News Releases
Airline purchases aircraft to fuel strong demand for exceptional guest
experience
CALGARY, July 31 /CNW/ - WestJet (TSX:WJA) today announced it has signed
an agreement with The Boeing Company for the purchase of 20 Boeing 737
Next-Generation aircraft.
Ken McKenzie, WestJet Executive Vice-President, Operations commented,
"Consumer demand for WestJet continues to grow. We have had a significant
impact on the North American airline industry and require these additional
aircraft to satisfy the demands of our guests for our services in Canada, the
United States, the Caribbean and Mexico."
Fourteen aircraft are scheduled to be delivered in 2012 with an
additional six in 2013. The agreement is for the purchase of 737-700 series
aircraft with options on all aircraft to be converted to 737-800 if desired.
"This is one of the largest orders in WestJet's history," added
Mr. McKenzie. "From a financial perspective, we are one of the healthiest
airlines in North America. Our proven brand and unique culture combined with
the support of our guests gives us the ability to grow over the next decade.
Through 2013, we have numerous capacity deployment opportunities in which we
envision WestJet flying to over 60 destinations in North America, Mexico and
the Caribbean on a scheduled basis."
Ray Conner, Vice-President for the Americas, Boeing Commercial Airplanes
said, "WestJet is a significant partner for Boeing. We are confident in
WestJet's continued success with their strong cash position, their ability to
generate positive cash flow and their position as one of the most profitable
airlines in North America. We are pleased to be able to provide the most
successful commercial aircraft in aviation history to help fuel WestJet's
growth."
WestJet is Canada's leading low-fare airline offering scheduled service
throughout its 38-city North American and Caribbean network. Named Canada's
most admired corporate culture in 2005 and 2006, WestJet pioneered low-cost
high-value flying in Canada. With increased legroom and leather seats on its
modern fleet of Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft, and live seatback
television provided by Bell ExpressVu on the majority of its fleet, WestJet
strives to be the number one choice for travellers.