Airline also increases capacity to Vancouver Island and Northwest Territories

EDMONTON, AB, May 19, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced the return of non-stop service between Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and Kamloops, B.C. as well as the introduction of all-new service to Prince George, B.C. Beginning the first week of July, WestJet Encore will operate the routes twice per week throughout the peak summer travel season onboard the De Havilland Dash 8-400 (Q400) aircraft.

“Restoring service to Kamloops and introducing service to Prince George is a direct reflection of Canadians’ interest in exploring their own backyard this summer,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “With more flights and more seats in key Western Canadian markets, we’re giving Canadians better access to the destinations they rely on for business, leisure and visiting loved ones.”

In addition to the new seasonal routes, WestJet has increased capacity on two key domestic routes from Edmonton. This summer, WestJet will offer service to Nanaimo, B.C. on the Boeing 737, more than doubling seat capacity. The airline is also offering service between Yellowknife and Edmonton on the Boeing 737 twice per week. Historically, both routes only operated on the Q400.

Additional quotes

“YEG welcomes more flights to more places, celebrating WestJet’s dedication to regional connectivity and additional options for Canadians to explore our beautiful country,” said James Jackson, Vice President, Air Service & Business Development, Edmonton International Airport (YEG). “Non-stop flights between Edmonton and Kamloops and Prince George offers travellers from British Columbia convenient access to world-class experiences and attractions in the Edmonton region, and connectivity to YEG’s vast network of global destinations. Likewise, people from Edmonton and surrounding communities can seamlessly reach more of British Columbia’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture without the lengthy road trip.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome this new route connecting Prince George to Edmonton, expanding travel options for our community and strengthening our region’s accessibility,” said Sabrina Angus, Interim President and CEO of the Prince George Airport Authority. “This service not only opens the door for more business and leisure travel but also reinforces our commitment to connecting Northern BC to key hubs across Canada.”

“As a gateway to the City of Kamloops and the Thompson Nicola region, Kamloops Airport is very pleased to welcome back WestJet’s service to Edmonton,” said Jim Moroz, Managing Director, Kamloops Airport. “Edmonton has long been a popular destination for our community, and the service comes just in time for travelers on both ends of the route to reconnect with family and friends during the summer months. We look forward to working with WestJet and our tourism partners to make this service a success.”

“We’re pleased to see this increased investment in connectivity between Yellowknife and Edmonton. The move to add additional capacity reflects growing demand in our region and strengthens an essential link for business, tourism, and northern communities. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership and welcoming more travellers to and from YZF,” said Randy Straker, Regional Airport Manager, Yellowknife Airport.

“We are very excited that WestJet is increasing the capacity for its route between YCD – Nanaimo and YEG – Edmonton this summer providing our customers with enhanced services on a 737 aircraft to Vancouver Island and Edmonton during the popular tourism season,” said Dave Devana, President & CEO Nanaimo Airport Commission.

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.   

Qatar Airways Group profit grows by more than 28% to over QAR7.85bn (US$2.15bn)
Renewed ‘Qatar Airways 2.0’ strategy credited with driving record-breaking performance

Qatar Airways Group has announced the strongest set of financial results in its history. Profits for the Group, which includes cargo, catering and Qatar Duty Free, reached QAR7.85bn (US$2.15bn) in the 24/25 fiscal year – an increase of more than QAR1.7bn (US$0.5bn) on the year before.

Qatar Airways Cargo, the world’s leading cargo carrier, has delivered a remarkable financial performance, recording a 17% growth in revenue and achieving the best financial results since the COVID period. This is attributed to its agility in adapting to shifting market conditions, a focus on investing in digitalisation, deeper data-driven analyses, and its best-in-class reliability.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “These record-breaking results are a testament to the hard work, skill and dedication of teams across all of Qatar Airways Group. I know that none of the outstanding results we’re announcing today would be possible without our people – more than 55,000 of them across the globe – and it’s our focus on fostering that talent, which has been a core focus of our Qatar Airways 2.0 strategy.

“We have also successfully implemented strategic partnerships throughout the industry, in order for the Group to remain agile in the face of ever-shifting world events, whether political, economic or environmental.

“All of this means we continue to offer and develop exceptional service in the skies, whether it’s the award-winning Qsuite, fine dining, or super-fast complimentary Starlink internet connectivity for all passengers.”

Key achievements of Qatar Airways Group over the last financial year include:

• Record-breaking 28% increase in profit in 24/25 financial year.
• Expansion of Hamad International Airport, enabling it to cater for 65m passengers annually.
• First global airline, and first in MENA region, to install Starlink super-fast WiFi on its Boeing 777 fleet.
• 25% minority stake in Virgin Australia.
• 25% acquisition of South African premier regional airline, Airlink.
• Introduction of conversational AI into its world-first digital cabin crew, Sama.
• A range of technical MoUs future-proofing and diversifying the business across the sector, as well as working to fulfil the ambitions of the Qatar National Vision 2030.

Looking ahead, Qatar Airways also recently made historic aircraft and engine orders, ensuring that its already modern and technologically-advanced fleet remains at the forefront of commercial aviation, providing world-leading service to passengers across the globe.

• Etihad becomes first airline in the region to connect to one of America’s fastest-growing cities
• Four weekly flights begin 4 May 2026 aboard Boeing 787 Dreamliner

Charlotte, United States / Abu Dhabi, UAE – Etihad Airways is thrilled to announce a new addition to its growing U.S. network with the launch of non-stop flights to Charlotte, North Carolina, starting 4 May 2026. With this milestone, Etihad becomes the first airline from the region to fly directly to Charlotte – further strengthening connectivity between the UAE and the United States.

The new service links Abu Dhabi with one of America’s most dynamic financial and cultural hubs, giving travellers greater access to Etihad’s expanding global network and the renowned hospitality of the UAE capital.

Charlotte becomes Etihad’s sixth destination in the United States, joining New York, Chicago, Washington, Boston, and Atlanta, which launches 2 July. The route will operate four times per week on Etihad’s flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner, delivering the airline’s award-winning service in both Business and Economy cabins.

“Charlotte represents a strategic addition to our U.S. network, unlocking direct access to one of the country’s most dynamic and fast-growing regions,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways. “We’re excited to be the first airline from our region to serve this market, and we look forward to connecting more travellers to Abu Dhabi and beyond.”

A thriving centre for finance, technology, motorsport and culture, Charlotte is home to major U.S. corporations and attracts millions of visitors annually for both business and leisure. From the iconic NASCAR Hall of Fame to its scenic trails and southern charm, the city offers a diverse mix of experiences for every traveller. Charlotte Douglas International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, ranking sixth globally for aircraft movements in 2024—a reflection of the city’s growing importance as a major transport hub.

With early morning departures from Abu Dhabi and midday returns, the schedule is designed for smooth onward connections via Etihad’s global network. Travelers from

Charlotte will enjoy seamless one-stop connections to destinations across the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, and Asia.

Guests travelling to the U.S. benefit from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, enabling them to arrive in Charlotte as domestic passengers – ensuring a smooth and time-saving arrival experience.

Tickets are now open for sale on etihad.com.

Milan Bergamo Airport today celebrated the launch of a brand-new route to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, operated by SkyAlps, marking the first-ever scheduled connection between the two cities. The new two-weekly service will be maintained every Thursday and Sunday through 12 October. The flights are operated by SkyAlps’ modern and sustainable fleet, offering passengers a comfortable travel option between Northern Italy and southern Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Located in the heart of the Herzegovina region, Mostar is one of the Balkans’ most picturesque and historic cities. Famous for its iconic UNESCO-listed Old Bridge, the city blends Ottoman and European heritage and offers a unique cultural experience along with natural beauty, including the nearby Kravica waterfalls and the Dinaric Alps. The new air link provides easier access for tourists, the local diaspora, and pilgrims visiting nearby Medjugorje.

SkyAlps becomes the latest airline to join Milan Bergamo’s growing network, bringing the total number of carriers operating from the airport this summer to 22. This also makes Mostar the second destination in Bosnia and Herzegovina served from Bergamo Airport, alongside Sarajevo, which is operated by Ryanair. Milan Bergamo remains the only airport in Northern Italy to offer direct air links to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Giacomo Cattaneo, Director of Commercial Aviation, SACBO, said: “We are delighted to welcome SkyAlps to Milan Bergamo and to inaugurate this important new connection with Mostar. This route not only opens up a new gateway to one of the most historically and culturally significant cities in the Balkans but also strengthens our position as the leading airport in Northern Italy for connectivity to Southeast Europe. We are proud to be the only airport in the region offering direct flights to Bosnia and Herzegovina.”

The addition of Mostar brings the total number of destinations served from Milan Bergamo Airport during the 2025 summer season to 145 across 39 countries. The airport remains dedicated to providing passengers with increased travel options and enhanced connectivity throughout Europe and beyond.

Passengers can book flights between Milan Bergamo and Mostar now via the SkyAlps website or through their preferred travel agents.

Image Caption: SkyAlps becomes the latest airline to join Milan Bergamo’s growing network.

About Milan Bergamo Airport
Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY) is a prominent international gateway located in the heart of Northern Italy. With an extensive network of destinations, Milan Bergamo offers passengers a wide range of travel options to explore Europe and beyond. The airport is dedicated to enhancing passenger experience and expanding its services to meet the diverse needs of its travellers.

HALIFAX, NS, May 15, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced an expansion of its codeshare partnerships with Air France and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KLM), offering guests connecting through Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Paris Charles de Gaulle enhanced access a broader network of European destinations all with the ease of a single booking.

“As part of our commitment to flying Canadians where they want to go, these expanded partnerships provide WestJet guests with more options to explore 59 sought-after European destinations this summer,” said Jared Mikoch-Gerke, WestJet Director of Airport Affairs and Alliances. “With WestJet’s recent transatlantic network expansions, guests travelling from across the country will benefit from more choice and convenience when travelling through Paris and Amsterdam. For guests originating in, or connecting through Atlantic Canada in particular, these enhancements are a gamechanger – offering guests travelling from or through Halifax and St. John’s more destinations, fewer layovers and convenient access to Europe.”

Guests travelling on WestJet codeshare flights with Air France and KLM will enjoy the convenience of booking their entire journey on one ticket, with a seamless single connection at CDG or AMS, baggage transfers and earning WestJet Rewards throughout their journey.

WestJet and KLM open the door for more Europe from Atlantic Canada

Guests flying WestJet’s new route from Halifax to Amsterdam can connect beyond AMS to 14 destinations throughout KLM’s European network including multiple cities in Italy, Portugal and France.

Additional Air France codeshare destinations deliver on choice for East and West

WestJet guests departing from Calgary, Halifax and St. John’s can now access four additional European destinations via CDG. With today’s enhancements, guests have access to more than 50 destinations through Air France’s massive network in Europe through their global hub in Paris.

MONTREAL, May 15, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Transat, voted the 2024 World’s Best Leisure Airline by Skytrax, continues to enhance its winter program with the addition of three new departure points in Canada. Starting in winter 2025-2026, travellers from Windsor (YQG) will enjoy weekly flights to Punta Cana (PUJ), while those from Charlottetown (YYG) and Fredericton (YFC) will have access to a new route to Cancún (CUN).

“The addition of Windsor, Charlottetown and Fredericton to our winter flight program demonstrates our commitment to expanding our network in the Canadian market,” said Sebastian Ponce, Transat’s Chief Revenue Officer. “Thanks to optimized operations, we are strengthening our leadership position in Cancún and Punta Cana, while increasing our brand presence in Eastern Canada and Southern Ontario.”

Departures from Windsor to Punta Cana will be offered every Friday from December 19, 2025, to April 10, 2026. Then, starting February 18, 2026, flights from Charlottetown and Fredericton to Cancún will be offered every Wednesday, until April 22, 2026.

These new routes will offer travellers from these regions direct access to these popular sun destinations, as well as the simplicity of Transat’s signature all-inclusive packages.

Details of Air Transat’s full winter 2025-2026 program will be announced soon.

SÃO PAULO, May 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes S.A. (B3: GOLL4), one of the leading airlines in Brazil and part of the ABRA Group, announced today its consolidated results for the first quarter of 2025 (1Q25). All information herein is presented in Brazilian Reais (R$), unless otherwise noted, in accordance with international accounting standards (IFRS), with adjusted metrics made available to enable comparison of this quarter (1Q25) with the first quarter of 2024 (1Q24).

Highlights

GOL – Passenger Business

• The Company increased its capacity (ASK) by 12.0% in 1Q25 (vs 1Q24), highlighting an increase of almost 50% in its international capacity in the same period (vs 1Q24), a reflection of the plan to rebuild capacity and expand the network.
• On-time Performance (OTP) remained consistent with recent months and reached 89.4% in 1Q25, an increase of 6.5 p.p. (vs 1Q24), placing the Company as the most punctual airline in Brazil in the quarter.
• Passenger Business’ Net Revenue grew by 19.4% in 1Q25 (vs 1Q24), driven by a 6.6% increase in RASK, reflecting greater efficiency in generating revenue per available seat.
• In 1Q25, the Company received two new MAX-8 aircraft, totaling 54 units of the model in its fleet, in line with the fleet renewal strategy and greater operational efficiency.

Smiles – Loyalty Program

• Miles redeemed grew by 17.9% in 1Q25 (vs 1Q24), highlighting a 1.4 p.p. increase in the share of redemptions for non-airline products and services — reinforcing Smiles’ positioning as an increasingly complete loyalty platform.
• Smiles’ revenue maintained its growth trajectory, with a 12.4% increase in 1Q25 (vs 1Q24).
• Clube Smiles’ number of customers grew by 6.9% in 1Q25 (vs 1Q24), reaching the level of almost 1.2 million subscribers.

GOLLOG – Cargo Business

• The transported weight in 1Q25 increased by 6.8% (vs 1Q24), reflecting the expansion of dedicated cargo operations and the higher demand in the period.
• GOLLOG’s revenue continued to grow in 1Q25, with an increase of 17.0% (vs 1Q24).