London Gatwick Airport and WestJet have announced that they have reached an agreement under which the Canadian low-fares airline will launch flights between London and Canada, commencing in spring 2016.
As the low-cost long haul trend continues, WestJet has selected London, England as the first transatlantic destination from Canada for its wide-body Boeing 767-300 aircraft. The service is expected to open up the market between North America and London, providing cost effective access to cities in Canada for British business and leisure travellers, and also offer Canadian travellers new opportunities to visit Britain.
Gatwick Airport CEO Stewart Wingate said: ‘WestJet’s announcement that it will connect Canada and London is further illustration that the growth of low cost long haul will continue to be a game-changer, increasing competition and services for passengers.
‘As we near a recommendation on where the UK’s next runway should be built, it is clear that expansion must encourage the growth of this sector as it becomes more and more prominent in the market.
‘Gatwick’s expansion plan is more flexible, and will be available to all airlines and service all routes including the low cost long haul sector – it would effectively future proof the UK’s aviation market.’
WestJet CEO Gregg Saretsky added: ‘London Gatwick is the ideal airport for our first transatlantic wide-body destination. WestJet needs more well-managed and efficient airports like Gatwick to continue to offer the best fares available for our guests. As we look at more international destinations as part of our growth strategy, we will look to airports who share our passion for efficient, low-cost travel combined with a remarkable guest experience.’
A leader in affordable leisure and business travel, WestJet will now add London to its list of routes. The schedule, fares and other specifics of the Gatwick service is expected to be announced later this summer.
