News Releases
Airline reports increase in revenue passenger miles of 11 per cent
CALGARY, Oct. 3 /CNW/ - WestJet today released September traffic
statistics, announcing a load factor of 75.5 per cent. This was accompanied by
an increase in revenue passenger miles of 11.0 per cent and growth in
capacity, measured in available seat miles, of 15.8 per cent. Over the month,
46,573 more guests were flown compared to September 2007.
"Our September results cap off a third quarter of substantial growth,"
commented Sean Durfy, WestJet President and CEO. "WestJet flew 295,030 more
guests in the third quarter. It is very encouraging to see a continually
increasing number of guests flying with us, indicating we are on track with
our strategic objectives. These results are a testament to our strategy,
business model, and most importantly, our people.
"Our recently introduced advertising campaign highlights the added value
we offer our guests through free services other airlines charge for and
through our exceptional guest experience. Our decision to eliminate the fuel
surcharge demonstrates our commitment to providing guests with the best
value."
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September 2008 Traffic Results
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September September
2008 2007 Change
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Load factor 75.5% 78.7% (3.2) pts.
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Available seat miles (ASM) 1.417 billion 1.224 billion 15.8%
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Revenue passenger miles (RPM) 1.069 billion 0.963 billion 11.0%
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Third quarter Third quarter
2008 2007 Change
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Load factor 81.4% 83.2% (1.8) pts.
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Available seat miles (ASM) 4.551 billion 3.789 billion 20.1%
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Revenue passenger miles (RPM) 3.705 billion 3.152 billion 17.5%
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Year-to-date Year-to-date
2008 2007 Change
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Load factor 80.9% 81.8% (0.9) pts.
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Available seat miles (ASM) 12.851 billion 10.726 billion 19.8%
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Revenue passenger miles (RPM) 10.402 billion 8.771 billion 18.6%
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>>
"Revenue per available seat mile (RASM) for the third quarter showed a
slight decline year over year," continued Sean Durfy.
This disclosure may contain forward-looking statements and is subject to,
and may be affected by, numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are
beyond WestJet's control. WestJet's results may differ materially from those
expressed in or implied by such statements. Factors that could cause or
contribute to these differences include, but are not limited to: changes in
government policy, exchange rates, interest rates, disruption of supplies,
volatility of fuel prices, terrorism, general economic conditions, the
competitive environment and other factors described in WestJet's public
reports and filings. Forward-looking statements are subject to change and
WestJet does not undertake to update, correct or revise any forward-looking
information as a result of any new information, future events or otherwise.
About WestJet
WestJet is Canada's leading high-value low-cost airline offering
scheduled service throughout its 51-city North American and Caribbean network.
Named Canada's most admired corporate culture in 2005, 2006 and 2007, WestJet
pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. WestJet offers increased legroom and
leather seats on its modern fleet of 76 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft
and live seatback television provided by Bell TV. With future confirmed
deliveries for an additional 45 aircraft, bringing its fleet to 121 by 2013,
WestJet strives to be the number one choice for travellers.