News Releases
Airline reports October load factor of 75.8 per cent
CALGARY, Nov. 10 /CNW/ - WestJet today released October traffic
statistics announcing a load factor of 75.8 per cent. This was accompanied by
an increase in revenue passenger miles (RPMs) of 9.5 per cent and growth in
capacity, measured in available seat miles (ASMs), of 12.9 per cent. The
airline flew over 68,000 more guests in October compared to the same time last
year.
"We are pleased with our October results reporting a healthy load factor
and strong increases in guest traffic as we continued to add capacity,"
commented Sean Durfy, WestJet President and CEO. "Our 9.5 per cent improvement
in RPMs means that we sold a greater number of seats year over year. During
this period of economic instability, Canadians are becoming more prudent in
their spending choices and will seek out the best value for their hard-earned
dollars. We continue to earn their business by providing a world-class guest
experience, high-value fares and an expanding network. The commitment and
dedication of our WestJetters are essential to creating guest loyalty, one
person and one flight at a time, and I am pleased with how they continue to
deliver a consistently great experience."
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October 2008 traffic results
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October 2008 October 2007 Change
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Load factor 75.8% 78.1% (2.3) pts.
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Available seat miles (ASM) 1.439 billion 1.275 billion 12.9%
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Revenue passenger miles (RPM) 1.090 billion 0.995 billion 9.5%
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Year-to-date Year-to-date
2008 2007 Change
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Load factor 80.4% 81.4% (1.0) pts.
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Available seat miles (ASM) 14.290 billion 12.001 billion 19.1%
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Revenue passenger miles (RPM) 11.492 billion 9.767 billion 17.7%
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>>
"As we transition to our winter travel schedule, the demand for our
popular sun destinations is enhanced by strong fall consumer promotions and
the growing success of WestJet Vacations," Sean Durfy continued. "Our revenue
per available seat mile (RASM) for the fourth quarter of 2008 is tracking to
comparable year-over-year levels."
This disclosure may contain forward-looking statements including, but not
limited to, statements regarding customer demand and RASM in the fourth
quarter of 2008. These statements are based on our current RASM and advanced
bookings for the winter travel schedule. The forward-looking statements are
subject to, and may be affected by, numerous risks and uncertainties, some of
which are beyond WestJet's control. Readers should not put undue reliance on
these forward-looking statements as 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 government policy, exchange rates, interest rates, disruption of
supplies, volatility of fuel prices, terrorism, 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
information as a result of any new information, future events or otherwise,
unless required by applicable securities law.
About WestJet
WestJet is Canada's leading high-value low-cost airline offering
scheduled service throughout its 51-city North American and Caribbean network.
Named Canada's most admired corporate culture in 2005, 2006 and 2007, 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.
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