FORT WORTH, Texas — In response to the catastrophic flooding that has devastated communities across central Texas, American Airlines is joining forces with its disaster response partners — the American Red Cross, Airlink and Team Rubicon — to aid relief efforts and support families affected by this heartbreaking disaster.

The flooding in Texas is just one of more than 65,000 disasters the Red Cross responds to each year across the United States. American stands with the Red Cross as they mobilize to offer safe shelter, warm meals and emotional support to those impacted.

How you can help

While American’s partners are on the ground providing aid in Texas, American team members will assemble more than 2,000 care packages for first responders, National Guard and U.S. Coast Guard deployed across the flood zone. Customers can also take action now to support disaster relief efforts and other weather events by donating to the Red Cross. Through July 18, AAdvantage^® members who donate a minimum of $25 to the Red Cross will receive 10 AAdvantage^® miles for every dollar donated.

Donated AAdvantage^® miles enable critical aid missions for Team Rubicon, Airlink and the Red Cross. Members can also donate AAdvantage^® miles through Miles for Social Good to help organizations like these expand their recovery efforts in the aftermath of disasters both big and small.

About American Airlines Group
As a leading global airline, American Airlines offers thousands of flights per day to more than 350 destinations in more than 60 countries. The airline is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members serve more than 900 destinations around the globe. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL. Learn more about what’s happening at American by visiting news.aa.com and connect with American @AmericanAir and at Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines. To Care for People on Life’s Journey^®.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

About Airlink, Inc.
Airlink is a global humanitarian nonprofit organization delivering critical aid to communities in crisis by providing free or discounted airlift and logistical solutions to vetted nonprofit partners, changing how the humanitarian community responds to disasters worldwide. Its network includes over 250 aid organizations and over 50 commercial and charter airlines. Since its inception in 2010, Airlink has flown 14,000 relief workers and transported 18 million pounds of humanitarian cargo, directly helping 63 million people impacted by natural and man-made disasters. In 2025 Airlink celebrates its 15th anniversary. For more information, visit airlinkflight.org and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

About Team Rubicon
Team Rubicon is a veteran-led humanitarian organization that serves global communities before, during, and after disasters and crises. Founded following the Haiti earthquake in 2010, the organization has grown to more than 200,000 volunteers across the United States and has launched over 1,200 operations domestically and internationally. To drive equity across disaster and humanitarian services, Team Rubicon focuses on three areas of impact: disaster response – from mitigation to immediate response to recovery; long term recovery & workforce development —maintaining the fabric of communities through resilient building methods; and medical services – providing emergent and surge health care, WASH, and disaster risk reduction. The organization is featured in the Roku original series titled Team Rubicon, which highlights the work of Greyshirt volunteers assisting communities across the country. Visit http://www.teamrubiconusa.org for more information.

To our valued readers,

At World Airline News, our mission has always been to bring you the most engaging, accurate, and timely stories in the world of commercial aviation. Whether it’s breaking route news, fleet updates, or the deeper historical context behind today’s headlines, all driven with the power of AirlinersGallery.com Color Photo Library, your enthusiasm and support have fueled our growth and kept this platform soaring.

Today, we’re excited to share a few important updates that mark another exciting chapter in our journey.

First, a heartfelt thank you to our global community of readers, contributors, and industry professionals. Your continued engagement—through every story share, tip submission, and insightful comment—helps us remain a trusted source for aviation news worldwide. We’re honored to be part of your daily routine, whether you’re on the tarmac or reading from your flight deck at home.

Second, we’re thrilled to announce a new partnership with Kore Aviation, a company committed to elevating the in-flight experience for aviators everywhere. At Kore Aviation, they specialize in premium yet affordable aviation headsets designed to deliver both comfort and performance. Whether you’re a seasoned commercial pilot or an aspiring private flyer, Kore’s headsets are engineered to bring clarity and focus to every journey. We’re proud to align with a brand that reflects our own commitment to quality and value in aviation.

Finally, we’re beyond excited to welcome Shea Oakley as a special guest contributor to World Airline News. Shea will be contributing historical posts on Fridays for the remainder of the summer.

Shea has been immersed in the world of commercial aviation history for decades, having joined the World Airline Historical Society at just 15 years old. He later co-founded the Tri-State Airline Historical Society and launched “Airliners Northeast,” the first airline collectibles show in the New York area, held at Newark Airport.

With a prolific writing career that spans print and digital outlets, Shea has been a central figure in preserving and interpreting the legacy of American commercial flight. As former Executive Director of the Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey, and now founder of The Commercial Aviation History Consultancy, Shea brings unmatched insight and historical expertise to his writing. He is regularly interviewed for his knowledge, including in high-profile pieces like this recent feature for Travel Weekly: 100 years of airline survival: Delta, American, United.

Please join us in giving Shea a warm welcome to the World Airline News family. His contributions will not only inform but inspire, connecting past to present in ways that deepen our understanding of this ever-evolving industry.

Thank you again for flying with us. The best is yet to come.

– The World Airline News Team

·       Four non-stop flights weekly to Lima, two each from Montreal and Toronto

·       First Canadian carrier offering non-stop service- to Mexico’s buzzworthy Puerto Escondido from Toronto and a new route to Tepic, Riviera Nayarit from Vancouver

·       Weekly non-stop flights from Montreal to Belize

MONTREAL, July 9, 2025 – Air Canada today announced it is further expanding its winter 2025-26 network by resuming non-stop service to Lima, Peru with twice weekly flights from both Montreal and Toronto. The airline is also adding three new routes to Central America and Mexico including, Montreal-Belize, Toronto-Puerto Escondido*, and Vancouver-Tepic, Riviera Nayarit*, building on its recent Latin America expansion announcement.  Flights are now available for sale at aircanada.com, through Air Canada Contact Centres, and via travel agents.

“Air Canada is further diversifying its global network this winter under its New Frontiers Strategy by capitalizing on strong leisure demand to sought-after vacation destinations in South and Central America and in Mexico’s Oaxaca and Pacific coast areas. Our new flights are designed to provide easy connections for both Canadian and European travellers, as well as to take advantage of cargo opportunities in the region,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer, and President, Cargo at Air Canada.

“Customers will have even more compelling choices when planning vacation travel this winter. From Peru’s rich history and archaeological ruins, the legendary Belize Barrier Reef, or Mexico’s vibrant and rapidly emerging hidden gem vacation spots, Air Canada is proud to bring new and exciting destinations for our customers to explore. We look forward to welcoming you onboard our award-winning airline soon,” concluded Mr. Galardo.

Air Canada’s newest Mexico routes are opening doors to some of the country’s buzzworthy and under the radar vacation destinations. Puerto Escondido, nestled along Oaxaca’s stunning Pacific coast, is a laid-back surf haven renowned for its golden beaches and extraordinary waves. With new direct flights from Toronto, this bohemian paradise will now be within easy reach for Canadian travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path charm.

On Mexico’s western coast, Air Canada’s new Vancouver-Tepic, Riviera Nayarit service opens a fresh gateway to the Riviera Nayarit—timed perfectly with the completion of a new highway linking Tepic to Puerto Vallarta in October 2025. Oceanfront gems such as artistic San Pancho, surf-friendly Sayulita, and upscale Punta Mita will be within a convenient 30-minute to one-hour drive from Tepic’s airport. This new route offers travellers an alternative point of access to explore the vibrant landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural tapestry that make Nayarit one of Mexico’s most captivating regions.

This winter, Air Canada will offer over 80,000 weekly seats on more than 55 daily flights to 52 destinations in Latin America and the Caribbean, representing the greatest number of sun destinations the airline has served.

Air Canada’s flights to Peru:

Air Canada’s new Central America and Mexico winter routes:

*The sale of air tickets in these routes is subject and condition to the prior authorization of the government of Mexico.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, where members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers more travel choices than any other Canadian tour operator to hundreds of destinations worldwide, with a wide selection of hotels, flights, cruises, day tours, and car rentals. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. For additional information, please see Air Canada’s TCFD disclosure. Air Canada shares are publicly traded on the TSX in Canada and the OTCQX in the US.

BermudAir is updating its Charleston, South Carolina route with non-stop service to Charleston International Airport for the late summer season, expanding from a once-weekly Saturday flight to a more convenient twice-weekly service on Thursdays and Sundays, effective August 7, 2025. The final Saturday flight will operate on August 2, 2025, with the revised schedule running through October. This seasonal adjustment provides greater choice and flexibility for both Bermudians and visitors travelling between Bermuda and the U.S. Southeast.

The service flight times will operate as follows:
• BDA to CHS: 3:15 PM – 4:45 PM
• CHS to BDA: 5:45 PM – 8:55 PM

The route update coincides with the expansion of BermudAir Holidays, which now offers curated travel packages for both inbound and outbound travellers. This means Bermuda residents can now book ideal getaways to any destination, including Charleston through BermudAir Holidays, benefitting from bundled rates on accommodations and experiences in this historic, charming, and coastal city.

“We’re always listening to our customers and evolving our offerings to suit their needs,” said Adam Scott, Founder & CEO of BermudAir. “With added frequency on this route and new vacation packages available in both directions, travellers now have even more ways to enjoy the best of Bermuda and the Carolinas.”

“The addition of a second nonstop BermudAir flight between Charleston and Bermuda marks a significant enhancement in air service for both destinations,” said Elliott Summey, President and CEO of Charleston International Airport. “This expansion not only offers increased opportunities for Charlestonians to enjoy the renowned beauty of Bermuda’s pink sand beaches but also allows more Bermudians to experience the rich history, culture, and hospitality of the Holy City. This expanded service is more than just added convenience—it’s an economic win that strengthens tourism, business, and the growing bond between our two vibrant destinations.”

BermudAir is also proud to be working collaboratively with tourism partners in Charleston to develop attractive packages for Bermudians seeking a southern coastal escape. This enhanced partnership reflects a shared commitment to providing a welcoming and enjoyable experience for travellers, regardless of their final destination.

“The expansion of service to twice weekly is notable in multiple ways. It indicates the early success of this new flight and airline in our market, reinforces the desirability of the two destinations, demonstrates continued growth in our BermudAir partnership, and creates more opportunities for Charleston area residents and visitors alike to take advantage of this international route,” said Helen Hill, President and CEO of Explore Charleston and Chair of the Charleston Regional Aviation Authority.

To launch the expanded service, BermudAir is offering up to 25% off Thursday flights in August with promo code CHS25. Travellers can also inquire about exclusive Stay & Play access at Kiawah Island, including preferred golf and accommodation options, available on request by contacting holidays@flybermudair.com.

For more details or to book, visit flybermudair.com or for travellers seeking a personalised experience, including flight bookings, accommodations, and activities, visit www.bermudairholidays.com.

New Wednesday flight from New York/Newark launches October 29, just in time for travelers to enjoy Dominica’s winter campaign

ROSEAU, Dominica – July 8, 2025 – Today, the Discover Dominica Authority announced that United Airlines will expand its nonstop service from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Dominica’s Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM), with a second weekly flight launching October 29, 2025. The new Wednesday service complements the existing Saturday flight and offers travelers increased flexibility to book three-, four- or seven-night escapes to Dominica for the upcoming winter travel season.

“The addition of a second non-stop flight from New York to Dominica opens the door for even more travelers to experience the natural beauty, adventure, and warm hospitality that defines our island,” said Hon. Denise Charles-Pemberton, Dominica’s Minister of Tourism. “The tri-state area has long been one of our most important U.S. markets, and we’re excited to make it even easier for visitors from this region to discover all that Dominica has to offer.”

Following the successful launch of United Airlines’ inaugural non-stop service in February, demand for travel to Dominica has soared, solidifying its status as a must-visit destination in the Caribbean. The expanded service comes as Dominica experiences a wave of growth, investment and innovation. In December, the island will debut the world’s longest detachable cable car, spanning more than four miles and connecting the Roseau Valley to the iconic Boiling Lake in just 20 minutes – transforming a six-hour hike into an accessible rainforest experience. Additionally, multiple new hotels and resorts are slated to open through 2026, significantly increasing the island’s hotel offerings and further enhancing the visitor experience.

The launch of this new flight comes just in time for Dominica’s winter travel season, supporting the destination’s upcoming winter campaign, which will feature special offers and curated experiences for travelers escaping the cold. More details about the campaign will be shared soon

ARLINGTON, Va., July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] announced today major program deliveries across its commercial and defense operations for the second quarter of 2025.

The company will provide detailed second quarter financial results on July 29. Major program deliveries during the second quarter were as follows:

– Star Alliance Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Lounge also honoured as the World’s Best Airline Alliance Lounge for the second year running

– 14 Star Alliance member airlines claim a total of 62 top awards

SINGAPORE – JULY 8, 2025 – On June 17, 2025, Star Alliance was once again voted the World’s Best Airline Alliance for the fourth consecutive year at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, taking its total tally of the title to 13 times out of 18 when the category was first introduced in 2005.

The Star Alliance Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Lounge also retained its title as the World’s Best Airline Alliance Lounge – marking a second consecutive win since its inauguration in October 2023.
 

Marking the milestone, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias said: “This continued recognition is incredibly significant to all of us at Star Alliance. It reflects the trust millions of customers place in our member airlines, connected by a rhythm, to create smoother journeys every day.”

Mr Panagiotoulias also congratulated the member airline employees across the network and continued: “This achievement reflects the shared commitment to excellence shown by every employee at Star Alliance and across our member airlines throughout a promising 2024. I proudly accept this honour on their behalf and encourage them to keep aiming higher in the year ahead and beyond.”

The awards were presented at the Paris Air Show, held at the historic Le Bourget Airport. In addition to the two Alliance awards, 14 member airlines were also recognised with a total of 62 top honours in individual categories.

Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax said: “We are pleased to recognise Star Alliance as the World’s Best Airline Alliance, and for having the Best Airline Alliance Lounge at Paris Charles de Gaulle. These awards speak to the alliance’s continued efforts to create a joined-up experience that appeals to today’s international passenger, both in the air and on the ground.”

Known as the “Oscars of the aviation industry,” the Skytrax World Airline Awards are based on millions of customer surveys from travellers around the world. This year’s results reflect over 22 million eligible entries gathered between September 2024 and May 2025.

TAIPEI,Taiwan and NEW YORK, July 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — China Airlines (CAL), a Taiwan-based carrier, will begin operations at The New Terminal One at New York John F. Kennedy International Airport in 2026, launching an elevated travel experience for its valued customers. The long-term partnership between China Airlines and the New Terminal One will support the carrier’s ambition to expand its network in North America, transforming the customer experience at one of the airline’s top international gateways.

The New Terminal One is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of JFK Airport into a world-class gateway, which will include two new terminals, the modernization and expansion of two existing terminals, a new ground transportation center, and an entirely new, simplified roadway network.

China Airlines currently operates four weekly flights from JFK to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport on Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. In 2026, the airline will move its operations to the New Terminal One, ushering in an enhanced travel experience in New York, home to one of the largest Taiwanese communities abroad.

“We are honored to partner with China Airlines as they embark on this exciting new chapter in their New York operations. With a shared commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences, we look forward to a long-term partnership with China Airlines as they grow their presence in North America,” said Jennifer Aument, CEO, The New Terminal One at JFK.

“With such a promising future of The New Terminal One at JFK, China Airlines also hopes for an efficient construction of the facilities. We look forward to utilizing the latest technology to promote China Airlines and share the excitement of Taiwan with our customers,” said Kevin Chen, President of China Airlines.

China Airlines customers can look forward to a seamless journey when flying out of the New Terminal One. Offering the latest technology, world-class retail and dining, and exceptional guest service, the New Terminal One will provide an unmatched travel experience for China Airlines passengers in the iconic city of New York.

With a strong commitment to enhance its customer experience, China Airlines has invested significantly in its fleet, network and inflight service.

China Airlines operates nonstop flights to six North American destinations, offering more than 40 return flights from its hub in Taiwan Taoyuan. With nearly 500 weekly flights, China Airlines ensures strong connectivity for transfer passengers traveling between Asia and North America. In addition to passenger services, China Airlines also operates a strong cargo network, serving 12 destinations across North America.

As a member of the SkyTeam global airline alliance, China Airlines joins four fellow SkyTeam carriers – Air France, KLM, Korean Air and SAS – in selecting the New Terminal One as their new home. The other carriers that form the growing community of leading airlines that will operate at the New Terminal One include Etihad, LOT Polish Airlines, EVA Air, Air Serbia, Neos, Philippine Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Air New Zealand, Royal Air Maroc and Air China.

About The New Terminal One

The New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport is a bold and exciting project to develop a best-in-class international terminal that will serve as an anchor terminal in the Port Authority’s $19 billion transformation of JFK into a global gateway to the New York metropolitan area and the United States. The New Terminal One will set a new standard for design and service, aspiring to obtain a Top 5 Skytrax ranking.

The New Terminal One is being built on sites now occupied by Terminal 1 and the former Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, where it will anchor JFK’s south side. Construction is taking place in phases with full completion in 2030. The first phase, including the new arrivals and departures halls and first set of 14 new gates, is expected to open in 2026. At completion in 2030, the New Terminal One, with a total of 23 gates, will be 2.6 million square feet, making it the largest terminal at JFK and nearly the same size as LaGuardia Airport’s two new terminals combined.

The New Terminal One consortium of labor, operating, and financial partners is led by Ferrovial, JLC Infrastructure, Ullico, and Carlyle. The New Terminal One is being built by union labor and is committed to local inclusion and labor participation, focusing on diversity and capacity-building opportunities, including a commitment to target participation goals of 20% for minority-owned business enterprises, 10% for women-owned business enterprises, 10% for local business enterprises and 3% for service-disabled veteran-owned businesses.

The upgraded cabin debuts on October 3^rd on the new Taipei-Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) route

Photo Credit: EVA Air 

DALLAS, U.S. (July 07, 2025) – EVA Air, the world’s first airline to introduce Premium Economy Class in 1992, is set to debut its all-new fourth-generation Premium Economy in the United States this fall. Launching on October 3rd, the redesigned cabin will make its U.S. premiere on the inaugural flight of EVA Air’s new Taipei–Dallas Fort Worth route, offering American travelers their first opportunity to experience the airline’s most advanced Premium Economy product to date—designed with enhanced comfort, upgraded technology, and thoughtful, sustainable features.

The new Dallas-Fort Worth route, announced earlier this year, expands EVA Air’s growing U.S. network and marks a significant milestone as the airline becomes the first Asian carrier to serve two cities in Texas.  The route will commence with three weekly flights using the fuel-efficient Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in a three-class configuration. Frequency will increase to five flights per week starting November 18, with daily service launching on December 15.

“We’re thrilled to introduce our fourth-generation Premium Economy to the U.S. market, starting with our new Dallas-Fort Worth service,” said Andrew Su, Executive Vice President of EVA Air North America. “This product evolution reflects our commitment to providing passengers with greater comfort and convenience, while addressing growing demand for a more spacious and refined long-haul travel experience. Dallas-Fort Worth is a vibrant hub with strong business and cultural ties to Asia, making it a fitting location to debut this upgraded offering.”

EVA Air’s new Premium Economy cabin, first revealed earlier this year, represents a significant leap forward in the airline’s cabin innovation. The redesigned section features 28 seats in a 2-3-2 layout, with an industry-leading seat pitch of 42 inches, a cradle-style recline that maximizes personal space, and premium leather finishes for added luxury. Passengers will also enjoy a 15.6-inch HD touchscreen, adjustable tray tables designed for digital devices, individual power outlets, ample storage, and privacy panels designed to enhance both comfort and functionality during long-haul flights. Improved accessibility features have also been integrated to support a broader range of passenger needs.

Beyond seating, EVA Air has elevated the Premium Economy experience with thoughtfully curated amenities and a strong focus on sustainability. Passengers will enjoy plush pillows, eco-friendly double-sided blankets, high-quality headphones, and stylish in-flight tableware crafted in partnership with renowned Italian brand Guzzini. Bamboo fiber napkins and other sustainable service items reflect the airline’s environmental commitment, while Royal Laurel Class toiletries, deep gray velvet slippers, and gourmet snacks like mixed nuts and dried fruits add a refined touch at 30,000 feet.

This dedication to quality and innovation has earned EVA Air SKYTRAX’s prestigious Five-Star Airline certification for the tenth consecutive year. The airline also received 11 SKYTRAX awards, including top honors for “Best Economy Class Catering” and “World’s Cleanest Airline,” further affirming its dedication to quality, comfort, and service at every cabin level.

This U.S. debut highlights EVA Air’s longstanding leadership in the Premium Economy category, which it introduced to the industry over 30 years ago. The rollout of the fourth-generation cabin marks a key step in the airline’s broader initiative to refresh its long-haul offerings and adapt to the changing needs of modern travelers. By blending innovation, sustainability, and award-winning service, EVA Air is redefining the trans-Pacific travel experience—delivering a product that harmonizes comfort, practicality, and environmental responsibility.

Increased service to Latin America, the Caribbean and Asia complements added capacity for key Canadian cities

CALGARY, AB, July 7, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet revealed its 2025/2026 winter schedule, featuring five new destinations. While departures will increase by three per cent year-over-year, capacity will be consistent with last winter, as seats will be removed from former Sunwing/Swoop aircraft, which will be updated to WestJet’s standard configuration before the start of winter.

This winter, WestJet will operate 305 total routes and serve 62 Latin American, Caribbean, and US sun destinations, delivering more affordable opportunities for Canadians to escape the cold and enjoy sun-filled getaways. With both flight-only options through WestJet, and vacation packages through Sunwing Vacations Group, WestJet leads sun travel from Canada.

“Canadians want value while escaping the cold, and WestJet’s 2025/2026 winter schedule delivers on both affordability and choice,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. “By expanding our sun network, strengthening key routes and growing strategically across Canada and internationally, WestJet is coming through for Canadians by connecting them to the destinations they love at prices they can afford. In fact, 71 per cent of WestJet’s non-stop services are currently priced lower than they were in 2024.”

New destinations and routes

The schedule adds new destinations Panama City, Panama; Guadalajara, Mexico; Tepic (Nayarit), Mexico; Havana, Cuba; and Managua, Nicaragua. The schedule also marks Mexico City’s first winter season of operation since becoming a year-round service.

Seat capacity across the Latin America and Caribbean region is scheduled to grow by six per cent, with popular vacation hotspots like Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic and Mexico in focus for new route growth.

Returning routes for Winter 2025/26

Samaná, Dominican Republic, previously offered only through Sunwing Airlines, will now be offered by WestJet, connecting guests to one of the Caribbean’s fastest-growing eco-tourism regions, known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. WestJet also returns service to four additional routes, while restarting seasonal service to dozens of Canada’s favourite winter destinations.

Strengthening Asia connectivity

In addition to sun expansion, WestJet is continuing its growth in international markets. Service between the airline’s global hub in Calgary and Tokyo (Narita) will increase from three to seven flights per week, enabling daily connectivity to Asia and contributing to 18 per cent year-over-year in intercontinental growth.

“We’re prioritizing flexibility, optionality and value to meet Canadians’ demand to visit warm weather destinations. With a peak of over 4,300 weekly departures to 106 destinations planned this winter, there’s something for everyone!” added Weatherill.

WestJet’s full winter 2025/26 schedule is available for booking from July 14, 2025.

Additional quotes

Panama City (PTY) – Gloria De León Zubieta, Minister of Tourism of Panama.

“We are pleased to welcome WestJet’s upcoming service between Calgary and Panama City, which represents more than a new route, it is an opportunity for Panama to further connect with a high value market like Canada and continue positioning itself as a strategic hub in the region. This connection supports our national goal of attracting more international visitors, and showcasing Panama as a destination that bridges continents, cultures, and opportunities,” stated Gloria De León Zubieta, Minister of Tourism of Panama.

Tepic/Nayarit (TPQ) – Javier García Bejos, CEO of AME (Aeropuertos Mexicanos)

“This new direct service from Calgary represents much more than just an air connection: This is the result of years of work in conjunction with WestJet, a strategic airline in the Canadian market and a key player in the international expansion of the Riviera Nayarit. Thanks to the new Riviera Nayarit International Airport and historic levels of investment in the regional infrastructure, we can now offer a modern, efficient gateway that is perfectly connected to Mexico’s top destinations such as Sayulita, Tequila, Punta Mita, and San Blas, with travel times shorter than ever before.

The region is undergoing an unprecedented transformation: tourism is growing, investment is flowing, and we are laying the foundations for sustainable, inclusive, and high-value development in Nayarit.”

Tepic/Nayarit (TPQ) – Miguel Ángel Navarro Quintero, Governor of Nayarit

“We are pleased to announce the launch of a new direct route between Calgary and the Tepic–Riviera Nayarit International Airport, operated by WestJet. This historic flight marks the first direct connection between Canada and the state of Nayarit, representing a major milestone in the expansion of international tourism to the region. This new route makes it easier for Canadian travelers to explore the rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and sunny beaches of the Riviera Nayarit and the entire state. We look forward to welcoming more visitors to experience the warmth, beauty, and vibrant traditions that make Nayarit a truly unique destination.”

Guadalajara (GDL) – Raúl Revuelta Musalem, CEO of Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico

“The launch of this new route to Calgary, operated by a renowned airline like WestJet, not only expands travel options but also drives an increase in tourist arrivals to the state of Jalisco. In line with our expansion plans, we continue to create optimal conditions for Guadalajara Airport to position itself as a strategic hub for operations targeting the Canadian market,” said Raúl Revuelta Musalem, CEO of Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico.

Havana (HAV) – Cuban Aviation Corporation

“The Cuban Aviation Corporation enthusiastically welcomes the announcement of WestJet’s operations to Havana this winter. This new service represents a significant step in strengthening ties between Canada and Cuba, and will facilitate the access of more Canadian visitors to the Cuban capital, contributing to the recovery and revitalization of the national tourism sector.

We warmly welcome WestJet and wish it every success in this new era, convinced that its presence will contribute to the sustainable growth of tourism and aviation in Cuba.”

WestJet Cargo – Amanda Ierfino, Vice-President of Sales & Cargo, WestJet

“WestJet’s 2025/2026 winter schedule marks a pivotal moment for our growing belly cargo operations,” said Amanda Ierfino, WestJet Vice-President, Sales and Cargo. ” With expanded capacity and increasing momentum, we expect strong cargo demand across new routes to Guadalajara, Managua, Samaná and Havana. The launch of daily service to Tokyo is particularly exciting, as it presents robust two-way trade potential in high-value sectors such as electronics, automotive components, machinery and premium perishables like seafood and fresh fruit.”

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.

As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians.