News Releases
September load factor of 78.7 per cent caps the airline's record third
quarter
CALGARY, Oct. 3 /CNW/ - WestJet (TSX:WJA) today announced a ninth
consecutive record load factor of 78.7 per cent, 3.5 percentage points higher
than that of September 2006. This was accompanied by a capacity increase of
13 per cent and growth in RPMs (revenue passenger miles) of 18 per cent.
"To date, 2007 has been a very positive year as we maintain focus on our
vision of being one of the five most successful international airlines in the
world. In many areas, WestJet is already a leading performer and one of the
healthiest airlines worldwide," commented WestJet President and CEO,
Sean Durfy. "Guest confidence in our brand is measuring at the highest levels
ever. This, coupled with our convenient schedule, strong operational
performance and commitment to our culture continues to generate strong
momentum for WestJet.
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September 2007 Traffic Results
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September September Per cent
2007 2006 change
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Load Factor 78.7% 75.2% 3.5 pts.
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Available Seat Miles
(ASM) 1,224.0 million 1,086.2 million 13%
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Revenue Passenger Miles
(RPM) 963.4 million 817.4 million 18%
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Year-to-date Year-to-date Per cent
2007 2006 change
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Load Factor 81.8% 79.2% 2.6 pts.
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Available Seat Miles
(ASM) 10,726.1 million 9,209.6 million 16%
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Revenue Passenger Miles
(RPM) 8,771.4 million 7,289.5 million 20%
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>>
"Early bookings for our expanding Caribbean and Mexican destinations of
Mazatlan, Montego Bay, Puerto Plata, Punta Cana and Cabo San Lucas are
exceeding expectations. Today's announcement for our newest sun destination
St. Lucia and the strength of the Canadian dollar should further encourage
transborder bookings this winter.
"September's RASM was very positive. This is a direct result of the
implementation of our strategy and the commitment of each and every WestJetter
to the guest experience. I continue to be amazed by the spirit and dedication
of our over 6,500 people and I thank them for their continued exceptional
performance."
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.