News Releases
CALGARY, June 4 /CNW/ - WestJet (TSX:WJA) today announced May traffic
results showing a load factor of 79.5 per cent on a capacity increase of
20.1 per cent, measured in available seat miles. As a result, almost 100,000
more guests flew with the airline year over year. Revenue passenger miles were
up more than 19 per cent.
"Operationally, we like to run our airline at a load factor of between 78
and 82 per cent, which means right now we're right on target," said WestJet
President and CEO Sean Durfy. "And when we operate in that zone while
increasing our capacity by more than 20 per cent, it tells us there is
continued demand for our exceptional guest experience."
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May 2008 Traffic Results
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May 2008 May 2007 Change
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Load Factor 79.5% 80.0% (0.5 pts)
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Available Seat Miles (ASM) 1.419 billion 1.182 billion 20.1%
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Revenue Passenger Miles (RPM) 1.129 billion 0.946 billion 19.3%
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Year-to-date Year-to-date Change
2008 2007
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Load Factor 81.6% 81.2% 0.4 pts
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Available Seat Miles (ASM) 6.852 billion 5.761 billion 18.9%
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Revenue Passenger Miles (RPM) 5.589 billion 4.679 billion 19.4%
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>>
RASM (revenue per available seat mile) for the quarter is tracking to
improve over 2007.
Furthermore, Durfy noted, "On May 18, we successfully launched service to
Quebec City, providing Quebecers with access to great service and great value.
This has proven to be a popular route already and we were pleased to announce
twice daily service commencing in November."
This disclosure may contain forward-looking statements and are 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 47-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 75 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft,
and live seatback television provided by Bell ExpressVu. With future
deliveries for an additional 46 aircraft, bringing its fleet to 121 by 2013,
WestJet strives to be the number one choice for travellers.