Today, WestJet announced it has reached agreement to operate a leased Boeing 757-200 for use on its nonstop services between the Province of Alberta and Hawaii from mid-February through April 2011. This is a trial run for Westjet, which has previously only operated 737-type aircraft. According to the press release, the service will be from Calgary to Maui and Oahu; also Edmonton to Maui.
The 757-200 will come from North American Airlines, a charter provider. NAA will provide all associated personnel for the trial with the exception of a WestJet service ambassador, who will be on board each flight.
Canada will remain a strong and growing part of the Hawaii airlift mix.
As I reported in September,
“Vancouver B.C. plans to cut $20 million in annual aviation fuel taxes imposed on airlines, which should directly translate to lower fares from Canada’s most important Hawaii travel port. The airport also plans on a five-year incentive program to freeze landing and terminal fees at 2010 levels”.
Bottom line
Airlines, both domestic and international have their sights set on Hawaii. That can only be interpreted to mean more choices, and better pricing in the New Year. As a side-note, visitors from Western Canada are Beat of Hawaii’s third largest source of website traffic, following only California and Hawaii.
Bring it on WestJet!
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