This summer, WestJet is doubling down on domestic — reinstating Kamloops after a four-year absence, adding Prince George, and increasing capacity to Vancouver Island and the Northwest Territories, all from YEG.
John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer, said more service from Edmonton to British Columbia and the north “is a direct reflection of Canadians' interest in exploring their own backyard this summer. 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."
Operated by WestJet Encore, Kamloops (YKA) and Prince George (YXS) will start in the first week of July, connecting communities on both sides of the Rockies.
"YEG welcomes more flights to more places," said James Jackson, Vice President, Air Service & Business Development for Edmonton International Airport. "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," he added.
WestJet previously operated service between YEG and YKA, including prior to 2016 and again in 2021, but the service was short-lived owing to crew shortages and the lingering effects of the pandemic.
"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. Edmonton has long been a popular destination for our community,” said Jim Moroz, Managing Director at Kamloops Airport. “We look forward to working with WestJet and our tourism partners to make this service a success."
In addition to the new routes, WestJet is also enhancing its domestic summer network by upgrading two key regional connections — Nanaimo and Yellowknife —to Boeing 737 aircraft. The shift from Q400s more than doubles seat capacity and further strengthens YEG as a strong regional launch point for the airline,
Randy Straker, Regional Airport Manager, Yellowknife Airport, said, We look forward to continuing our strong partnership and welcoming more travellers to and from YZF.” He added the "additional capacity reflects growing demand in our region and strengthens an essential link for business, tourism and northern communities,”
Dave Devana, President and CEO of the Nanaimo Airport Commission, said it is gearing up for a “popular tourism season,” anticipating strong traffic from Edmonton to Vancouver Island.
