News Releases

CALGARY, Nov. 27 /CNW/ - WestJet (TSX:WJA) commented today on Blue Sky:
Canada's New International Air Policy report that was issued by Transport
Minister Lawrence Cannon.
Sean Durfy, WestJet President stated, "The federal government's pledge to
establish further bilateral air agreements with other countries is encouraging
and will provide consumers with more choice and provide air carriers with more
market opportunities."
Mr. Durfy elaborated that the government has, in the report, indicated
that Canadian carriers be able to compete with a 'reasonably level playing
field'. WestJet believes that the definition of what constitutes 'reasonable'
must be defined and that two fundamental issues be dealt with, specifically
that Canadian carriers get fair access to foreign airport terminal facilities
in future bilateral agreements and the issue of uncompetitive taxes and fees
be addressed.
Last week, the Montreal Economic Institute released its report on the
excess fees, rents and taxes imposed on Canadian carriers, which are among the
highest in the world.
"WestJet has demonstrated its ability to compete against some of the
largest airlines in the world and to do so profitably", added Mr. Durfy. "We
welcome the chance to compete aggressively in the international arena but only
if we can do so equitably. I am pleased that Minister Cannon has recognized in
his speech this morning the legitimacy of the industry's concerns regarding
over-taxation."