WestJet to Launch Ultra-Low-Cost Carrier by End of Year
WestJet Airlines, which started life as a low-cost carrier itself in 1996, said Thursday it plans to launch an ultra-low-cost carrier in Canada.
The company said it plans to start the new service in late 2017 using an initial fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 aircraft, noting the move will offer “growth opportunities and open new market segments.”
“The worldview on low-cost airlines has changed since the launch of WestJet in 1996 and we are responding,” said Gregg Saretsky, the airline’s CEO.
The plan for the ultra-low-cost-carrier follows changes in limits for foreign investments in Canadian airlines which has led to increased competition and lower fares as well as the introduction of new low-cost carriers such as Canada Jetlines.
“It’s all about disrupting at the price-sensitive end of the market,” said Clive Beddoe, the airline’s co-founder and chairman.
WestJet, Canada’s second largest carrier, currently offers service to 21 countries and operates a fleet of Boeing 737 and 767 aircraft.
(Photo: Accura Media Group)