News Releases
CALGARY, April 6 /CNW/ - WestJet today announced March traffic results with a load factor of 81.9 per cent. Revenue passenger miles (RPM) increased 0.6 per cent year over year and capacity, measured in available seat miles (ASM), grew 6.3 per cent over the same period.
"Overall, we are pleased with these results and our ability to increase our RPMs by 5.1 per cent for the quarter," said Sean Durfy, WestJet President and CEO. "Given that last year's March benefited from Easter travel and a much stronger economy, we are encouraged by our solid March load factor that hits the top of our optimum operating range of 78 to 82 per cent."
"Lower fuel prices are helping our overall profitability, while our expectations for first quarter revenue per available seat mile (RASM) remain unchanged, at an expected decline of 10 to 12 per cent year over year," continued Sean Durfy.
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March 2009 traffic results
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March 2009 March 2008 Change
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Load factor 81.9% 86.6% (4.7 pts.)
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ASMs (billions) 1.521 1.431 6.3%
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RPMs (billions) 1.246 1.239 0.6%
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Q1 2009 Q1 2008 Change
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Load factor 80.4% 81.9% (1.5 pts.)
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ASMs (billions) 4.357 4.065 7.2%
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RPMs (billions) 3.502 3.331 5.1%
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"In the second quarter, our limited-time offer of a WestJet Price Guarantee appears to have increased confidence and certainty for guests hesitant to book in the current economic environment," added Sean Durfy. "Our WestJetters continue to build trust and loyalty for our brand; we thank them for their ongoing dedication that keeps us true to our high-value and low-cost model."
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 78 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft and live seatback television provided by Bell TV. With future confirmed deliveries for an additional 43 aircraft, bringing its fleet to 121 by 2013, WestJet strives to be the number one choice for travellers.
For further information: WestJet Media Relations, 1-888-WJ 4 NEWS (1-888-954-6397), E-mail: ropalmer@westjet.com; WestJet Investor Relations, 1-877-493-7853, E-mail: investor_relations@westjet.com; Website: www.westjet.com