News Releases

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Airlines have signed agreement to bring code-share to their customers in
late 2009
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CALGARY, Dec. 24 /CNW/ - WestJet Airlines today announced that WestJet
and Southwest Airlines have executed the definitive agreement that will allow
the two airlines to deliver code-sharing capability in late 2009. A Memorandum
of Understanding between the airlines was announced on July 7, 2008.
Dr. Hugh Dunleavy, WestJet's Executive Vice-President, Commercial
Distribution commented, "This is an important step towards the implementation
of our joint code-sharing program in 2009. We have negotiated the terms that
will ultimately bring great value to our customers and to our respective
shareholders. Getting the agreement signed is a nice Christmas present for
both airlines.
"This agreement is an important step in implementing our strategic plan
and bringing us a step closer to accessing Southwest's 64 cities and more than
3,400 flights while giving Southwest access to our network of 55 cities and
more than 400 flights each day," added Dr. Dunleavy.

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 76 Boeing Next-Generation 737
aircraft, and live seatback television provided by Bell TV. With future
confirmed deliveries for an additional 45 aircraft, bringing its fleet to 121
by 2013, WestJet strives to be the number one choice for travellers.

This news release contains forward-looking statements related to
WestJet's intention to offer services in connection with its code-sharing
alliance with Southwest. Specific statements relate to the anticipated impact
of such alliance on WestJet's routes, fares, and guest experience. These
forward-looking statements are based on WestJet's current intent, beliefs, and
expectations and are not guarantees of future results. These statements
involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that could cause
actual results to vary materially from those expressed in or indicated by
them. Factors include, among others, (i) the company's receipt of necessary
governmental approvals, (ii) consumer interest in, and demand for, the
combined offering; (iii) the impact of competitive offerings; and (iv)
economic and related uncertainties that could impact the ability of the two
companies to fully implement all of the initiatives currently contemplated by
their alliance.