News Releases

Airline achieves record quarterly load factor of 84.6 per cent

CALGARY, Oct. 3, 2012 /CNW/ - WestJet today announced September 2012 traffic results with a record load factor of 79.1 per cent. Revenue passenger miles (RPMs), or traffic, increased 7.7 per cent year over year, and capacity, measured in available seat miles (ASMs), grew 1.7 per cent over the same period. The airline flew 4.6 million guests in the third quarter which is a year-over-year increase of 9.7 per cent or approximately 408,000 additional guests.

"We reported a record load factor each month this quarter which has translated to our highest ever quarterly load factor. Guests are flying with us in record numbers thanks in large part to our friendly WestJetters and I thank them for their efforts throughout the busy summer travel season," said WestJet President and CEO Gregg Saretsky. "The record load factor exceeded our expectations this quarter and demand remains healthy as we begin the transition into our winter schedule."

September 2012 traffic results

WestJet recently announced British Airways as its eighth code-share partner; a relationship that enables British Airways to market and sell WestJet-operated flights. "We continue to selectively grow our alliance relationships with some of the best airlines in the world and connect a growing number of guests to our network. Our brand is as strong as ever and the momentum continues at WestJet," said Gregg Saretsky. "As we look forward to next year, we are excited about the launch of our new low-cost regional airline and bringing our friendly and caring service to new guests and new destinations."

Caution regarding forward-looking statements
Certain information set forth in this news release, including information regarding load factor expectations, the demand environment and the launch of and plans for the regional airline 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, regulatory and competitive environment and general economic conditions. These and additional risk factors are discussed in WestJet's most recent Annual Information Form 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 most preferred airline, offering scheduled service to 81 destinations in North America, Central America and the Caribbean. Powered by an award-winning culture of care, WestJet has pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. Recognized nationally as a top employer, WestJet now has more than 8,600 WestJetters across Canada. Operating a fleet of 99 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft with future confirmed deliveries for an additional 36 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft through 2018 and plans to launch a low-cost regional airline in 2013, WestJet strives to be one of the five most successful international airlines in the world.

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SOURCE: WestJet