In another significant decision from WestJet group, they will shut down Sunwing Airlines and favour merging it with their mainline business.
Such a decision from WestJet comes a matter of days following a similar announcement that would see the closure of Swoop, their low-cost arm. Swoop will also be absorbed into WestJet’s mainline operations.
Sunwing specialises in vacation operations. However, now its integration with WestJet wholely comes as another step in WestJet’s broader plans. There is yet to be a timeline for such a formal transition which is unlike Swoop. WestJet says Swoop’s growth will come first and is expected to be completed into WestJet by year’s end.
WestJet wants to move towards a single jet aircraft operating certification, so deciding to shut Sunwing and absorb it into their mainline is crucial.
Consolidation in the Canadian market has been a heavy talking point with companies making relevant changes to their businesses. WestJet, however, has stolen headlines in recent weeks with such groundbreaking decisions in quick succession.
Despite the closure of Sunwing as its own entity, WestJet has re-affirmed its commitment to flying to sunny destinations and will be part of its long-term goal once they say goodbye to the Sunwing brand.
