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WestJet takes delivery of its 100th Boeing Next-Generation 737

CALGARY, Dec. 7, 2012 /CNW/ - Marking yet another milestone in the airline's nearly 17-year history, WestJet today took delivery of its 100^th Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. The plane will sport the hashtag #100Boeing737NG to celebrate the milestone and as another way for guests to connect with the airline on social media.

"This Next-Generation 737-800 marks a major milestone for our airline," said Gregg Saretsky, WestJet's President and CEO.  "The Boeing 737 is a key component in our growth strategy and its excellent reliability, operational efficiency and range have enabled us to expand our trusted brand throughout North America, Central America and the Caribbean. As we take delivery of our 100^th Next-Generation aircraft, I want to thank our more than 9,000 WestJetters for their caring attitude and unwavering commitment to deliver a remarkable guest experience and drive industry-leading results for our airline."

WestJet launched in 1996 with three Boeing 737-200s and operated a total of 23 200-series aircraft before retiring the last one in December 2005. It took delivery of its first Boeing Next-Generation 737 in June 2001 and today, its fleet of 100 aircraft consists entirely of Next-Generation 737 aircraft. The term "next generation" refers to the third generation of the Boeing 737. WestJet's Next-Generation fleet has flown more than 1 billion miles, which amounts to ten trips to the sun or 41,000 rotations around the earth. With one of the youngest fleets in the airline industry, WestJet is proud to have flown over 110 million guests, more than three times Canada's population.

"The growth of WestJet over the past 17 years is truly remarkable," said Brad McMullen, Vice-President of North America Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We are pleased to see the 737 play an integral role in WestJet's success. WestJet has made the Next-Generation 737 the foundation of its fleet and has established a strong operational track record with the airplane."

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 9,000 WestJetters across Canada. Operating a fleet of 100 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft with future confirmed deliveries for an additional 35 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