With its final flight taking place yesterday (May 28), the WestJet Group says it has officially completed its integration of Sunwing Airlines – an operation two years in the making after the former acquired the latter in May, 2023.

“Completing two airline consolidations in just two years – the first with Swoop in 2024 and now Sunwing – was complex and required coordination across every aspect of our business, from operational, labour, and regulatory areas to experiential and cultural elements,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, CEO of the WestJet Group.

“Achieving this milestone is proof of the incredible way our unified team works together and is a clear win for WestJet and our guests; it’s also a story of transformation in Canadian aviation,” he added.

WestJet has now integrated all jet aircraft under a single Air Operator Certificate (AOC), including 16 former Swoop aircraft, another nine former Lynx Air aircraft which were secured after that airline went out of business, and now 18 more from Sunwing Airlines.

WestJet says it’s unified narrowbody operation will begin to realize efficiencies once it transforms these aircraft with cabin reconfigurations to the WestJet standard interior being completed through 2025.

The result, the carrier adds, will be “a consistent onboard experience for guests,” with a more diverse range of onboard product offerings, including Premium, Economy, Extended Comfort, and UltraBasic seating available on all 150 Boeing 737 aircraft across the airline.

Sunwing Vacations

WestJet notes that guests with reservations through the Sunwing Vacations brand – who will now be flying on WestJet aircraft – can expect an improved end-to-end travel experience as the tour operator streamlines processes and booking flows.

“The final Sunwing-operated flight this week is a time to reflect,” von Hoensbroech said, recognizing that Sunwing has played an important and influential role in the Canadian leisure travel market.

“I know every Sunwing employee, past and present feels their contributions have mattered to advancing the experience of air travel,” he added. “To all WestJetters and former Sunwing team members: thank you. This milestone is your achievement, and a proud moment for us all.”

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