly 20:45 23:47 Winnipeg – Victoria* April 30 2x weekly 17:30 18:28 *Resumption of service Additional quotes “Delta is excited about WestJet’s expanded US-Canada network in summer 2023,” said Perry Cantarutti, senior vice president Alliances and International for Delta. “We already have a strong codeshare network with WestJet, and extensive reciprocal benefits for our frequent flyers. With both increased flights to Delta’s hubs in Atlanta and Seattle, as well as new WestJet flights to our hubs in Minneapolis/St. Paul and Detroit, we look forward to growing our partnership, offering new travel and connection options to more customers, and increasing competition.” “We’re thrilled to welcome WestJet to Minnesota and are pleased to add an important business route to Edmonton from MSP,” said Brian Ryks, CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which owns and operates MSP. “WestJet’s arrival also opens up new connections for travelers across Western Canada and the United States leveraging their codeshare with Delta Air Lines, MSP’s largest carrier.” “We are pleased to have WestJet begin operations at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. With the addition of WestJet, our customers will be able to fly directly from Detroit to Calgary for the first time since 2005. We’re hoping this route will also give our Canadian neighbors one more reason to visit our great region, “said Chad Newton, Wayne County Airport Authority CEO. “Dulles International Airport welcomes WestJet to the Washington, D.C., region with this first-ever service to Calgary,” said Chryssa Westerlund, Airports Authority executive vice president and chief revenue officer. “Calgary will become the 60th international destination from Washington Dulles, and WestJet will be our 40th air carrier. We are thrilled to welcome WestJet to Dulles and to provide customers this new link between Western Canada and Washington.” About WestJet Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest1 Posted February 21, 2023 Share Posted February 21, 2023 WestJet Sells Seven Boeing 737s To Be Scrapped BYAARON BAILEY PUBLISHED 3 HOURS AGO With multiple Boeing 737 MAX on order, the aircraft will send seven 737NG to Georgia for parts. Photo: Calgaryplanes / Westjet Canadian, Calgary-based airline Westjet (WS) will say goodbye to seven 737 next-generation aircraft as they are sold for parts to Atlanta-based Aventure Aviation. The seven aircraft in question hold serial numbers 34284, 34285, 34286, 34287, 34288, 35111, and 35112. With Westjet pivoting its strategy to focus mainly on operations from its base in Calgary, and other West coast ports, the airline is in the middle of a fleet renewal, which has seen Boeing 787s join the fleet alongside Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Aventure Aviation Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Aventure Aviation specializes in the 'tear down' of various aircraft, selling parts to various other airlines and organizations. Providing component solutions to multiple aircraft operators. The solutions provided range from public to corporate and government, including armed forces. In addition to picking for parts, Aventure Aviation assists in the end-of-life and retirement of aircraft.e that Aventure Aviation will utilize the aircraft for a range of parts for their customer list. With aircraft shortages and delivery delays, Kevin Lang, Aventure’s Director of strategic accounts, noted:“This major acquisition will provide a significant inventory increase for our global customer base.” Westjet's move to MAX aircraft Westjet already has 23 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft in its fleet, with more on order. With 32 MAX 7 and 54 MAX 10 on order, in a move to improve reliability, optimize operations and reduce CO2 emissions. The new MAX aircraft is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by millions of pounds each year compared to the older generation aircraft. With Westjet's recent pivot to focus on its home in Western Canada, the airline has recently introduced multiple routes across the border. WestJet recently revealed nine new US routes from Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon, and Vancouver, all taking off in May and June. Two of the nine have never been served – at least not in the 33 years since 1990. Five other routes had had non-stops before, two of which were by WestJet but are currently unserved. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest1 Posted February 22, 2023 Share Posted February 22, 2023 Province facing questions over WestJet flights from Saskatoon to Minneapolis 01:50 Province facing criticism over air service 02:39 WestJet announces new Sask. flights Wayne Mantyka CTV News Regina Video Journalist Follow | Contact Updated Feb. 21, 2023 6:33 p.m. MST Published Feb. 21, 2023 5:22 p.m. MST ShareMore share options The provincial government is facing questions over why it has favoured Saskatoon over Regina for U.S. air service. The province has given WestJet a $2.2 million revenue guarantee to fly a route from Saskatoon to Minneapolis. A similar incentive was not provided for Regina and some economists are questioning the deal. “If it’s not viable in and of itself then why are we subsidizing it in the first place? What are we actually going to get out of this?” asked Jason Childs, an economist at the University of Regina. Both Saskatoon and Regina lost direct air service to Minneapolis prior to the pandemic. RELATED STORIES Sask. officials hope direct flights to Minneapolis boost tourism and business opportunities WestJet adding Saskatoon to Minneapolis direct flights The new service will operate three days a week, a route that the government considers crucial. “We have heard over and over again from the business community, the significance of having direct connection to a U.S. hub city,” said Jeremy Harrison, minister of Trade and Export Development. Some southern Saskatchewan air travellers question why Regina wasn’t offered a similar deal. “It doesn’t make any sense why Saskatoon should have it and Regina doesn’t have it. It’s something that I definitely think should be brought back here,” said Sheldon Morash. The government said it would consider proposals to support additional direct U.S. flights. The Regina airport wants daily air service to the U.S. “We’re looking at all the best options there. I think that we would probably want more than just three days if possible but there’s a lot of moving factors right now,” said Justin Reves, manager of customer experience and marketing for YQR. The Regina Airport could seek a provincial government incentive in the future to attract a new airline route. For now, it’s waiting for the right opportunity. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest1 Posted March 3, 2023 Share Posted March 3, 2023 WestJet flight to Calgary makes emergency landing in Kelowna Turbine of a WestJet Encore flight 3252 on its way to Calgary. (Courtesy of Steven Laurie, Facebook) By Alejandro Melgar Posted Mar 3, 2023, 9:35AM MST. Last Updated Mar 3, 2023, 9:37AM MST. A WestJet plane en route to Calgary from Kamloops had to make an emergency landing in Kelowna Thursday afternoon. The place, WestJet Encore flight 3253, was travelling from Kamloops to Calgary with 75 guests on board. Reports say the incident was made known at around 3:40 p.m. Due to a “mechanical issue” with the aircraft, the plane landed safely at the Kelowna International Airport around 4:45 p.m. The model of the plane was a Dash 8 Q400 with twin propeller engines. A passenger on the flight took a video of one of the engines. “Weird … sounds came from the right engine of the plane now it stopped completely, landing in Kelowna emergency landing,” Steven Laurie’s Facebook post reads. Emergency crews were on the scene and responded at around 4:30 p.m. No injuries have been reported. In a statement to CityNews, WestJet says the crews onboard followed the standard safety procedures. WestJet says it is working to accommodate the guests on the next flight to Calgary. “We sincerely apologize to our guests for this inconvenience the diversion has caused and appreciate their patience and understanding as we worked to get them on their way as soon as possible,” the statement reads 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest1 Posted March 4, 2023 Share Posted March 4, 2023 Duck and run or good planning, I guess the press will tell us which when the dust (snow ) settlers WESTJET BRACES FOR STORM The Canadian Press - Mar 3, 2023 / 2:47 pm | Story: 414334 Photo: The Canadian Press WestJet proactively cancelled all scheduled flights to and from Toronto Pearson International Airport on Friday, ahead of a major winter storm set that was set to hit the city. A WestJet plane waits at a gate at Calgary International Airport in Calgary, Alta., Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2022.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh WestJet proactively cancelled all scheduled flights to and from Toronto Pearson International Airport on Friday, ahead of a major winter storm that was set to hit the city. Flights in and out of Toronto are expected to resume Saturday morning, the airline said in a service update. "At this time, scheduled operations to and from Toronto are expected to resume ... at a reduced capacity, contingent on weather conditions improving as forecasted," WestJet said in a release. WestJet said it would continue to monitor storm conditions and make operational changes as required. It advised guests travelling to or from Toronto to check the status of their flights before leaving for the airport. Air Canada also warned customers to check their flight status before leaving for the airports in Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal. Environment Canada warned of a significant winter storm expected to hit Toronto on Friday evening and strongly discouraged non-essential travel due to dangerous conditions. The weather agency said the most dangerous conditions were expected between 9 p.m. and midnight, when snowfall rates were predicted to be between 5 to 8 cm/h. Severe weather "is expected to bring heavy snow and strong winds to a large swath of southern Ontario," Environment Canada said in its winter storm warning. "Heavy snow in combination with strong easterly winds will create significantly reduced visibility and hazardous travel conditions." The weather agency said surfaces like highways, roads, walkways and parking lots could become difficult to navigate because of accumulating snow. It also said some could experience power outages due to a combination of heavy wet snow and wind, and advised residents to monitor for updates from Environment Canada. Back to Homepage Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Maverick Posted March 4, 2023 Share Posted March 4, 2023 3 hours ago, Kargokings said: Duck and run or good planning, I guess the press will tell us which when the dust (snow ) settlers WESTJET BRACES FOR STORM The Canadian Press - Mar 3, 2023 / 2:47 pm | Story: 414334 Photo: The Canadian Press WestJet proactively cancelled all scheduled flights to and from Toronto Pearson International Airport on Friday, ahead of a major winter storm set that was set to hit the city. A WestJet plane waits at a gate at Calgary International Airport in Calgary, Alta., Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2022.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh WestJet proactively cancelled all scheduled flights to and from Toronto Pearson International Airport on Friday, ahead of a major winter storm that was set to hit the city. Flights in and out of Toronto are expected to resume Saturday morning, the airline said in a service update. "At this time, scheduled operations to and from Toronto are expected to resume ... at a reduced capacity, contingent on weather conditions improving as forecasted," WestJet said in a release. WestJet said it would continue to monitor storm conditions and make operational changes as required. It advised guests travelling to or from Toronto to check the status of their flights before leaving for the airport. Air Canada also warned customers to check their flight status before leaving for the airports in Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal. Environment Canada warned of a significant winter storm expected to hit Toronto on Friday evening and strongly discouraged non-essential travel due to dangerous conditions. The weather agency said the most dangerous conditions were expected between 9 p.m. and midnight, when snowfall rates were predicted to be between 5 to 8 cm/h. Severe weather "is expected to bring heavy snow and strong winds to a large swath of southern Ontario," Environment Canada said in its winter storm warning. "Heavy snow in combination with strong easterly winds will create significantly reduced visibility and hazardous travel conditions." The weather agency said surfaces like highways, roads, walkways and parking lots could become difficult to navigate because of accumulating snow. It also said some could experience power outages due to a combination of heavy wet snow and wind, and advised residents to monitor for updates from Environment Canada. Back to Homepage I don't know, Malcolm. What do you think? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest1 Posted March 4, 2023 Share Posted March 4, 2023 12 hours ago, Maverick said: I don't know, Malcolm. What do you think? No question there. Good Planning........... Surprised you would ask. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest1 Posted March 4, 2023 Share Posted March 4, 2023 TSB deploys to Kelowna, British Columbia, to investigate a WestJet Encore aircraft inflight engine fire 3 March 2023Canadian Aviation News EDMONTON, AB, March 3, 2023 /CNW/ – The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) is deploying an investigator to Kelowna, British Columbia, to investigate an inflight engine fire that resulted in the diversion of a WestJet Encore De Havilland DHC-8-402 aircraft on 02 March 2023. The TSB will gather information and assess the occurrence. The TSB is an independent agency that investigates air, marine, pipeline, and rail transportation occurrences. Its sole aim is the advancement of transportation safety. It is not the function of the Board to assign fault or determine civil or criminal liability. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kip Powick Posted March 5, 2023 Share Posted March 5, 2023 On 3/3/2023 at 1:16 PM, Kargokings said: “Weird … sounds came from the right engine of the plane now it stopped completely, landing in Kelowna emergency landing,” Steven Laurie’s Facebook post reads. Yeh...I think it might be called "feathering" but civilans and "jet jockeys" are probably not familiar with that term Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest1 Posted March 10, 2023 Share Posted March 10, 2023 And now it will get very interesting, at least for those working at the merged (or not merged) airlines. Note the protection granted to Montreal. Ottawa greenlights WestJet's takeover of Sunwing The Canadian Press Staff Contact Updated March 10, 2023 2:38 p.m. MST Published March 10, 2023 2:34 p.m. MSTMore share options OTTAWA - The federal government is giving the thumbs up to WestJet Airlines' takeover of Sunwing Airlines and Sunwing Vacations. Transport Minister Omar Alghabra says the decision "was not taken lightly" given the travel chaos that erupted over the winter holidays and left Sunwing passengers stranded abroad for days. Announced last March, the takeover will see Calgary-based WestJet bolster its vacation package offerings as it adds the tour operator to its fleet, though they've said the two brands will be marketed separately. Last fall the Competition Bureau warned that the purchase by Canada's second-biggest airline would likely result in higher prices and decreased services, particularly around package deals. The transport minister has attached conditions to the acquisition that include extending Sunwing packages to five new cities, maintaining capacity on affected routes and keeping both a vacations business head office in Toronto and a regional one in Montreal for at least five years. Financial terms of the takeover have not been disclosed. This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 10, 2023. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Seeker Posted March 10, 2023 Share Posted March 10, 2023 On 3/5/2023 at 5:06 PM, Kip Powick said: Yeh...I think it might be called "feathering" but civilans and "jet jockeys" are probably not familiar with that term Yeah, one of the biggest problems with props is that even untrained observers can tell when it's not turning. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
W5 Posted March 14, 2023 Share Posted March 14, 2023 WestJet Pilots Union Authorizes Strike Vote https://simpleflying.com/westjet-pilots-union-authorizes-strike-vote/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
airbrake Posted March 21, 2023 Share Posted March 21, 2023 Anyone have access and able to copy the body here to this article? Thanks if you can. https://www.flightglobal.com/fleets/westjet-to-launch-737-freighter-flights-on-22-april/152533.article Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kip Powick Posted March 21, 2023 Share Posted March 21, 2023 4 minutes ago, airbrake said: Anyone have access and able to copy the body here to this article? Thanks if you can. https://www.flightglobal.com/fleets/westjet-to-launch-737-freighter-flights-on-22-april/152533.article Canadian carrier WestJet intends to begin flying Boeing 737-800 cargo aircraft next month after having received the required regulatory approvals. The Calgary-based airline on 20 March said it had received from Transport Canada “approval and official certification” for four 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCFs). The company intends to place three of those jets into service “expeditiously”, with the first aircraft set to begin flying on 22 April. A fourth 737-800BCF remains in the passenger-to-freighter conversion process and will likely enter service “later this year”, WestJet says. The airline is launching the new cargo operation under a partnership with aviation services company GTA Group, which is based near Toronto. GTA’s subsidiaries provide aviation logistics, cargo, e-commerce, grand-handling and other services. “Today is a long-awaited milestone… that will now enable us to disrupt the air cargo industry in Canada,” says WestJet executive vice-president of cargo Kirsten de Bruijn. The operation will give shippers a new competitive cargo option and increase air-cargo capacity within the country, she adds. WestJet in March 2022 disclosed its plan to operate 737-800 freighters under a business arrangement with GTA, saying the aircraft will fly “overnight express cargo services” from Toronto. “The dedicated freighters will initially focus service within North America, serving Calgary, Halifax, Toronto, Vancouver, Los Angeles and Miami,” WestJet says. “WestJet Cargo’s dedicated freighter routes will further connect to the bellies of WestJet’s fleet, serving to accommodate the diverse needs of cargo customers in leveraging the airline’s expansive network.” WestJet has not elaborated on the specifics of the GTA partnership. Its fleet currently includes three stored 737-800BCFs that will be “operated for” GTA, according to Cirium data. Those jets are managed by aircraft lessor and management company BBAM. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
airbrake Posted March 21, 2023 Share Posted March 21, 2023 2 hours ago, Kip Powick said: Canadian carrier WestJet Thank you! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest1 Posted March 21, 2023 Share Posted March 21, 2023 Interesting choice of words: “Today is a long-awaited milestone… that will now enable us to disrupt the air cargo industry in Canada,” says WestJet executive vice-president of cargo Kirsten de Bruijn. What needs to be disrupted? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
W5 Posted March 23, 2023 Share Posted March 23, 2023 Travelweek: Aviation expert breaks down approved WestJet-Sunwing deal: What's next? https://www.travelweek.ca/news/aviation-expert-breaks-down-approved-westjet-sunwing-deal-whats-next/ Post date: Mar 21 2023 By: Cindy Sosroutomo Share TORONTO — It’s been a busy few weeks for Canada’s airlines, with headlines ranging from lawsuits to more government funding for airports. But the biggest news to have emerged this month, at least with regards to Canada’s four major airlines, was the federal government’s approval of the WestJet-Sunwing deal. Announced on March 13 by Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra, the decision to give WestJet the go-ahead to acquire both Sunwing Vacations and Sunwing Airlines was “not taken lightly,” given the industry’s recent bouts with flight delays, cancellations and bottlenecks. But the deal, which industry experts expected to be approved ever since it was first announced in March 2022, is proceeding as planned to “help maintain the stability of the sector,” said the Minister. Though the financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed, what we do know is that both airlines will have to adhere to strict terms and conditions set forth by the federal government. The transition from two airlines to one entity will be closely watched, to say the least, particularly by Canada’s Competition Bureau, which previously raised concerns over “substantial anti-competitive effects” in areas of overlap between the airlines’ respective networks. Canada’s two other major airlines, Air Canada and Transat, will also be closely watching as the deal will surely impact coveted sun markets where Sunwing has long been a price leader. Speaking with Travelweek, John Gradek, Faculty Lecturer and Coordinator of McGill’s Aviation Management Program and former member of the Transportation Appeal Tribunal of Canada, says the deal will most likely result in higher prices for travellers. “With this WestJet acquisition, Sunwing, the price leader in sun markets, has been absorbed by a financially strong operator, assuring Canadians of continued service to these markets. But in my opinion, pricing will change upwards, benefitting the carriers and operators but to the chagrin of Canadian sun travellers,” says Gradek. Noting the “rather unenforceable package pricing oversight as contained in the government’s conditions,” Gradek adds that consumers will largely be the ones to keep pricing in check. “Monitoring will most likely be in the hands of consumers as prices are hiked, with some pressure from the government for restraint. How this will work remains to be seen,” he says. As for the terms and conditions that the government has enforced for both WestJet and Sunwing, will they be easily met? Here’s how Gradek breaks down each of the government’s conditions: Extending Sunwing vacation package offerings to five new Canadian cities. “There are no details on the five new Canadians cities – why only these five? How were they chosen? There’s no mention made of minimum frequencies to be offered – will it be 1x/weekly, 6 weeks only, or more? There are a lot of questions when the government stipulates flight service levels in approving a transaction.” Maintaining capacity on routes most affected by the merger. “I’m assuming this refers to routes served by both carriers simultaneously. Will WestJet be required to have two aircraft running side by side on the same route, or will they be required to do double-dailies (ie. early a.m. and evening flight) with the same aircraft? Again, if the government gets involved in flight scheduling, what is their role, their competencies in evaluating and understanding commercial decisions?” Increasing regional connectivity. “I’m not sure what the criteria will be to measure this condition. Will WestJet have to initiate connection service to its Canadian airport services to offer connections for regional traffic? We’re now getting into enforcing service levels in regional/small markets.” Improving baggage handling for better passenger experience. “Measured how? What about delayed baggage? Customer responsiveness by the carrier? This is new territory for government oversight.” Maintaining a vacations business head office in the Toronto area and a regional office in the Montreal area for a minimum of five years. “This is a standard political condition. Look for consolidation after the five years.” Increasing net employment by 20% over three years in the Toronto office. “Again, this is a political directive but will it be made at the cost of transferring people from other WestJet Holidays or Sunwing offices? How should we interpret ‘net’?” Ensuring better passenger experience by investing in IT technology solutions to improve Sunwing’s communications. “This must be in reference to Sunwing’s poor response to customers who tried to get information about operating issues during the Christmas period. The government must be assuming that IT technology – and Sunwing’s supposed lack of such technology – would improve the handling of disrupted operations. I would suggest an analysis of what went wrong in customer communications during this period, and ensure that appropriate action – whether it be increased staffing, better training or better flight decision-making – would be needed.” Supplying airfare data on vacation packages for monitoring of post-acquisition price trends. “This would infer a return to pricing oversight of vacation packages, which might be encroaching on current provincial oversight of vacation packages. It gets a little tricky here, wherein there might be a suggestion of government edicts to monitor and enforce vacation pricing practices.” Gradually ending Sunwing’s seasonal leasing practice to protect Canadian jobs. “This is very much a political statement to end Sunwing’s traditional operating practices of balancing aircraft against their demands. The government has traditionally approved such practices in the past, but now deems such practices as not politically acceptable?” APPR CHANGES ARE COMING According to Minister Alghabra, the Government of Canada is also working on significant reforms to the Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR), which were first introduced in July 2019 and later broadened in September 2022 to provide passengers with their choice of either a refund or rebooking in the event of a flight cancellation or a lengthy delay due to a situation outside the airline’s control. Just yesterday, Travelweek reported that NDP transport critic Taylor Bachrach plans to table a private member’s bill that aims to close APPR loopholes, increase fines for airlines and make compensation automatic for impacted travellers. When asked how the WestJet-Sunwing deal will make APPR more challenging for travellers and travel agents, Gradek says we’ll have to wait and see. “I’m not sure what the revised APPR will contain but listening to pronouncements made to date, the Minister has indicated that the onus for validating payment of compensation will be inverted to the practices of airlines – and potentially tour operators – for justification as to why compensation claims should not be paid,” says Gradek. “I believe the Minister is looking to the industry to make compensation payments automatic to affected passengers, as well as eliminate the ‘loopholes’ he claims are currently in the APPR. It’s interesting that travel agents are now being included in discussions about the application of the APPR, though how this would be done is quite opaque,” he adds. NEXT STEPS FOR WESTJET AND SUNWING So now that they’ve been given the green light by the federal government, what’s next for WestJet and Sunwing? How early can we expect to see changes to their operations? Noting that the transaction has yet to be “consummated” by the players, Gradek says that the financial and operational terms are most likely being worked out, taking into account recent events, namely Sunwing’s winter sun flight cancellations out of Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Atlantic Canada and northern Ontario. “One has to wonder whether the financials of the transaction might have changed as a result of Sunwing’s poor brand image during the Christmas period and whether [WestJet’s parent company] Onex might attempt a reduced financial value for Sunwing. We might be hearing some ‘noise’ to that effect,” says Gradek. “In terms of formal integration, I suspect that the Winter 2023-24 WestJet Holidays season will reflect some integration of services, but I’m not sure how much rebranding might occur. Will the Sunwing brand still be around this upcoming winter season in Western Canada, and will we see WestJet livery on Sunwing’s aircraft? We know that WestJet would like to keep the brands separate but will that extend to aircraft as well? Only time will tell,” he adds. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GreatSlave Posted March 23, 2023 Share Posted March 23, 2023 Unenforceable and unrealistic decrees brought to you by the minister of don't know much about my portfolio. 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FA@AC Posted March 31, 2023 Share Posted March 31, 2023 https://calgary.ctvnews.ca/westjet-pilots-to-launch-strike-authorization-vote-as-negotiations-fizzle-1.6337867 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mrlupin Posted April 1, 2023 Share Posted April 1, 2023 https://amfanational.medium.com/amfa-welcomes-westjet-airlines-maintenance-engineers-and-related-employees-ab3c74f9af58 Westjet Technicians unionize, congratulations! 2 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Maverick Posted April 1, 2023 Share Posted April 1, 2023 https://www.amfanational.org/?zone=/unionactive/view_article.cfm&HomeID=900195 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
North of You Posted April 2, 2023 Share Posted April 2, 2023 The news out of this place lately can be squarely placed at the feet of Angry Grampa, who feels that he has been the only one responsible for the success of WJ, and so only he himself should reap the rewards. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Maverick Posted April 3, 2023 Share Posted April 3, 2023 On 4/1/2023 at 5:35 PM, North of You said: The news out of this place lately can be squarely placed at the feet of Angry Grampa, who feels that he has been the only one responsible for the success of WJ, and so only he himself should reap the rewards. I've not seen or heard anything specifically but I've been in enough rooms with him in my 25 years here that it wouldn't surprise me in the least. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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