News Releases
Airline's strong results continue with increased capacity and growth in
revenue passenger miles
CALGARY, March 5 /CNW/ - WestJet (TSX:WJA) today announced February
traffic results with a record load factor of 82.8 per cent. This was
accompanied by a capacity increase of 18.2 per cent, measured in available
seat miles, and an improvement in revenue passenger miles of 19.0 per cent.
"Our February load factor of 82.8 per cent marks 14 consecutive months of
record load factor. Our seasonal capacity deployment strategy, strong sales
for WestJet Vacations, growing network connectivity and continued focus on
delivering an exceptional guest experience are key factors in WestJet's
leading, and continually improving, performance," said Sean Durfy, WestJet
President and CEO. "Through the challenging winter weather, our WestJetter's
delivered record results demonstrating that their commitment to our great
guest service remains as strong as ever. I am proud of our culture and each
WestJetter who lives our values daily."
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February 2008 Traffic Results
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Per cent
February 2008 February 2007 change
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Load Factor 82.8% 82.3% 0.5 pts.
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Available Seat
Miles (ASM) 1.277 billion 1.080 billion 18.2%
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Revenue Passenger
Miles (RPM) 1.058 billion 0.889 billion 19.0%
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Year-to-date Year-to-date Per cent
2008 2007 change
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Load Factor 79.4% 78.9% 0.5 pts.
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Available Seat
Miles (ASM) 2.634 billion 2.253 billion 16.9%
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Revenue Passenger
Miles (RPM) 2.092 billion 1.779 billion 17.6%
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"With February's significant improvement in year-over-year RASM it is
shaping up to be a strong first quarter," commented Sean Durfy. "We are
confident that the recent addition of Quebec City to our 2008 summer schedule
will be a popular destination for Canadians, while providing the people of
Quebec with increased access to our high-value low-fare guest experience."
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.