United Kingdom
United States
Asia Pacific
WestJet delays launch of new ultra low cost unit
WestJet’s proposed new ultra low cost unit will stay grounded until at least next summer.
When it announced it was launching a standalone ULCC unit earlier this year, WestJet projected a launch in late 2017 but will not take flight until the summer of 2018, it said.
While it said it has been making steady progress, it won’t announce an initial flight schedule until early 2018.
"Since our initial announcement, we have undertaken numerous steps on our action plan to the prepare for the launch of the ULCC, including establishing the core leadership team, applying for an air operator’s certificate, and addressing initial regulatory requirements," a company statement said.
A fleet of ten ‘high density’ Boeing 737-800s have been earmarked for the new ULCC.
The delay is likely the result of potential labor issues expected in the near future.
Just weeks after announcing it was establishing a new low cost unit, WestJet pilots voted to unionize and aviation analysts fear this could spell more delays for the new startup.
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
Exploring Brooklands Museum with Alex Patterson
Global Tourism Challenges and Upcoming Events: A Conversation with Don Welsh
Peebles Barbeque: A Legacy of Flavor and Tradition
Exploring Bok Tower Gardens with Erica Smith
Rue’s Living Water Boat Cruises: Exploring Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes
Durango and Silverton Railroad: A Timeless Journey Through History and Scenic Beauty
Walt Leger on New Orleans’ Resilience and Major Events Ahead
Cindy Mackin Shares Estes Park’s Winter Thrills
Mark Jaronski of Explore Georgia on FIFA World Cup 2026
Connecting Small Businesses to Global Tourism Markets: Nate Huff of Tourism Exchange
North Carolina’s Resilience: Wit Tuttell on Recovery and Tourism
Kittipong Prapattong’s Plan for Thailand’s Tourism Growth: Taxes, Visas, and Campaigns
EU entry-exit system delayed again
Carnival Cruise Line hosts Prague getaway for Fun Ambassadors
Council moves to designate Forest of Dean a Biosphere
US tourism hit with UK, Germany travel warnings
Uganda Airlines launching London flights