WestJet Announces New Route

WestJet has announced a new route as part of its continued commitment to offering a robust summer 2024 schedule.

Regina To Minneapolis Announced

WestJet says it’ll begin serving Minneapolis from Regina with a daily service in a massive boost for the community.

The landmark moment means this is the first year-round transborder service since 2016 for Regina. Additionally, it provides an essential connection towards the Midwest United States.

Commencement of service is expected on April 28, with departure from Regina scheduled for 0815 and arrival into Minneapolis at 1116.

The flight will depart for Regina at 1315 before touching down in Canada at 1436. Connection times mean there’ll be an emphasis on customers’ ability to connect from Minneapolis.

Service announcement was celebrated at Regina Agribation Grounds, with numerous vital executives attending the celebration.

Comments From Executives

We are thrilled to answer the call of the community and further our commitment to Regina and surrounding area by bringing vital year-round transborder connectivity with service to Minneapolis, beginning this summer. Our newest investment in Regina will further support the economic growth of the region and unlock business and leisure travel opportunities, as we accelerate providing affordable travel to our guests.

Jared Mikoch-Gerke, WestJet Director of Alliances & Airport Affairs

Since I arrived in Regina in 2018, the number one thing I heard from the community was their desire for YQR to once again have year-round, non-stop service to a major US hub. We haven’t stopped working with WestJet since then, and we are thrilled that they have delivered on this for the community, bringing millions in economic impact and making it easier for the business community and residents to access the United States every day of the year.

James Bogusz, President & CEO of the Regina Airport Authority.

A Fantastic Partnership With Delta

WestJet’s connection towards Minneapolis is specifically targeted to aid passengers with onward connection.

WestJet’s partnership with Delta Air Lines will highlight the onward travel. Now, the codeshare partnership extends to over 70 connecting destinations.

All these destinations are accessible with a single stop from Regina, which increases customer connectivity better than ever.

WestJet adds that guests can access Delta’s network thanks to a single purchased ticket. Bags can also be tagged to the end destination, with lounge access available for guests.

The WestJet Fleet

WestJet operates a fleet of many aircraft types and has recently moved towards more efficient next-generation aircraft.

The airline operates with a fleet of already 29 in-service 737-8s. These Boeing 737-8s are the youngest fleet type when measured by average age at three years.

For its long-haul flying, the airline utilises the 787-9 Dreamliner. Currently, 7 Boeing 787s are in the airline’s fleet, with an average age of 3.7 years.

In the future and, permitting certification, the airline will welcome the 737-7 and 737-10 from the MAX family to enhance its operations.

Boeing is closing in on certification of its 737-7, per latest reports. Southwest executives are planning for an April 2024 approval, with potential delays included in this forecast.

Away from the next-generation fleet, it primarily uses the 737-800 and 737-700s for flying with 42 and 40 aircraft in service, respectively.