News Releases

CALGARY, Feb. 24 /CNW/ - WestJet (TSX:WJA) today announced the immediate appointment of Barry Jackson to its Board of Directors.

Barry Jackson is the current Chair of TransCanada Corporation and a Director of Nexen Inc. and Laricina Energy Ltd. Mr. Jackson has worked in the oil and gas industry since 1974, most recently as President, CEO and a Director of Crestar Energy Inc. Mr. Jackson is a professional engineer who obtained his bachelor of science in engineering from the University of Calgary.

Clive Beddoe, WestJet's Chairman of the Board commented, "I am pleased to welcome Barry Jackson to the Board. Barry's solid business acumen will be a welcome addition to the team, as we steer the airline through these difficult economic times. Additionally, his involvement in one of Canada's top ranked boards can only strengthen WestJet's focus on continuously improving its corporate governance."

"I look forward to working with Barry," added Sean Durfy, WestJet's President and CEO. "With fuel being our largest overall expense, Barry's oil and gas expertise will aid WestJet's navigation through this turbulent commodity environment."

About WestJet

WestJet is Canada's leading high-value low-cost airline offering scheduled service throughout its 55-city North American and Caribbean network. Named one of Canada's most admired corporate cultures in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. WestJet offers increased legroom, leather seats and live seatback television provided by Bell TV on its modern fleet of 77 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. With future confirmed deliveries for an additional 44 aircraft, bringing its fleet to 121 by 2013, WestJet strives to be the number one choice for travellers.