News Releases
Airline increases revenue passenger miles by 5.5 per cent
CALGARY, March 4 /CNW/ - WestJet today announced February traffic results with a load factor of 82.6 per cent. Revenue passenger miles (RPM) increased 5.5 per cent year over year and capacity, measured in available seat miles (ASM), grew 5.7 per cent over the same period.
"Our strong load factor is, in part, a reflection of our strong growth into Mexico and the Caribbean," commented Sean Durfy, WestJet President and CEO. "Our international expansion and continued focus on transborder routes are key to driving the success of our strategic plan. We have become the preferred choice of travellers to the sun destinations we serve."
Sean Durfy noted, "The pricing environment has not improved and we are anticipating a decline in year-over-year first quarter revenue per available seat mile (RASM) of 10 to 12 per cent. This decline reflects current economic challenges, the aggressive competitive pricing we have faced and the shift of Easter to the second quarter in 2009. We are seeing cost relief, due primarily to declines in fuel costs, that is helping to partially offset the decline in RASM."
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February 2009 traffic results
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February 2009 February 2008 Change
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Load factor 82.6% 82.8% (0.2 pts.)
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ASMs (billions) 1.350 1.277 5.7%
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RPMs (billions) 1.116 1.058 5.5%
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Year-to-date 2009 Year-to-date 2008 Change
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Load factor 79.6% 79.4% 0.2 pts.
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ASMs (billions) 2.835 2.634 7.6%
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RPMs (billions) 2.256 2.092 7.8%
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Sean Durfy added, "Despite uncertain economic times and some of the worst winter weather in years, WestJetters continue to deliver amazing results. Our team is dedicated to delivering a world-class guest experience. Thanks to their efforts and our strong business model, I have no doubt we will continue to be a top-performing airline in North America and around the world."
This disclosure contains forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, statements regarding projected RASM for the first quarter of 2009. However, these forward-looking statements 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 consumer demand, changes in fuel prices, 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 statements as a result of any new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law.
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 and leather seats on its modern fleet of 77 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft and live seatback television provided by Bell TV. 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.