News Releases

Study conducted by Leger Marketing indicates WestJet is tops.

CALGARY, June 9 /CNW/ - WestJet today announced the results of a study conducted by Leger Marketing indicating that WestJet is Canada's preferred airline.

The study, conducted quarterly on behalf of WestJet by Leger Marketing, one of Canada's most well-known and reputable research firms, shows that 49 per cent of Canadians chose WestJet as their preferred airline in Canada. Air Canada was preferred by 35 per cent.

"We are thrilled by this news," said WestJet President and Chief Executive Officer Sean Durfy. "Clearly, this demonstrates that our culture and our people are making a difference in the lives of Canadians. I congratulate the more than 7,500 WestJetters who have earned these results and who work very hard to provide a caring guest experience.

"Becoming Canada's preferred airline is a significant milestone as we continue to deliver on our objectives and move towards our vision of becoming a top five international airline by 2016," continued Sean Durfy. "Our brand and financial strengths are big contributors to these results as the travelling public recognizes that our business model is sustainable and that our guests can book with confidence."

Dave Scholz, Leger Marketing Vice-President, Toronto Office said, "WestJet has consistently performed well when we have asked Canadians which airline they prefer. WestJet provides its customers with the travel experience that people are looking for these days and the survey shows that this is appreciated."

In addition, WestJet ranked 21st in Leger/Marketing Magazine's annual Corporate Reputation Survey and was the only airline to be ranked in the top 100.

Bob Cummings, WestJet's Executive Vice-President, Guest Experience and Marketing added, "We are truly humbled to be number 21 in this study ahead of such great brands as Fed Ex, IBM, Apple, Microsoft, Pepsi, Coke, Starbucks and McDonald's. These results demonstrate the current and future potential of the WestJet brand. We are one of the leading service industry brands in Canada - period. In particular, WestJet is poised to leverage its position to further grow in the business and vacations markets. Our brand will continue to flourish as we introduce new products, deliver on our Care-antee and increase the strength of our company culture."

About WestJet

WestJet is Canada's preferred airline, providing high-value low-cost 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 79 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. With future confirmed deliveries for an additional 42 aircraft, bringing its fleet to 121 by 2013, WestJet strives to be the number one choice for travellers.