On Saturday, WestJet celebrated the completion of its inaugural flight from Calgary International Airport to London’s Heathrow Airport with the arrival of flight WS18 at 12:00 pm local time. WestJet already flies to London-Gatwick, and the new service will have the airline offering up to nine times weekly service between Calgary and London this summer.
“We are pleased to provide our guests travelling to London for business and leisure with greater choice and convenience as we celebrate our inaugural flight to Heathrow Airport,” said Chris Hedlin, WestJet Vice-President, Network & Alliances. “This new route not only strengthens Alberta’s travel and tourism pipeline but creates new opportunities for our guests to benefit from access to one of the most connected global aviation hubs.”
Saturday’s flight from Calgary furthers the airline’s commitment to Alberta as it continues to rebuild transatlantic connectivity between Canada and Europe. WestJet’s service to Europe from Calgary International airport now includes non-stop flights to London-Heathrow, London Gatwick and Paris with service to Rome and Dublin set to begin in May.
“We look forward to providing Canadians and Europeans with enhanced connectivity from Western Canada as we further our commitment to supporting the economic recovery of inbound tourism on both sides of the Atlantic,” continued Hedlin.
Bob Sartor, President & CEO of The Calgary Airport Authority said, “WestJet’s new non-stop route from YYC to London Heathrow, Europe’s busiest airport, is welcomed by those looking to access the world’s premier financial and business centre and those eager for a direct connection to explore London’s culture and landmarks. We look forward to welcoming guests from across the pond to experience the traditional Indigenous lands and warm hospitality our region is known for.”
Jyoti Gondek, Mayor of Calgary congratulated WestJet for, “continuing to invest in new ways to connect Calgarians and our economy to the world. London Heathrow is a critical access point for business and leisure travellers and will be of great benefit to investors and tourists who want world class access to our region.”