WestJet Expands Fleet with Major Boeing Order
Canadian airline WestJet has placed its largest order with Boeing, announcing plans to purchase a total of 67 aircraft. This significant acquisition includes 60 Boeing 737 Max 10 single-aisle jets and seven Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner widebody aircraft, with options for an additional four planes.
Fleet Expansion and Network Growth
The new Dreamliners are intended to support WestJet’s growing international network, while the 737 Max 10s will be utilized to enhance both domestic routes within Canada and services to the USA. These aircraft additions make WestJet the airline with the most extensive order book in Canada and will effectively double WestJet’s current fleet of Dreamliners.
“With the addition of these aircraft, WestJet has the largest order book of any airline in Canada, doubling our fleet of Dreamliners, underpinning our growth plans, and our commitment to affordable travel options for Canadians and exciting career paths for our people,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet CEO.
Efficient and Comfortable Fleet Renewal
Emphasizing the efficiency and comfort of the new aircraft, von Hoensbroech also highlighted potential improvements in fuel consumption as a significant factor in fleet renewal. This order brings the total number of aircraft awaiting delivery to WestJet to 123 from Boeing.
“We are honored that WestJet has once again placed its trust in Boeing with a major investment that builds on our three decades of partnership and solidifies their fleet for the decades ahead,” said Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We look forward to supporting WestJet’s exciting growth as they leverage the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner to serve even more passengers with great efficiency and comfort.”
WestJet’s Ongoing Growth
Founded in 1996 in Calgary, WestJet initially operated with three Boeing 737s. Over the years, it has grown to become a prominent player in the North American aviation market, currently managing routes extending to the UK and Europe with a fleet now comprising 150 Boeing 737s and seven Boeing 787s.
