News Releases

Airline flew an additional 49,000 guests this May compared to last

CALGARY, June 6, 2011 /CNW/ - WestJet today announced May traffic results with a load factor of 74.8 per cent. Revenue passenger miles (RPMs), or traffic, increased 3.1 per cent year over year, and capacity, measured in available seat miles (ASMs), grew 7.0 per cent over the same period.

"May is considered a shoulder period where our aircraft deployment begins to shift back towards more domestic flying as we gear up for the busy summer season," commented WestJet President and CEO Gregg Saretsky. "An increase in our domestic capacity this month contributed to a lower year-over-year load factor, but we remain encouraged with the favorable pricing environment and strong year-over-year yields."

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                           May 2011 traffic results
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                        May 2011            May 2010                Change
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    Load factor            74.8%               77.7%              (2.9 pts.)
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    ASMs (billions)       1.742               1.628                   7.0%
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    RPMs (billions)       1.304               1.265                   3.1%
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                     Year-to-date 2011   Year-to-date 2010          Change
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    Load factor            80.9%               81.4%              (0.5 pts.)
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    ASMs (billions)       8.758               7.917                  10.6%
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    RPMs (billions)       7.087               6.441                  10.0%
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WestJet's enhanced schedule initiative between the cities of Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa began in May and is designed to better serve the needs of business travellers. The added conveniences and unique service promise have already been well received by business guests, and the airline is pleased with the initiative's first month of performance in these important markets.

"I thank WestJetters for their commitment to providing a caring guest experience that is both fun and friendly for all of our guests. As importantly, I thank them for their diligent focus on safe on-time performance, which is paying off with improved year-over-year performance this month," concluded Gregg Saretsky.

Caution regarding forward-looking statements

Certain information set forth in this press release, including information regarding demand for air travel, pricing, yield, and the enhanced schedule between the cities of Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa, contains forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond WestJet's control. These forward-looking statements are based on WestJet's existing strategy and currently available implementation plans, agreements and bookings, but may vary due to factors including, but not limited to, changes in guest demand, competitive environment and general economic conditions. These and additional risk factors are discussed in WestJet's most recent annual information form (AIF) and in other documents WestJet files from time to time with securities regulatory authorities, which are available under WestJet's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Readers are cautioned that undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements as actual results may vary materially from the forward-looking statements. WestJet does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, except as is required by law.

About WestJet

WestJet is Canada's favourite airline, offering scheduled service throughout its 71-city North American and Caribbean network. Inducted into Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures Hall of Fame and named one of Canada's best employers, 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 96 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. With future confirmed deliveries for an additional 39 aircraft through 2018, WestJet strives to be one of the five most successful international airlines in the world.

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