Author Archives: John Friebe

WestJet secures its largest-ever aircraft order with Boeing


Sizeable aircraft order to be delivered through 2034 as part of airline’s multi-billion-dollar investment in future growth

WestJet Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner C-GUDH (msn 64974) YYZ (TMK Photography). Image: 959378.
WestJet Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner C-GUDH (msn 64974) YYZ (TMK Photography). Image: 959378.

CALGARY, AB, Sept. 3, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced an agreement with Boeing for the purchase of 60 737-10 MAX narrowbody aircraft, with options for an additional 25. The order also includes seven 787-9 Dreamliner widebody aircraft with options for four more as the company advances its growth strategy to build a stronger, resilient low-cost airline that provides Canadians with more choice, more destinations and more value.

This order increases the airline’s current order book, to 123 aircraft and 40 options, while extending WestJet’s fleet growth plans through 2034.

“With the addition of these aircraft, WestJet has the largest order book of any airline in Canada and will double our fleet of Dreamliners, underpinning our growth plans and our commitment to affordable travel options for Canadians from coast to coast and exciting career paths for our people,” said WestJet Chief Executive Officer, Alexis von Hoensbroech. “These highly efficient and comfortable aircraft are critical to the growth and renewal of our fleet and will also significantly improve our fuel consumption.”

Since the airline’s inception in 1996, WestJet has been safely and reliably serving millions of Canadians onboard Boeing aircraft. This substantial commitment to WestJet’s growth will allow the airline to continue to build its network and offer affordable options for guests for years to come.

“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 guests with great efficiency and comfort.”

The deal marks future economic benefits on both sides of the border. Canada is one of Boeing’s largest international supply bases, providing aerospace parts for all Boeing commercial airplane models in production, contributing $4 billion in economic benefit to Canada each year, while securing long-term manufacturing jobs in both Canada and the United States.

“This agreement between WestJet and Boeing reflects a pragmatic approach to doing business, creating new opportunities, economic benefits, and long-term jobs on both sides of the border, while ensuring that WestJet is well-equipped to grow, offer more options for passengers, and better connect Canadians,” said the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade.

Building on WestJet’s already significant investment in its home province Alberta, the airline is continuing to invest and grow its commitment to the province.

“I’m thrilled to see this historic purchase agreement between WestJet and Boeing. Not only does this represent WestJet’s largest-ever aircraft order, but it also reinforces Alberta’s growing reputation, both nationally and internationally, as a leading aerospace and aviation hub. Alberta remains a place where businesses can grow and thrive for the future. Alberta’s government continues to be a proud partner of WestJet, including recent support for Lufthansa’s milestone engine repair facility investment.” – Alberta Premier, Danielle Smith

WestJet currently operates 193 passenger aircraft, inclusive of 147 Boeing 737s, seven 787s and 39 De Havilland Q400s. With an average age of approximately 10 years, WestJet’s fleet is among the youngest of established North American carriers.

WestJet’s Board of Directors approved the order for additional Boeing 737 and 787 aircraft to mark the airline’s largest order agreement to-date, and the largest-ever Canadian Boeing order.

Spirit Airlines Takes Action to Build a Stronger Foundation and Future for America’s Leading Value Airline


Spirit Airlines Airbus A320-271N WL N967NK (msn 11128) FLL (Jay Selman). Image: 404290.
Spirit Airlines Airbus A320-271N WL N967NK (msn 11128) FLL (Jay Selman). Image: 404290.

Commences voluntary restructuring process to implement financial and operational transformation to redesign network, optimize fleet and realign strategy with evolving marketplace

Flights, ticket sales, reservations and operations continue

DANIA BEACH, Fla., Aug. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Spirit Aviation Holdings, Inc. (NYSE American: FLYY), parent company of Spirit Airlines, LLC (“Spirit” or the “Company”), today announced that it is executing a comprehensive restructuring of the airline to position the business for long-term success. To facilitate the process, the Company has filed voluntary petitions for Chapter 11 in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York (the “Court”).

Spirit intends to use the Chapter 11 process to implement the broad changes necessary to transition the Company for a sustainable future and position it to deliver the best value in the sky for years to come. The Company has been actively engaged with certain of its largest lessors, secured noteholders and key stakeholders over the past few months as it works to refine its path forward. The Chapter 11 process will provide Spirit the tools, time and flexibility to continue ongoing discussions with all of its lessors, financial creditors and other parties to implement a financial and operational transformation of the Company. The Company is also working productively with its secured noteholders, including with respect to potential financing that may become necessary later in the proceedings.

The Company is filing customary motions with the Court to enable it to conduct business as normal during the restructuring process. Guests can continue to book, travel and use tickets, credits and loyalty points. Wages and benefits will continue to be paid and honored for those employed by the Company, including contractors. Spirit intends to pay vendors and suppliers for goods and services provided on or after the filing date in the ordinary course.

“Since emerging from our previous restructuring, which was targeted exclusively on reducing Spirit’s funded debt and raising equity capital, it has become clear that there is much more work to be done and many more tools are available to best position Spirit for the future,” said Dave Davis, President and Chief Executive Officer. “After thoroughly evaluating our options and considering recent events and the market pressures facing our industry, our Board of Directors decided that a court-supervised process is the best path forward to make the changes needed to ensure our long-term success. We have evaluated every corner of our business and are proceeding with a comprehensive approach in which we will be far more strategic about our fleet, markets and opportunities in order to best serve our Guests, Team Members and other stakeholders.”

“As we move forward, Guests can continue to rely on Spirit to provide high-value travel options and connect them with the people and places that matter most,” Davis continued. “On behalf of our Board and leadership, I want to thank our Team Members for their continued dedication, resilience and commitment to delivering a safe, reliable operation and excellent service to our Guests.”

Through the restructuring process, the Company expects to double down on its efforts to:

  • Redesign its network:ย Spirit will focus its flying on key markets to provide more destinations, frequencies and enhanced connectivity in its focus cities. The Company will also reduce its presence in certain markets.
  • Optimize its fleet size:ย Spirit will rightsize its fleet to match capacity with profitable demand in line with the redesigned network. This will significantly lower Spirit’s debt and lease obligations and is projected to generate hundreds of millions of dollars in annual operating savings.
  • Address its cost structure:ย Spirit will reinforce efforts to build on its industry-leading cost model by pursuing further efficiencies across the business.
  • Effectively compete and meet evolving consumer preferences with its three travel options – Spirit First, Premium Economy and Value:ย Spirit will take full advantage of its lower costs to offer consumers more of what they want – value at every price point. The airline will expand the opportunities for travelers to choose premium options while remaining true to its original mission of making travel more accessible for everyone.

Spirit expects to be delisted from the NYSE American Stock Exchange in the near term as a result of the Chapter 11 filing, and the Company expects that its common stock will continue to trade in the over-the-counter marketplace through the Chapter 11 process. The shares are expected to be cancelled and have no value as part of Spirit’s restructuring.

Boeing, Macquarie AirFinance Announce Order for 30 737 MAX Airplanes

– Lessor builds on first direct purchase in 2024, bringing 737-8 order book to 70

– Macquarie AirFinance portfolio of over 300 owned and committed aircraft on lease to 84 airlines across 48 countries

(PRNewsfoto/Boeing)

DUBLIN, Sept. 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Macquarie AirFinance announced today the lessor has increased its commitment to the 737 MAX with an order for 30 737-8 jets. The purchase was booked in July as unidentified on Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries website.

With this order, Macquarie AirFinance will expand its 737 MAX portfolio to 70, providing its airline customers with access to the latest generation aircraft. The 737’s large global customer base and low operating costs make it a cornerstone of most lessors’ portfolios, representing approximately 30% of all financed airplanes.

“This incremental order marks another milestone in our company’s growth strategy,” said Eamonn Bane, CEO of Macquarie AirFinance. “The Boeing 737 MAX offers exceptional fuel efficiency, reliability, and passenger comfort, making it an ideal choice for our airline customers worldwide. “By expanding our fleet with these state-of-the-art aircraft, we are reinforcing our commitment to providing sustainable and cost-effective solutions to our partners, while supporting the future of global aviation.” 

Known for its versatility, the 737-8 can carry up to 210 passengers depending on configuration, with a range of up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km). The 737 MAX family is well-suited to support airline fleet modernization by reducing fuel use and carbon emissions by 20% compared to the airplanes they replace.

“Macquarie AirFinance’s expanded commitment to the 737 MAX is a testament to the value of this airplane among the leasing community and our airline customers,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. “Lessors remain an important partner to Boeing and global carriers in providing financial solutions that expand single-aisle fleets.”

Lessor orders for the 737 MAX now account for nearly one-quarter of the total order book for the airplane family. Boeing’s 2025 Commercial Market Outlook forecasts that 33,000 new single-aisle airplanes will be needed over the next 20 years to replace older models and meet air traffic growth.

About Macquarie AirFinance

Macquarie AirFinance is a leading provider of aircraft leasing and financing solutions with a portfolio of 227 aircraft leased to 84 airlines across 48 countries and a firm orderbook of 105 new technology narrowbody Boeing and Airbus aircraft. With offices in Dublin, London, San Francisco and Singapore, Macquarie AirFinance is owned by Macquarie Asset Management, PGGM Infrastructure Fund and Australian Retirement Trust.

Winter 2026 News from Taos Ski Valley

New Mexico Resort Celebrates 70th Anniversary with a New Chairlift, Base Area Enhancements, Elevated Offerings at The Blake, and Its Most Expansive Flight Access Ever

"Pride of Contour", in full 2018 new livery
Contour Airlines Embraer ERJ 135ER (EMB-135ER) N16501 (msn 145145) BWI (Tony Storck). Image: 942588.
Taos Air (Ultimate JetCharters) Fairchild Dornier 328-300 (328JET) N419FJ (N192T) (msn 3173) AUS (Jarrod Wilkening). Image: 952672.
Taos Air (Ultimate JetCharters) Fairchild Dornier 328-300 (328JET) N419FJ (N192T) (msn 3173) AUS (Jarrod Wilkening). Image: 952672.

TAOS SKI VALLEY, N.M., Sept. 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Tucked into Northern New Mexico’s Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos Ski Valley is a destination where big mountain spirit meets New Mexican soul; and where legendary terrain gives way to rich, cultural experiences. This winter, Taos celebrates its 70th anniversary with greater accessibility and new on- and off-mountain offerings. With increased flight service, a new triple chair lift, expanded women’s and kids’ ski programs and new developments in the enchanting, intimate base area, Taos Ski Valley continues to invite exploration and independence.

“At its core, Taos Ski Valley delivers the rare combination of world-class big mountain skiing and a deep connection to New Mexican culture, hospitality, and cuisine โ€“ creating a ski vacation unlike anywhere else,” says John Kelly, CEO of Taos Ski Valley. “This winter, we are making it easier than ever to experience that magic, with better flight access than ever before, exciting new additions in the base area, and thoughtful improvements to the mountain that elevate the guest experience in every way.”

Unprecedented Access with Fly Taos
Getting to Taos Ski Valley has never been easier. New this winter, Taos Regional Airport will offer more flights than ever. A new route from Contour Airlines connects Taos directly to Denver International Airport, offering seamless access five days a week from 189 domestic and 33 international destinations. JSX will continue to provide weekly nonstop, semi-private flights from Dallas, Austin, San Diego (Carlsbad), and Los Angeles (Burbank). For more information, visit www.FlyTaos.com.

Complimentary airport transfers are available for guests staying at The Blake arriving on JSX or Contour flights.

On Mountain Enhancements

Taos Ski Valley also remains committed to enhancing the visitor experience every year. This season, Taos has invested in several key guest-focused mountain improvements:

  • Lift 7 Replacement: This summer,ย Taosย replaced Lift 7 โ€“ originally built in 1984 โ€“ with a brand-new triple chair and completely regraded Maxie’s ski run.
  • New RFID Gates: To streamline lift access,ย Taosย has added RFID gates at lifts 1, 4, Pioneers, and Rueggli. Guests can move straight through the gates, which will automatically scan reloadable cards.

Elevated Base Offerings

Sophisticated Accommodations at The Blake
Rated the #1 ski hotel in America by Powder Magazine, The Blake is the centerpiece of the intimate village at the base of the mountain. Just steps from the slopes, this boutique alpine retreat surrounds guests with extraordinary works by storied artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe and Edward Curtis. With thoughtful service from dedicated hausmeisters who help guests with everything from in-room grocery delivery to personalized transportation, and with a focus on wellness through rejuvenating treatments at The Spa & Wellness Center, The Blake delivers a sophisticated lodging experience across classic rooms, suites, and penthouses.

New for winter 2026, guests can enjoy:

  • Complimentary Private Guides: Guests who book a three or four-bedroom penthouse or suite can enjoy a two-hour private guide on their first day, helping them discover the best runs for any ability level and make the most of their visit.
  • The Blake Wellness Package:ย Guests can restore their body and soul after a fulfilling day on the slopes. With The Blake Wellness Package, hotel guests receive a 10 percent discount on lodging when purchasing aย $250ย spa credit, which can be applied toward any treatment or product at The Spa & Wellness Center at The Blake.
  • Holiday Magic Made Easyย โ€“ During the holidays, guests can provide a gift list, and The Blake staff will handle the shopping and wrapping. The Blake can also provide Christmas trees in-room to create the perfect festive ambience.

The Village Experience
Taos Ski Valley’s charming, intimate base village offers all the amenities to make a ski vacation unforgettable with none of the crowds. Visitors can enjoy ice skating, sledding, heated platform tennis courts, new shops, memorable experiences like holiday celebrations and an enchanting sleigh ride to a prix fixe dinner at the famed Bavarian restaurant, and so much more.

New this winter:

  • Taos Kids: a whimsical new store for children and families featuring engaging toys, adventurous clothing, and sweet treats. Every visit will feel like a little adventure, sparking joy and creating memories as vibrant asย Taosย itself.
  • New EV Chargers: the new Red E Charging stations offer faster, higher-amperage charging and a more streamlined user experience.
  • Expanded Seasonal Lockers: A new facility across from the ice-skating rink features 85 private and 6 family-sized lockers indoor seasonal lockers.

Unparalleled Ski Experience
At the heart of the Taos Ski Valley experience is its legendary big mountain terrain, offering skiers uncrowded slopes and endless opportunities to explore. Taos Ski Valley’s renowned ski school offers coaching for all ages and abilities, from kids and beginners to advanced skiers looking to find the best powder stashes. Elevated amenities such as ski-in/ski-out access at The Blake, complimentary ski valet, demo rentals on-site with a boot heater upgrade make every moment on the mountain seamless.

New On-Mountain Experiences for Winter 2026:

  • 70thย Anniversaryย $70ย Lift Tickets: Celebrate Taos’s 1955-56 founding withย $70ย lift tickets throughย December 17, 2025, a nearly 66 percent savings.
  • Adult Three-Day Lesson Package: Guests can level up their skiing with three half-days of instruction for any ability for onlyย $280, aย $60ย bundled savings
  • New Mini-Shredders & Shredders Xtreme Programs: Shredders is a five-week program (once per week) focused on the growth of local skiers and riders. This year,ย Taosย is introducing two new Shredders programs – Mini Shredders introduces children ages three to five to the fun and excitement of skiing or snowboarding; and Shredders Xtreme is a high-energy program for kids ages 11-13 who are ready to test their skills on the mountain’s most demanding terrain.
  • Exclusive Perks for Winter 2026 Passholders:ย Taos Ski Valleyย features a robust lineup of season passes for winter 2026 with the most expansive set of perks the resort has ever offered. 2026 passholder perks include:
    • Heli-Skiing at Silverton Mountain: Taos Value, Kachina, and Kachina Plus passholders receive a complimentary heli-skiing drop at Silverton Mountain in December or January as well as one or two unguided days.
    • 40 percent off buddy tickets: number of available discounted buddy tickets differs by pass type
    • $250ย credit at The Blake and a complimentary Ikon Base Pass for Kachina Plus passholders
    • Season-long discounts: 15 percent off dining, 15 percent off class snowsports lessons, 10 percent off stays at The Blake, 10 percent off Via Ferrata, and varying discounts at Taos Sports.
    • Two passholder appreciation days onย January 11ย andย March 29

Frontier Airlines Launches Limited-Time Early Access to Its 2026-2027 GoWild! All-You-Can-Fly Annual Pass

Nearly Two Years of Unlimited Travel for Just $299* (Regularly $599), Less Than the Price of a Ticket on Many Other U.S. Airlines**

"Steve, the Eagle", delivered on April 30, 2016
Frontier Airlines (2nd) Airbus A321-211 WL N709FR (msn 7097) (Steve, the Eagle) SEA (Bruce Drum). Image: 106145.

DENVER โ€“ September 2, 2025 โ€“ Frontier Airlines (Nasdaq: ULCC), Americaโ€™s Low Fare Airline, announced its biggest GoWild! All-You-Can-Fly Annual Pass deal ever, providing even more value to new passholders who want to enjoy nearly two years of limitless adventures. Now through September 5, consumers can purchase Frontier Airlinesโ€™ 2026-2027 GoWild! All-You-Can-Fly Annual Pass for just $299* (regularly $599) – less than what a customer pays for a domestic ticket on other U.S. airlines** – and begin using it right away, rather than waiting for the standard travel period to begin in May 2026, providing an extra eight months of unlimited flights with Frontier.

โ€œThis is our most exciting GoWild! offer yet,โ€ said Bobby Schroeter, Chief Commercial Officer, Frontier Airlines. โ€œWeโ€™ve never offered a GoWild! All-You-Can-Fly Annual Pass with so much travel time built in.  For just $299* – half off the regular $599 price – our customers can now get nearly two years of unlimited GoWild! flights on Frontier Airlines.  This early access price wonโ€™t last, so now is the time to lock in the best value weโ€™ve ever offered from Americaโ€™s Low Fare Airline.โ€

To learn more and purchase the 2026-2027 GoWild! All-You-Can-Fly Annual Pass, click here.

Included With Your GoWild! All-You-Can-Fly Annual Pass:

  • Special early access price:ย $299* (normally $599)
  • Unlimited flightsย to 100+ destinations across the U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico.
  • Flexibility built in:ย confirm domestic flights the day before travel, international up to 10 days in advance, or lock in select flights early for a small fee.
  • Incredible value:ย pay only $0.01 in airfare per flight (plus taxes, fees, and charges).
  • Keep your rewards growing:ย earn FRONTIER Miles on extras like bags and seats, and extend mileage expiration with pass use.

* Important things to know about the GoWild! Pass:

  • Flights can be booked and confirmed the day before flight departure for domestic travel and 10 days before flight departure for international travel
    • Plan ahead and book select flights early. Simply search and choose GoWild! when available. A GoWild! Early Booking charge may apply
  • Flights must be booked at FlyFrontier.com and the Frontier mobile app
  • Flights are subject to blackout periods
  • Flights do not include any add-on products like bags or seat assignments
  • Access to all domestic and international destinations Frontier serves
  • For each flight, passholders pay $0.01 in airfare plus applicable taxes, fees and charges at the time of booking.
  • Flights and seats are subject to availability; last seat availability is not guaranteed
  • The GoWild! Pass is non-transferable. The passholder is the only passenger allowed to travel with GoWild! Pass privileges
  • Your pass will automatically renew unless you cancel. Customers may opt out of auto renewal on their Frontier Airlines profile page
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the United States to purchase the GoWild! Pass. The passholder may be under the age of 18 and must be a resident of the United States. Passholders under the age of 13 must be enrolled by their parent or legal guardian. Children under the age of 10 must travel accompanied by a passenger who is at least 15 years old
  • Seats available to passholders are capacity controlled, limited in quantity and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last

Frontier Airlines has introduced sweeping changes to its product and customer service offerings, ushering in โ€˜The New Frontier.โ€™ Among the enhancements is UpFront Plus seating, an upgraded seating option with extra leg and elbow room in the first two rows of the aircraft. Customers in UpFront Plus enjoy a window or aisle seat with extra legroom and a guaranteed empty middle seat. The airline also now offers unlimited companion travel for its most loyal customers, with the flexibility to choose a different companion on every Frontier flight. Debuting in late 2025, Frontier will begin offering First Class seating, combining unmatched comfort and space at Frontierโ€™s trademark affordable prices.

Frontier continues to innovate with its industry-leading frequent flyer program, FRONTIER Mileswhich allows customers to โ€˜Get It All For Less.โ€™ Members earn miles quickly and get rewarded for each dollar spent on Frontier products. Miles accrue based on dollars spent with a standard 10X multiplier: $1 = 10 miles, with multipliers increasing at every elite level up to 20X. Elite status is attainable at only 10,000 miles and offers perks such as priority boarding, seat selection and free bag(s) depending on status level. Like the airline, FRONTIER Miles is also family friendly, offering easy family pooling of miles making it simple for families to enjoy rewards together. Joining is free.

Contour Airlines Launches Caribbean Service with Flights from San Juan and St. Thomas to Dominica

SMYRNA, Tenn., Aug. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Contour Airlines is proud to announce the launch of new nonstop flights connecting Luis Muรฑoz Marรญn International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, to Douglasโ€“Charles Airport (DOM) in Dominica. These flights will be operated with Contour’s fleet of 30-seat regional jet aircraft, offering passengers extra legroom, complimentary snacks, and inflight service.

Contour Airlines ERJ-135 side view
Contour Airlines ERJ-135 side view

This historic milestone marks Contour’s official entry into the Caribbean market, expanding travel opportunities and improving accessibility for residents and visitors across Dominica, San Juan, and St. Thomas.

“We’re thrilled to bring Contour’s brand of reliable, comfortable jet service to the Caribbean,” said Ben Munson, President of Contour Airlines. “Launching service in Dominica is an exciting step for us, and we look forward to making it easier for Dominicans to travel and for visitors to discover Dominica, the Nature Island.”

Contour’s new routes will offer the only non-stop jet service from Dominica to both Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. From these points, passengers will be able to book onward connections to destinations throughout the world.

“When I visited St. Thomas, I heard firsthand the desire for a direct connection to Dominica” said Honorable Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister of Dominica. “With the launch of Contour Airlines’ inaugural service, that vision has become reality. This new link strengthens ties between our islands and opens new doors for tourism, trade, and investment. It is a meaningful step toward greater regional connectivity, and I am proud that Dominica can be at the center of this progress.”

Hon. Denise Charles-Pemberton, Minister responsible for Tourism, Ports and International transportation, added “We welcome Contour Airlines’ new services from St. Thomas and San Juan to Dominica. This development strengthens connectivity within the region and improves access for visitors, returning nationals and business travelers. We look forward to working with Contour Airlines as part of our ongoing efforts to support sustainable tourism growth and showcase Dominica’s natural and cultural offerings.” 

Flight Schedule:

DestinationFrequencyDepartureArrivalStart Date
Dominica โ€“ San JuanTuesdays, Thursdays,
Fridays, & Sundays
9:00am10:25amSept. 25th
San Juan โ€“ DominicaTuesdays, Thursdays,
Fridays, & Sundays
4:15pm5:40pmSept. 25th
Dominica โ€“ St. ThomasMondays, Wednesdays, &
Saturdays
9:00am10:15amSept. 27th
St. Thomas โ€“ DominicaMondays, Wednesdays, &
Saturdays
3:00pm4:15pmSept. 24th

Contour Airlines will be the only carrier offering non-stop service between The U.S. Virgin Islands and Dominica. 

Virgin Islands Port Authority Executive Director Carlton Dowe expressed enthusiasm about the new direct service to Dominica provided by Contour Airlines, stating, “The U.S. Virgin Islands is thrilled to welcome Dominica as a new direct destination. This added service enhances convenience and flexibility for both residents and visitors, while also strengthening regional connectivity. With improved access, we anticipate increased opportunities for tourism, deeper cultural exchange, and a positive boost to our economy.” Dowe emphasized that this milestone highlights the significance of collaboration in maintaining the Caribbean as a premier travel destination worldwide.

In addition to the non-stop flights between St. Thomas and Dominica, Contour’s flights to Luis Muรฑoz Marรญn International Airport will provide greater connectivity between Dominica and Puerto Rico and allow travelers the opportunity to connect anywhere in the world. 

“We are delighted to welcome Contour Airlines to Puerto Rico with the launch of its new nonstop service between San Juan and Dominica. This represents an important step in recovering intra-Caribbean capacity and reaffirms our government’s commitment to restoring connectivity via the San Juan hub. We look forward to the positive impact this new service will have on tourism, commerce, and the cultural ties that unite our islands,” said the Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, Willianette Robles Cancel. 

WestJet announces new interline agreement with Copa Airlines, expanding connectivity across Latin America

New partnership unlocks seamless connections betweenย Canadaย and 37 destinations across the Americas, includingย Colombia,ย Brazil,ย Argentinaย and more

First Boeing 737NG in new livery
WestJet Airlines Boeing 737-7CT WL C-GWJO (msn 33969) YYC (Chris Sands). Image: 961614.
Copa Airlines Boeing 737-8V3 WL HP-1711CMP (msn 40663) MIA (Jay Selman). Image: 403912.
Copa Airlines Boeing 737-8V3 WL HP-1711CMP (msn 40663) MIA (Jay Selman). Image: 403912.

CALGARY, AB, Aug. 28, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced a new interline partnership agreement with Copa Airlines, significantly enhancing connectivity across both carriers’ networks. The agreement allows WestJet guests to seamlessly travel beyond its newly announced destination, Panama City, with access to 37 Copa Airlines destinations across Central and South America. Additionally, Copa guests travelling north will gain access to WestJet’s extensive North American network.

WestJet announces new interline agreement with Copa Airlines, expanding connectivity across Latin America (CNW Group/WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership)
WestJet announces new interline agreement with Copa Airlines, expanding connectivity across Latin America (CNW Group/WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership)

“Building on the announcement of our new direct service from Calgary to Panama City, this new interline partnership agreement will increase access to destinations across Central and South America for Canadian travellers,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “We remain focused on connecting guests to the world’s most popular sun and leisure destinations this winter, while also meeting the needs of business travellers by continuing to provide convenient access to some of South America’s largest markets.”

WestJet announced its new service between Calgary and Panama City beginning December 13, 2025, operating four times weekly this winter. This new route between WestJet’s global hub in Calgary and Copa Airlines’ hub in Panama City provides new opportunities for business and leisure guests to visit more of the Americas.

With new access via Calgary to Panama City, WestJet guests can now book a single ticket with a connected itinerary between WestJet and Copa Airlines’ networks with single point check-in and through-checked bags. Bookings will be available through a travel agent or third-party ticket sales websites. 

CountryDestination
ArgentinaBuenos Aires, Cordoba, Mendoza
BelizeBelize City
BoliviaSanta Cruz-Viru Viru
BrazilBelo Horizonte, Brasilia, Florianopolis, Manaus, Porto Alegre, Rio De Janeiro, Salvador, Sao Paulo-Guarulhos
ChileSantiago
ColombiaArmenia, Barranquilla, Bogota, Bucaramanga, Cali, Cartagena, Medellin, Pereira, San Andres Island, Santa Marta
Costa RicaSan Jose
CuracaoCuracao
EcuadorGuayaquil, Quito
El SalvadorSan Salvador
GuatemalaGuatemala City
GuyanaGeorgetown
HondurasSan Pedro Sula
NicaraguaManagua
ParaguayAsuncion
PeruLima
Trinidad and TobagoPort of Spain
UruguayMontevideo

About WestJet       
WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia.    

More Points, More Places: JetBlue Adds Loyalty Benefits to Condor Partnership

Condor Flugdienst Airbus A320-212 D-ATCH (msn 1437) (Condor Sunshine) PMI (Andi Hiltl). Image: 963429.
Condor Flugdienst Airbus A320-212 D-ATCH (msn 1437) (Condor Sunshine) PMI (Andi Hiltl). Image: 963429.

JetBlue TrueBlueยฎ members now fly further through new point earning and redemption opportunities with Condor

NEW YORK & FRANKFURT, Germany–(BUSINESS WIRE)– JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU) and Condor today announced an expansion of their existing partnership to bring even more value and flexibility to travelers. Effective immediately, members of JetBlueโ€™s TrueBlue loyalty program can earn and redeem points on flights operated by Condor, one of Europeโ€™s most trusted leisure airlines.

โ€œExpanding our loyalty partnerships is a key part of how we deliver greater value to our customers,โ€ said Edward Pouthier, vice president of loyalty and personalization, JetBlue. โ€œThrough our collaboration with Condor, TrueBlue members now have more ways to turn their loyalty into meaningful travel experiences. Weโ€™re proud to continue growing the TrueBlue program in ways that meet the needs of todayโ€™s traveler by offering access to a wider range of destinations around the world.โ€

A partner with JetBlue since 2015, Condor is a leading German carrier known for connecting travelers to more than 70 destinations worldwide. Condor serves nine key transatlantic gateways in the U.S. including New York (JFK), Boston (BOS), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), Las Vegas (LAS), Portland (PDX) and Anchorage (ANC) with non-stop service to Frankfurt (FRA). Through Frankfurt, Condor takes customers to some of Europeโ€™s most exciting destinations, including recently expanded service to top cities such as Paris (CDG), Berlin (BER), Rome (FCO), Hamburg (HAM), Munich (MUC), Milan (MXP), Prague (PRG), Vienna (VIE) and Zurich (ZRH).

โ€œAfter a decade of successful partnership, weโ€™re excited to further deepen our collaboration with JetBlue,โ€ says David Carlisle, vice president network planning & partnerships at Condor. โ€œIntegrating Condor flights into the TrueBlue program adds meaningful value for our guests by offering another attractive frequent flyer option โ€” one that complements our existing partnerships and is especially relevant for transatlantic travelers. At the same time, our European network is becoming even more accessible and appealing to TrueBlue members. We are also looking forward to physically moving closer to JetBlue when Condor moves into the brand-new Terminal 6 at JFK next year โ€“ right next to JetBlue’s Terminal 5.โ€

With this enhanced loyalty partnership, TrueBlue members can enjoy even greater flexibility when planning travel through JetBlueโ€™s Northeast focus cities of New York (JFK) and Boston (BOS). Whether booking a dream vacation or earning rewards for future adventures, TrueBlue members can conveniently shop for eligible award flights operated by Condor, redeem TrueBlue points for these itineraries and earn points by adding their TrueBlue number directly at jetblue.com or the JetBlue mobile app.

FRONTIER, AMERICAโ€™S LOW FARE AIRLINE, COMMITS TO BEING THE #1 LOW FARE CARRIER IN THE TOP 20 U.S. METROS

Introducing New Routes from Fort Lauderdale, Detroit, Baltimore, Houston, Charlotte, and Dallas โ€” with Fares from $29* and Further Growth Expected in 2026 as Industry Capacity Adjusts

DENVER โ€“ August 26, 2025 โ€“ Frontier Airlines (Nasdaq: ULCC), Americaโ€™s Low Fare Airline, today announced it is committing to being the number one low-fare carrier in the top 20 U.S. metro areas. As part of this commitment, Frontier is adding 20 new routes from Detroit, Houston, Baltimore, Fort Lauderdale, Charlotte, and Dallas with fares starting from just $29.* With additional fleet and route expansion on tap for 2026, along with major investments in loyalty and product upgrades, Frontier is Americaโ€™s Low Fare Airline, delivering the best value. 

โ€œFrontier is not just about delivering low fares – weโ€™ve made major enhancements, from product upgrades to the most rewarding loyalty program, and investments in technology and service, as part of The New Frontier,โ€ said Barry Biffle, CEO, Frontier Airlines. โ€œThat’s why Frontier is Americaโ€™s Low Fare Airline, delivering the best value every day – and we see a clear path to being the number one low-fare carrier in the top 20 U.S. metros.โ€ 

Biffle added, โ€œAs industry capacity adjusts, we want to ensure consumers in those markets continue to have affordable flight options.โ€  

NEW DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL ROUTES LAUNCHING IN LATE 2025 THROUGH EARLY 2026 

As part of this expansion, Frontier today announced the following new routes: 

SERVICE:SERVICE START:SERVICE FREQUENCY:  INTRO FARE:
Baltimore (BWI) toCancun (CUN)November 22, 2025Weekly$89*
Baltimore (BWI) to/fromFort Lauderdale (FLL)November 20, 20253x/week$39*
Baltimore (BWI) to/fromHouston (IAH)November 20, 20253x/week$29*
Baltimore (BWI) to/fromNew Orleans (MSY)1February 12, 20262x/week
Charlotte (CLT) to/fromDetroit (DTW)November 23, 20252x/week$49*
Charlotte (CLT) to/fromFort Lauderdale (FLL)November 21, 20253x/week$49*
Dallas (DFW) to/fromFort Lauderdale (FLL)November 20, 20253x/week$39*
Dallas (DFW) to/fromNew Orleans (MSY) 1February 13, 20262x/week
Detroit (DTW) toCancun (CUN)November 22, 2025Weekly$89*
Detroit (DTW) to/fromFort Lauderdale (FLL)November 20, 20253x/week$49*
Detroit (DTW) to/fromHouston (IAH)November 21, 20253x/week$49*
Detroit (DTW) to/fromMiami (MIA)November 21, 20253x/week$49*
Detroit (DTW) to/fromNew Orleans (MSY) 1February 12, 20262x/week
Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to/fromChicago (ORD)November 20, 20253x/week$39*
Houston (IAH) to/fromFort Lauderdale (FLL)November 22, 2025Weekly$29*
Houston (IAH) toGuatemala City, Guatemala (GUA)2December 18, 20253x/week$49*
Houston (IAH) to/fromNew Orleans (MSY) 1February 13, 20262x/week
Houston (IAH) to/fromPhiladelphia (PHL)November 21, 20253x/week$59*
Houston (IAH) toSan Salvador, El Salvador (SAL) 2December 19, 20253x/week$49*
Houston (IAH) toSan Pedro Sula, Honduras (SAP) 2December 20, 2025Weekly$49*

1On sale beginning September 2 

2Subject to government approval 

THE NEW FRONTIER – LOW FARES + MORE CHOICE 

For the past year, The New Frontier has been redefining what it means to fly with Americaโ€™s Low Fare Airline – going beyond low fares to deliver more comfort, more rewards, and more reasons to choose Frontier. The New Frontier continues with new loyalty benefits and upcoming product upgrades that further enhance the value of every trip. 

  • Affordable Comfort Upgrades:ย Customers already enjoy options like UpFront Plus seating, an upgraded seating option with extra leg and elbow room in the first two rows of the aircraft. Additionally, First Class seating debuting in late 2025 will provide unmatched comfort and space at Frontierโ€™s trademark affordable pricesย 
  • The Most Rewarding Loyalty Program:ย FRONTIER Milesย is the most rewarding loyalty program, and this year it gets even better with three new breakthrough benefits:ย 
  • Companion Travel Certificatesย โ€“ย FRONTIER Airlines World Mastercardยฎ cardmembers can earn certificates through everyday purchases: For purchases made between now and January 31, 2026, cardmembers will earn companion travel certificatesย at the following amounts: ย 

o   First certificate at $3,000 in purchases  

o   Second certificate at $10,000 in purchases  

o   Third certificate at $20,000 in purchases  

These new companion certificates are in addition to existing card perks, which include a 50,000-mile welcome bonus after just $500 in spend, as well as the ability to earn Elite Status and miles with every purchase. To learn more and apply, visit www.flyfrontier.com/companion.

  • Miles Match From Other Airlinesย โ€“ย newย members can match up to 1 million miles of their combined mileage balance from multiple qualifying airlines. When you join, Frontier will match the miles youโ€™ve earned with other airlines – you just need to earn that same number of miles with Frontier in the next 12 months to unlock them. To learn more, visitย www.flyfrontier.com/milesmatch. ย 
  • Upgrade From Other Airlines to Frontier Elite Gold Statusย – Frontier is also extending its popular program that enables consumers to upgrade from other airline loyalty programs to Frontier Elite Gold Status: consumers with a Southwest Rapid Rewardsยฎ, JetBlue TrueBlueยฎ, Spirit Free Spiritยฎ, or Alaska Mileage Planโ„ข can unlock instant Elite Gold status at Frontier through December 2026 for just $69*. To learn more and apply, visitย www.flyfrontier.com/goldstatus. ย 

These new benefits build on the foundation of Frontier Miles: 10 miles for every $1 spent, multipliers up to 20X for elites, family pooling, and elite status beginning at just 10,000 miles. 

Together, these innovations show how The New Frontier continues to deliver on a simple promise: low fares plus more ways to travel better and be rewarded for it. 

Korean Air Commits to Record Purchase of 103 Boeing Jets to Modernize Fleet

Delivered on July 19, 2024
Korean Air Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner HL8515 (msn 66878) SEA (Bruce Drum). Image: 106471.

– South Korea’s flag carrier intends to buy 777-9s, 787-10s, 737-10s and 777-8 Freighters to optimize fuel-efficiency across global network

– Commitment will be the largest for the airline, adding to its March 2025 order for 40 Boeing widebody jets


WASHINGTON, Aug. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing [NYSE:BA] and Korean Air announced today the airline’s intent to purchase 103 of Boeing’s fuel-efficient family of airplanes to modernize its fleet and support the carrier’s growth as it fully integrates operations with Asiana Airlines over the next several years.

Korean Air’s commitment will be the airline’s largest-ever order and Boeing’s largest widebody order from an Asian carrier. When finalized, the deal will mark Korean Air’s first order for the 777-8F and will support an estimated 135,000 jobs across the United States. The order will be posted to Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries website once it is completed and includes:

  • 20 777-9s
  • 25 787-10s
  • 50 737-10s
  • 8 777-8 Freighters

“This agreement with our long-standing partners, Boeing and GE, marks a pivotal moment for Korean Air,” said Walter Cho, chairman and CEO of Korean Air. “Acquiring these next-generation aircraft is the core of our fleet modernization strategy, delivering significant gains in fuel efficiency and enhancing the passenger experience across our global network. This investment is also a critical enabler for our future as a merged airline with Asiana, to ensure that our combined carrier is one of the most competitive airlines in the industry.”

Today’s agreement was signed during the Korea-U.S. Business Roundtable “Partnership for a Manufacturing Renaissance,” and presided over by Howard Lutnick, U.S. Secretary of Commerce and Kim Jung-kwan, South Korea’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE).

Korean Air’s orders and commitments for Boeing airplanes in 2025 surpasses 150 units, following the airline’s incremental order in March for 20 777-9s and 20 787-10s.

“We are honored to strengthen our partnership with Korean Air through this landmark agreement, which reflects the value and capabilities of Boeing’s market-leading airplane family,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “As Korean Air transitions to a larger unified carrier, we are committed to supporting the airline’s growth with one of the world’s most efficient fleets.”

Key facts:

  • The 777-9 can seat 426 passengers in a two-class configuration with a range of 13,510 km (7,295 nautical miles) and will reduce fuel use and emissions by 20% compared to the airplanes it will replace.
  • The 787-10 can carry up to 336 passengers with a range of 11,730 km (6,330 nautical miles).
  • The 737-10, the largest model in the 737 MAX family, can carry as many as 230 passengers with a range of up to 5,740 km (3,100 nautical miles), while reducing fuel use and emissions by 20% compared to the airplanes it replaces. The airplane’s efficiency and flexibility will enable Korean Air to serve more passengers on more routes with the lowest cost per seat of any single-aisle airplane.
  • The 777-8 Freighter will be the world’s largest and most capable twin-engine freighter, offering the highest payload and lowest operating cost per tonne of any large freighter and 30% better fuel efficiency and emissions than the airplanes it will replace.

Korean Air currently operates 108 Boeing airplanes including 737s, 747s, 777s and 787s. With 72 Boeing jets on order; the carrier’s order book will grow to 175 airplanes once the deal is finalized. 

Korean Air’s Aerospace Division supplies components for the 787 Dreamliner, including its unique raked wingtip, and produces parts for Boeing’s 737 MAX, 767 and 777 family of airplanes.

A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.