Air Niugini, the national carrier of Papua New Guinea, has taken delivery of its first A220-300 aircraft, on lease from Azorra. The airline becomes the 25th global operator of the A220, which is now flying with carriers on five continents.

The aircraft, dubbed “People’s Balus”, departed the Airbus Final Assembly Line in Mirabel for a delivery flight to Port Moresby, with scheduled stops in Vancouver, Honolulu and Fiji. The delivery represents a significant milestone in Air Niugini’s fleet modernisation programme, with  eight A220-100s on direct order with Airbus and three A220-300s being leased from Azorra.

The aircraft’s special livery marks the 50th Anniversary of the Independence of Papua New Guinea. The intricate design was brought to life by a dedicated Airbus team of 120 painters who worked to apply 11 distinct colours using a special airbrushing technique.

This delivery highlights the A220’s strong  position in its segment, combining the longest range (6,700km) with the lowest fuel consumption in its class, – 25% less than previous-generation aircraft. The A220-100, which serves the 100-135 seat market, is a crucial component of this modern airliner family, while the larger A220-300 is tailored for the 120-160 seat segment. This Air Niugini A220-300 is configured to accommodate a total of 138 passengers, a testament to its flexibility and suitability for the carrier’s network.

The A220 is poised to become the centrepiece of the airline’s regional and international fleet, providing a new level of operational efficiency and passenger comfort. Its unmatched efficiency, coupled with a spacious cabin and the range to connect various destinations, positions it as an exemplary fit for the carrier’s network and its overarching objectives for long-term growth.

The airframe integrates 40% advanced materials, resulting in a lighter-weight aircraft. The A220 also incorporates optimised aerodynamics with a newly designed nose and tail cone, both of which contribute to reducing drag. In fact, the A220 has the smallest fuselage wetted area -the surface directly in contact with the air- in its class.

The A220 is powered by Pratt & Whitney’s latest-generation GTF™ engines, offering a 25% reduction in carbon emissions per seat compared with previous-generation aircraft. As with all Airbus aircraft, the A220 is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with a target for all aircraft to be capable of operating with up to 100% SAF by 2030.

As of the end of August 2025, Airbus has secured more than 940 orders for the A220 from over 30 customers, and has delivered over 440 aircraft. The A220 is already flying on more than 1,800 routes to more than 480 destinations worldwide, confirming its leading position in the small single-aisle market.

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Airline grows its Golden State footprint to 14 airports  

DALLAS, Sept. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — It’s a September surprise as Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) is announcing service to Santa Rosa, California’s Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS) is set to begin April 7, 2026, with initial flights available for purchase tomorrow morning at Southwest.com^®. 

“We aren’t slowing down in our pursuit to provide Customers with more options than ever before,” said Andrew Watterson, Chief Operating Officer at Southwest Airlines. “Adding Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport to our route map provides more access to California’s famed Wine Country for our Customers and further solidifies our yearslong commitment to California.” 

Seeing Red: Woods and Wines
Inaugural service for Southwest Airlines^® at Santa Rosa (Sonoma County), California, will connect nonstop to San Diego, Las Vegas, Denver, and Burbank, California. The San Diego and Las Vegas routes are set to operate daily, including two San Diego roundtrips on peak days. Burbank will initially operate five days per week and Denver will operate on Saturdays only. 

The airline previously announced new service to St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands; Knoxville, Tennessee; and St. Maarten, all scheduled to begin throughout the first half of 2026. The airline intends to moor another new destination to its route map soon. 

California Here We Come  
Southwest^® offers, without regional carriers, more intra-California service than any other airline.¹ It also leads in available seats, daily departures, and proudly carries the most passengers in the Golden State.¹  

STS, the airport adorned with the beloved cartoon characters, will be the 14th in Southwest’s California catalog, connecting Wine Country to the soon-to-open new Terminal 1 in San Diego, as well as the reimagined Hollywood Burbank Airport on Southwest marketed- and operated-flights.

Airline continues to strengthen its South Florida presence with nine new routes and added flying on high-demand routes

Fort Lauderdale’s number one carrier offers largest schedule from FLL in the airline’s history

To celebrate its 113 peak daily departures from Fort Lauderdale, airline offers fares for $113 or less to any nonstop FLL destination

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU) today announced another major expansion of its service at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), cementing its position as the airport’s number one airline with the most departures this winter with a peak of 113 per day. Starting in November, JetBlue plans to launch new nonstop service from Fort Lauderdale to nine more destinations across the U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean, including the intent to serve Cali, Colombia—a brand new destination for the airline.

New Routes from FLL:

• Cali, Colombia (CLO) ¹
• Aruba (AUA) ^1,2
• Cartagena, Colombia (CTG) ^1,2
• Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands (GCM) ^1,2
• Liberia, Costa Rica (LIR) ¹
• New Orleans (MSY) ²
• Pittsburgh (PIT) ²
• San Pedro Sula, Honduras (SAP) ¹
• St. Maarten (SXM) ^1,2

“As the top airline in Fort Lauderdale, with more departures than any other carrier on peak travel days, JetBlue is proud to keep raising the bar for customers in South Florida and to continue bringing them to the places they want to go,” said Dave Jehn, JetBlue’s vice president, network planning and airline partnerships. “By adding new routes and expanding service to top destinations, we’re giving travelers more opportunities to enjoy the comfort, quality service and value that sets JetBlue apart.”

“We are truly excited and welcome this expansion with open arms,” said Mark E. Gale, FLL CEO/Director of Aviation. “With the addition of seven international and two domestic routes from FLL, this gives South Floridians more convenient and cost-effective ways to visit and enjoy these cities, whether traveling for business or leisure.”

JetBlue’s award-winning customer experience continues to resonate strongly with travelers in South Florida, where the airline has become the hands-down leader in both comfort and value. With free high-speed Wi-Fi, seatback entertainment at every seat, complimentary snacks and drinks, and the premium Mint^® experience on select routes, JetBlue delivers the features travelers love at a price that makes sense.³ This unique combination of quality and affordability has made JetBlue the preferred choice for South Florida customers who expect more from their travel experience.

To celebrate the airline’s 113 peak daily flights from Fort Lauderdale later this year, customers can now enjoy fares starting at $113 or less from Fort Lauderdale to any of the 46 nonstop destinations JetBlue will serve this fall.⁴

More Flying to Popular Destinations

With today’s announcement, JetBlue is taking another major step forward as it grows its schedule to its largest-ever at FLL. In addition to the nine new routes, the airline will also increase service on nine popular existing routes to give South Florida customers even more choices to:

• Atlanta (ATL)
• Hartford, Conn. (BDL)
• Boston (BOS)
• San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU)
• Cancún, Mexico (CUN)
• Kingston, Jamaica (KIN) ¹
• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ)
• San José, Costa Rica (SJO) ¹
• Santiago, Dominican Republic (STI) ¹

All of these new routes and additional service, apart from Cali, Colombia, are available to book now on jetblue.com and the JetBlue mobile app.

Building on a Legacy at FLL

Fort Lauderdale, JetBlue’s first destination, has grown with the airline for a quarter of a century and remains a key focus city and major gateway to popular spots across Latin America and the Caribbean. In April, JetBlue announced new service from FLL to Guayaquil, Ecuador and Philadelphia. Then in July, JetBlue announced a further FLL expansion with new service to Atlanta, Austin, Norfolk and Tampa, along with expanded Mint^® service, JetBlue’s premium travel experience featuring lie-flat seats, curated dining and added comfort.

To support all its growth, JetBlue is proud to announce plans to open a dedicated Mint base for inflight crewmembers in Fort Lauderdale in early 2026. These steps underscore JetBlue’s deep commitment to South Florida.

Since the beginning of the year, JetBlue has added 17 new routes from Fort Lauderdale. By December, JetBlue will reach 113 daily departures during peak travel times to 46 nonstop destinations, further strengthening its leadership position at FLL and giving South Florida customers unmatched choice and convenience.

These investments reflect JetBlue’s commitment to respond with strategic growth to opportunities to best serve its customers and continue to build the best East Coast leisure network in line with its JetForward strategy.

Full List of Additional FLL Flying Announced Today:

About JetBlue

Ongoing education and talent development to meet future demand of expanding aviation hub

CALGARY, AB, Sept. 10, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet and CAE announced today the signing of a 15-year training agreement under which CAE will establish the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence (the Centre) for Aviation and Aerospace—a cutting-edge aviation training facility in Calgary, subject to customary contingencies. Slated to open in 2028, the 126,000 square foot facility will house eight full-flight simulators, with capacity for expansion, alongside cabin trainers and state of the art digital learning tools. WestJet will be the Centre’s primary commercial airline customer and be the first to schedule initial and recurrent training for pilots and cabin crew on Boeing 737MAX, 737NG, 787 Dreamliner, and De Havilland Dash 8-400 (Q400) aircraft.  In partnership with Mount Royal University (MRU), the facility will be the first of its kind in Canada to combine state-of-the-art training equipment with collaborative research and development initiatives.

“WestJet’s commitment to being the first commercial airline customer at the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence is testament to our investment in our current and future WestJetters and in Calgary as an aviation hub,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer of the WestJet Group. “This 15-year contract is a significant commitment that will ensure our people receive the highest standard of training for years to come, and we’re very pleased to join forces with CAE, a global leader in aviation training and fellow Canadian company, to bring this project to life.”

“Today marks a proud moment for CAE and for Canadian aviation,” said Matthew Bromberg, CAE’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “The Alberta Training Centre of Excellence represents what’s possible when industry, academia, and government come together with a shared vision for innovation, safety, and workforce development. As global demand for aviation professionals accelerates, this centre positions Canada to remain at the forefront of training excellence. I am grateful to our partners for their trust and collaboration in shaping the future of aviation.”

“We’re honoured to take our longstanding partnership with WestJet to new heights and thank them for their continued trust and confidence,” said Michel Azar-Hmouda, CAE Division President, Commercial Aviation. “The Alberta Training Centre of Excellence marks a major milestone in CAE’s growth in Western Canada and underscores our commitment to being where our customers need us most. This achievement is also a testament to the collaboration and support of our government and industry partners, whose contributions helped bring this vision to life. We look forward to welcoming pilots and cabin crew to this state-of-the-art facility, proudly supporting these professionals for the moments that matter.”

A centerpiece of Calgary’s aviation hub

This initiative marks CAE’s expansion into Western Canada and anchors Calgary as a strategic hub for aviation workforce development. The high-quality training environment will support WestJet’s growing workforce, as well as personnel from other carriers, and will also serve the next generation of commercial aviators from Mount Royal University (MRU).

The facility is also expected to generate new jobs in construction, education and training, and will support both WestJet and CAE’s commitment to safety and operational excellence while driving economic opportunity and global connectivity for travel, trade and commerce.

Construction will begin later this year, with training operations and ongoing research and development initiatives launching upon completion in 2028.

Meeting the demand for aviation talent

WestJet’s long-term expansion strategy depends on a robust talent pipeline, and MRU’s collaboration with WestJet at the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence will expose prospective professionals to commercial aviation through an Airline Transition Program (ATP) to be launched soon. The program will combine specialty training for MRU aviation students from WestJet with allocated simulator training time at the facility.

CAE will lead the design, development, and ongoing operation of the Centre, with MRU taking a leading role as the primary post-secondary collaborator by contributing academic research expertise and supporting mentorship and career-integrated student learning opportunities in partnership with both CAE and WestJet.

The agreement to develop the Centre of Excellence builds on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between WestJet and the Government of Alberta, signed in 2022, to drive economic recovery and growth through the aerospace, aviation and logistics sectors in the province.

Additional quotes

Government of Alberta – “The Training Centre of Excellence is about more than supporting one project. It is about securing Alberta’s place as a leader in aviation for decades to come. From training pilots to advancing aerospace technology, Alberta is stepping up to ensure our province is not only keeping pace with global demand but setting the standard for excellence. Calgary will be recognized worldwide as a hub of aviation expertise, and Alberta will be known as the place where talent, innovation and opportunity come together to power the future of flight,” said Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta.

“Our government is excited to help make the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence in aviation and aerospace a reality here in Calgary. This investment is a result of our focus on making Alberta the best place to do business. Low corporate taxes, reduced red tape, and competitive incentive programs like the Investment and Growth Fund continue to attract world-class investments, support workforce development, create jobs, and grow the economy,” said Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration.

Mount Royal University – “Mount Royal University is excited to partner with CAE and WestJet in shaping the future of aviation training, accelerating the path from first flight to a career in the industry. Through this collaboration, students will experience transformative opportunities—including advanced training programs, access to advanced simulators, CAE scholarships, and networking and mentorship from industry leaders.

Combining cutting-edge simulation technologies with integrated teaching and research initiatives will elevate our Aviation programs and empower the next generation of aviation professionals to lead with safety, innovation, and excellence,” said Mount Royal University president and vice-chancellor, Dr. Tim Rahilly.”

The City of Calgary – “Calgary is positioning itself as a national leader in aerospace innovation, and this $6.9 million investment marks a pivotal step forward,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “By developing local talent, advancing research and supporting industry collaboration, we’re helping solve national challenges while building a more resilient and future-focused economy as Canada’s inland port.”

Calgary Airports – “The development and construction of the Alberta Centre for Excellence is a major step forward in establishing Calgary and Alberta as a leader in critical aviation infrastructure,” says Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO of Calgary Airports. “Envisioned at Calgary Airports, it will be  a cornerstone in YYC AeroNex, a future-focused network of facilities that connects technology, innovation, infrastructure and education to transform our local economy and build the next generation of aviation professionals.” 

Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund – “Today marks another important step in making our city and our region an aviation hub. The Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF), along with our partners at the Government of Alberta, CAE, WestJet, and Mount Royal University, is committed to help build the aviation workforce of tomorrow. Through OCIF, we’re helping do what Calgary does best: connecting bold ideas with the right people together to make amazing things happen and to build a strong, resilient economic future for our city.” said Brad Parry, CEO and President, Calgary Economic Development and CEO, Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund.

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.

• Firm order for 50 E195‑E2s with purchase rights for 50 additional aircraft
• US$4.4 billion – firm order list price value
• Short‑field enhanced takeoff capability expands access to constrained airports and longer‑range destinations

WASHINGTON, Sept. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Avelo Airlines has placed a firm order for 50 Embraer (NYSE: ERJ; B3: EMBR3) E195‑E2 aircraft, with purchase rights for 50 more, supporting the airline’s strategy to deliver affordable and convenient travel across the United States. Aircraft deliveries are expected to begin in the first half of 2027. The list-price value of the order is US$4.4 billion, excluding purchase rights.

Avelo will be the first U.S. carrier to operate Embraer’s largest and most advanced commercial aircraft, making this a significant milestone for Embraer’s flagship E2 program. The E195‑E2s will modernize Avelo’s fleet, complementing its Boeing 737NGs for the foreseeable future while improving cost efficiency and network reach.

The E2’s excellent short-field performance, enabled by E2TS (Embraer Enhanced Takeoff System), Embraer’s first of its kind proprietary technology, is a key capability that will open new markets for Avelo and drive efficiency in many of Avelo’s existing airports. This, along with the aircraft’s range, fuel efficiency, and small noise footprint establish it as the ideal aircraft to expand Avelo’s network.

Avelo Airlines Founder and CEO Andrew Levy said, “We are thrilled to partner with Embraer and bring this best-in-class small narrowbody airplane to the United States marketplace.  Our customers will love the E2’s comfortable 2×2 seating, in-seat power ports, large overhead bins, and quiet cabin. The aircraft’s exceptional performance, size, and efficiency make it the perfect choice for the future growth of our scheduled service network. The airline industry in the United States is evolving, and the E2 fits perfectly with our vision for Avelo’s unique role in that evolution.”

Embraer Commercial Aviation President and CEO Arjan Meijer said, “The E195‑E2 is a game‑changer for airlines that want to grow profitably while elevating the guest experience. Avelo complements its narrowbody fleet with the best-in-class E195-E2.  Its exceptional fuel efficiency, quiet operations, and short‑field capability will unlock new markets and optimize capacity across its network – all with a cabin that passengers truly  love.”

SMYRNA, Tenn., Sept. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Contour Airlines is proud to announce the launch of new nonstop service connecting Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, Puerto Rico with Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten. Service will begin on November 14, 2025, providing travelers with a convenient and comfortable way to fly between two of the Caribbean’s most vibrant destinations.

Flights will be operated with Contour’s fleet of 30-seat regional jet aircraft, offering passengers extra legroom, complimentary snacks, and inflight service.

Flight Schedule:

“We are excited to expand our Caribbean network with this new route between San Juan and St. Maarten,” said Ben Munson, President of Contour Airlines. “This service will provide a vital link between two important destinations, offering more travel options for leisure and business travelers alike, while strengthening regional connectivity.”

May-Ling Chun, St. Maarten’s Director of Tourism, said, “We are delighted to see the return of this important air link through our collaboration with Contour Airlines and Princess Juliana International Airport. This route is more than just a connection—it is a bridge that strengthens our economies, deepens cultural ties, and fuels regional tourism. As we continue positioning St. Maarten as a leading Caribbean hub, partnerships like this are essential to achieving sustainable growth, expanding accessibility, and creating enriched travel experiences for all.”

Michael Cleaver, CEO of Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), added, “At Princess Juliana International Airport, we like to say all great Caribbean journeys begin on our runway, and now, thanks to this renewed San Juan connection, even more will. While our growth strategy includes expanding into South America, strengthening our regional network is equally important. This route isn’t just about schedules and seats—it’s about connecting people, businesses, and opportunities. Together with our partners, this service represents another key step toward building a more connected future for St. Maarten and the wider region.”

Contour Airlines Announces New Service Between Quincy, IL and Chicago, IL

SMYRNA, Tenn., Sept. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Contour Airlines is excited to announce new nonstop jet service between Quincy Regional Airport (UIN) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), beginning November 1, 2025. The new flights will provide Quincy travelers with seamless access to Chicago and easy connections to destinations worldwide.

The route will be operated daily with Contour’s 30-seat regional jet aircraft, offering passengers extra legroom, complimentary snacks and beverages, and one free checked bag with every fare. Passengers can connect to Contour Airlines interline partners Alaska, American, and United Airlines. 

“We are excited to announce the launch of our new service to Quincy, Illinois,” said Ben Munson, President of Contour Airlines. “We look forward to providing Quincy residents with more convenient, reliable, and affordable travel options.”

Flight Schedule:

“We are very excited to have Contour Airlines as a partner at the Quincy Regional Airport”, said Linda Moore, Mayor of Quincy. “Contour has a proven track record at similar airports, and we look forward to a successful partnership.”

• New flights to Rio, Lima, Cartagena, Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadalajara, Puerto Escondido launching Winter 2025
• Shanghai and Budapest flights launching in Summer 2026
• More flights to Prague in Summer 2026
• New Boeing 787-10 fleet on order to be initially based in Toronto to support future growth

MONTRÉAL, September 10, 2025 – With new, exciting routes already set to begin operating to South America and Mexico this winter from Air Canada’s global hub at Toronto Pearson, the airline today announced further expansion at its largest hub. Beginning Summer 2026, Air Canada will be returning non-stop to Shanghai and to Budapest, and will also be adding flights to Prague. These new services further strengthen Toronto Pearson as Air Canada’s largest hub linking to over 150 destinations across Canada and around the world.

“Air Canada continues to reinforce its significant network at Toronto Pearson and our bold, global growth trajectory will further cement its position as a leading international hub on the continent. Following on our exciting new South America services launching this winter from Toronto to Rio de Janeiro, Lima, Cartagena, plus new vacation destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean, Air Canada will launch two celebrated international routes next summer with the return of non-stop flights from Canada’s largest metropolitan area to Shanghai and to Budapest,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President, & Chief Commercial Officer, and President, Cargo at Air Canada.

“We are thrilled for Air Canada to further grow its network at Toronto Pearson, which strengthens Canada’s connection to economies throughout the world,” said Deborah Flint, President and CEO of Toronto Pearson. “As Air Canada’s launch partner for the 787-10 – a next generation aircraft – this reflects our role in the market and the importance of our plans to build the airport of the future through Pearson LIFT, our infrastructure program. Through LIFT we will elevate the passenger experience, strengthen global connectivity and local economic expansion; all made possible with our airline partners.”

“Air Canada’s expansion at Toronto Pearson supports jobs, contributes significantly to the Greater Toronto area’s GDP and stimulates further economic opportunities by facilitating international trade and tourism. Looking towards the future, Air Canada’s new Boeing 787-10 fleet on order will be based first in Toronto to support continued international growth, further driving commercial trade and employment. As we take delivery of these wide-body aircraft and our new game-changing Airbus A321XLR fleet in the coming years, we look forward to unlocking new travel opportunities at Toronto Pearson for our customers,” concluded Mr. Galardo.

Air Canada is proud to offer eligible customers premium services at Toronto Pearson. This includes the Air Canada Signature Suite, voted the World’s Best Business Class Lounge Dining at this year’s Skytrax Awards, Concierge service, plus three Maple Leaf Lounges and two Air Canada Cafes. Additionally, Air Canada’s cargo business is globally positioned in Toronto, with state-of-the-art facilities to manage specialized freight from time-sensitive pharmaceutical shipments to equine transport.

Air Canada also plans to resume its Tel Aviv route from Toronto next month.

Air Canada’s new routes from Toronto:

Summer 2026

Winter 2025

Additional capacity:

TORONTO, Sept. 10, 2025 /CNW/ – RBC and WestJet today announced exciting enhancements to the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard and WestJet RBC Mastercard, further strengthening the value and flexibility of their co-branded travel credit card portfolio.

Starting November 5, 2025, cardholders will be able to earn WestJet points faster on everyday purchases, while enjoying expanded travel benefits and insurance options on both credit cards.

The enhancements follow earlier announcements of the redesigned WestJet Rewards program and launch of the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard for Business. Today’s announcement is a continuation of the companies’ collective efforts to reward Canadians and make travel more affordable.

“Our long-standing partnership with WestJet is focused on giving Canadians more value, and flexibility when they travel,” said Athena Varmazis, Senior Vice President, Consumer & Commercial Credit Cards, RBC. “With these enhancements, we’re strengthening our leading WestJet RBC Mastercard travel card portfolio, while helping our cardholders get rewarded faster and enjoy greater peace of mind when travelling.”

“We’re making it easier for WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard and WestJet RBC Mastercard cardholders to earn more WestJet points on the purchases they make every day,” said Steve McClelland, Vice-President, Loyalty, WestJet. “These updates will give cardholders more flexibility and accelerated earning opportunities, so they can enjoy affordable adventures and get the most out of every trip.”

More ways to earn, every day
With these exciting changes, WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard and WestJet RBC Mastercard cardholders will earn more WestJet points across new everyday categories.

• WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard – In addition to earning two WestJet points per dollar spent on WestJet flights and WestJet vacations*, cardholders will earn the same on Sunwing Vacations, plus on all eligible purchases in new everyday categories including grocery stores, gas, electric vehicle charging and public transit or rideshare*. They will continue to earn one and a half WestJet points for every dollar spent on all other purchases*.
• WestJet RBC Mastercard – In addition to earning one and a half WestJet points per dollar spent on WestJet flights and WestJet vacations*, cardholders will earn the same on Sunwing Vacations, plus on all eligible purchases in new everyday categories including restaurants, food delivery, streaming services, digital games and digital subscriptions*. They will continue to earn one WestJet point for every dollar spent on all other purchases*.

More flexible companion vouchers
Annual companion vouchers remain a key benefit of the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard and WestJet RBC Mastercard. Beginning November 5, 2025, primary cardholders will enjoy new flexibility, with the option to use their voucher for travel with a companion as they always have, or exchange it for one of these new alternatives*, including:

Upcoming adjustments to fees and vouchers
The annual companion voucher for both cards will now have a minimum spend requirement and the annual fee for the primary cardholder on the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard will increase:

• WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard
  • Starting December 1, 2025, the annual fee will be updated to reflect the enhanced value of the card, changing to $139 (from $119). Additional cardholder fees remaining unchanged at $59.
  • To unlock the enhanced annual companion voucher, a minimum annual spend of $5,000 will have to be charged to the account* beginning from the date vouchers issued on or after November 5, 2025 are received. All vouchers issued before November 5, 2026 will not require a minimum spend.
  • Companion vouchers can be exchanged for two airport lounge vouchers (a reduction from the current option to exchange for four vouchers.)
• WestJet RBC Mastercard
  • Beginning from the date vouchers issued on or after November 5, 2025 are received, a minimum annual spend of $2,500 will have to be charged to the account* for primary cardholders to unlock their companion voucher each year. All vouchers issued before November 5, 2026 will not require a minimum spend.

Expanded protection and peace of mind
Both cards will offer enhanced insurance benefits*, in addition to each card’s existing insurance benefits, ensuring cardholders can travel with peace of mind.

• WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard – Trip Cancellation, Mobile Device Insurance.
• WestJet RBC Mastercard – Mobile Device Insurance.

LAS VEGAS, Sept. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Allegiant Travel Company (NASDAQ: ALGT) today announced three new nonstop routes connecting five cities nationwide, including new service to Burbank, California via Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR). To celebrate, the company is offering one-way fares on the new routes as low as $39.*

The new routes, launching February 2026, will provide convenient, nonstop service between these cities and expand Allegiant’s growing presence in popular leisure destinations. As more travelers seek value-driven travel options, Allegiant remains dedicated to making dream vacations possible with budget-friendly fares and excellent customer service.

“We’re thrilled to expand our network from coast to coast and look forward to bringing our brand of service to Burbank, California,” said Drew Wells, Allegiant’s chief commercial officer. “This growth underscores our commitment to providing leisure travelers with more options to reach the destinations they love and strengthens our position as a leader in offering value-oriented air service.” 

The new routes between Burbank, California via Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) and the following cities include:

• Bellingham, Washington via Bellingham International Airport (BLI) beginning February 12, 2026 with one-way fares as low as $49.*
• Provo, Utah via Provo Airport (PVU) beginning February 12, 2026 with one-way fares as low as $39.*

The new route between Chattanooga, Tennessee via Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) and Fort Lauderdale/Miami, Florida via Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) begins February 12, 2026 with one-way fares as low as $49.*

A hallmark of Allegiant’s leisure-focused business model is its network of all-nonstop flights, making air travel more seamless and accessible. Passengers spend less time at the airport and more time enjoying their vacation.

Tickets for all newly announced routes are now available. Flight days, times and the lowest fares can be found at Allegiant.com.

*About the introductory one-way fares:
Seats and dates are limited and fares are not available on all flights. Flights must be purchased by Sep. 10, 2025 for travel by May 19, 2026. Prices displayed includes taxes, carrier charges & government fees. Fare rules, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Optional baggage charges and additional restrictions may apply. For more details, optional services and baggage fees, please visit Allegiant.com.

• A321XLR fleet delivery begins first quarter of 2026
• Aircraft to also operate Montréal -Toulouse and Montréal – Edinburgh in 2026

MONTRÉAL, Sept. 9, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Canada announced today Montréal to Palma de Mallorca as its first brand new route to be operated by its Airbus A321 extra-long range (XLR) aircraft. Delivery of the XLR fleet begins in the first quarter of 2026, and in June 2026, Air Canada will inaugurate service from Montréal to the Spanish island in the western Mediterranean onboard this new aircraft. Seats are available for sale now at aircanada.com and through Travel Agents.

“The wait is nearly over as the imminent arrival of the game-changing Airbus A321XLR marks the next phase of international growth at Air Canada. This revolutionary narrow-body aircraft unlocks new, exciting global opportunities with its wide-body range and enhanced onboard product. Today, we begin that journey of growth with the announcement of Palma de Mallorca as the first new destination made possible by this fleet. By leveraging the unique capabilities of the A321XLR, Air Canada becomes the first Canadian airline to offer flights to this Spanish island, renowned for its stunning beaches, history and culture. We look forward to welcoming our customers aboard this exciting new aircraft, which will join our fleet in the coming months,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer, and President, Cargo at Air Canada.

The A321XLR is the first narrowbody in Air Canada’s fleet that will feature lie-flat seats in the Business Class cabin, bringing a wide-body experience on a narrow-body jet. It will accommodate 182 passengers in a configuration of 14 Signature Class seats and 168 Economy Class seats. The A321XLR will also mark the beginning of the next era in Air Canada’s cabin interiors with the introduction of a new design standard for our onboard experience.

In addition to launching new service to Mallorca, Air Canada will also transition existing routes to the A321XLR, including year-round flights between Montréal and Toulouse, connecting two vibrant francophone cities, and seasonal flights between Montréal and Edinburgh, resuming service in 2026 with an enhanced product offering. As Air Canada takes delivery of additional A321XLR aircraft, the airline will be adding more exciting routes from Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax, amongst other cities.

Make next summer your best yet and book your flights to Mallorca, Toulouse or Edinburgh on our XLR.

Flight schedule:

Air Canada is acquiring 30 Airbus A321XLR, with the first aircraft to be received in the first quarter of 2026 on lease from Air Lease. Air Canada is scheduled to receive up to an additional 10 A321XLRs in 2026.