Air Canada’s operating revenue for the first quarter of this year was 90% higher than a year ago and about 10% higher than the first quarter of 2019. Canada’s largest airline today reported its first quarter 2023 financial results, and it’s clear that the travel rebound is a powerful one, indeed. Air Canada said its operating revenue for the quarter was $4.887 billion, nearly double last year and even higher than 2019, before the pandemic hit. The Montreal-based airline reported an operating loss of $17 million, improved from an operating loss of $550 million in the first quarter of Read more
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The WestJet Group today announced that it has completed its acquisition of Sunwing Vacations and Sunwing Airlines. WestJet said the transaction, originally announced in March 2022, combines the two Canadian aviation and leisure travel success stories, “and will bring greater choice, competitive airfares and increased direct access to sun destinations to Canadian travellers. “In addition, it positions Sunwing to continue its growth across Canada and permits the newly merged company to protect jobs.” Initially, the airlines will continue independent operations, maintaining a sharp focus on providing an exceptional guest experience and ensuring safe operations. As the two entities transition Read more
Air Canada announced today the strategic expansion of its international network with the addition of new, non-stop flights from its hub at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Dubai. The new route will operate four times weekly beginning Oct. 28, 2023 onboard Air Canada’s flagship Dreamliner fleet. The carrier’s new Vancouver-Dubai flights will complement Air Canada’s daily service between Toronto and Dubai, broadening its presence in fast-growing international markets. “We are extremely pleased to add the only non-stop service linking Vancouver and Dubai, two iconic and vibrant global destinations,” said Mark Galardo, Senior Vice President, Network Planning and Revenue Management, at Read more
WestJet has issued a comprehensive update on the progress it is making against its new strategic direction, which was introduced in June 2022 and is focused on building a strong, resilient low-cost airline that has a clear runway for growth. WestJet Group Chief Executive Officer Alexis von Hoensbroech provided the update as part of a State of the Airline address to the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. “We are now seeing the benefits of our new strategy coming to life across Canada; it is ambitious, laser-focused on our strengths and brings back more of what Canadians love about WestJet,” said von Read more
WestJet’s controversial takeover of Sunwing is set to be approved today by the Trudeau government. WestJet also has been given federal licenses for flights to Hong Kong, the Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia. The Globe and Mail this morning (March 10) reported that the announcement will be made today, providing WestJet with a huge increase in its share of the packaged vacation business. Calgary-based WestJet and Toronto-based Sunwing announced the proposed merger in March, 2022. The federal Competition Bureau later stated that the takeover would lead to fewer choices for Canadian travellers, and higher prices. The Globe story said the Trudeau Read more
