Chicago to Join WestJet Network, with Daily Calgary and Vancouver Service

Canadian carrier WestJet plans to launch daily non-stop service between Chicago and Vancouver and between Chicago and Calgary on May 14, subject to receiving government approvals.

Calgary-based WestJet will fly the new routes to Chicago O’Hare International Airport with its own Boeing 737NG fleet, but will continue to market non-stop services from Chicago to Toronto, Ottawa and Montréal as codeshares on partner American Airlines’ flights. Chicago is a major hub for American Airlines, providing connections to key destinations in the U.S. and internationally.

“The addition of Chicago shows how our continued growth and codeshare agreements are working together to provide guests with non-stop service from the East and West,” says John MacLeod, WestJet’s vice-president, network management and alliances.

Canadian carrier WestJet was the lessee for the 50th Next-Generation 737 purchased by leasing company BOC Aviation directly from the manufacturer. BOC Aviation took delivery of the aircraft, a 737-800, on December 13, 2011

Adds MacLeod: “We believe this balance appeals to both business and leisure travellers looking to experience what Chicago has to offer, as well as for northbound travellers looking to visit Banff and the Rocky Mountains via Calgary or board cruise ships from Vancouver. We look forward to welcoming new and returning guests on board these exciting new services.”

WestJet is offering introductory one-way fares C$149 from Calgary and C$169 from Vancouver, plus applicable taxes and fees. Fares are available by visiting www.westjet.com, by calling WestJet’s Sales Super Centre at 1-888-WESTJET (937-8538) or through travel agents.

The airline’s newly released summer schedule also includes seven-times daily service to New York LaGuardia; daily service to Whitehorse, Yukon; three-times weekly service to Kingston, Jamaica; and weekly non-stop service to Aruba.

WestJet operates a fleet of 97 Boeing Next-Generation 737s. With future confirmed deliveries for an additional 38 aircraft through 2018, WestJet’s stated aim is to be one of the five most successful international airlines in the world.