WestJet is Shutting Down Low-Cost Carrier, Swoop Airlines

by Anthony Losanno
WestJet

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Canada’s number two airline, WestJet, just announced that it is absorbing its low-cost carrier brand, Swoop Airlines. Swoop was introduced only five years ago to compete with Flair Airlines. It will now become part of the WestJet brand.

Swoop

The decision to fold Swoop into WestJet came through pilot negotiations that garnered a streamlined operation and an agreement that will result in a 24% pay increase in the next four years. As reported by the CBC, WestJet announced that it will fold Swoop into the WestJet brand by October 28th.

WestJet’s CEO, Alexis von Hoensbroech, said in a news release:

The WestJet Group is confident in the outcome of this negotiated decision and the path forward to integrate Swoop into WestJet’s operations. This integration will enhance our ability to serve a broader spectrum of guests. Instead of only 16 aircraft serving the ultra-low-cost market, each aircraft, in our 180-strong fleet, will offer ultra-affordable travel options through to a premium inflight experience.”

It was not released whether WestJet would be cancelling any routes.

Anthony’s Take: I’ve never flown Swoop, but did fly WestJet and appreciate its partnership with Delta Air Lines. Hopefully, this will not result in too many routes being cut.

(Image Credits: WestJet.)

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Advertiser & Editorial Disclosure: The Bulkhead Seat earns an affiliate commission for anyone approved through the links above This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. We work to provide the best publicly available offers to our readers. We frequently update them, but this site does not include all available offers. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities.

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