WestJet has inaugurated its new Western Canada regional airline service, WestJet Link, with all the flights to be operated by Pacific Coastal Airlines using its fleet of 34-seat Saab 340B turboprops.
The Canadian carrier kicked off its new service from Cranbrook and Prince George to Calgary on 20 June, while service started on 21 June from Lethbridge and Lloydminster to Calgary, with service from Medicine Hat to Calgary due to start on 22 June. Overall, WestJet Link will connect five new cities to the parent airline’s growing hub at Calgary International Airport.
Tim Croyle, WestJet interim executive vice-president, commercial, said: “WestJet continues to offer Canadians more travel options and WestJet Link brings more choice, lower fares and WestJet’s renowned guest service to these five communities.”
“We’d like to congratulate our partner on their addition of WestJet Link, which will increase connectivity opportunities for their guests out of YYC Calgary International Airport,” said Bob Sartor, president and CEO of The Calgary Airport Authority. “These additional routes throughout Western Canada will provide greater air access to those in our smaller regional communities through WestJet’s largest hub.”
“Pacific Coastal Airlines is proud to become part of the WestJet family through the launch of WestJet Link,” said Quentin Smith, president of the privately owned Pacific Coastal Airlines. “This is a great partnership between two Western Canadian airlines that share similar corporate values and a customer-focused approach to doing business. Together, we will work to provide better connectivity and offer more transportation options for the people and the communities we serve.”
British Columbia-based Pacific operates out of Vancouver International Airport’s south terminal and is the third largest airline there measured by annual takeoffs and landings. It flies to 15 airports and connects to more than 50 destinations in the province.
