Hard on the heels of WestJet CEO's first annual address to the Edmonton business community, stressing the airline's commitment to the city, WestJet celebrated the takeoff of non-stop flights between Edmonton and codeshare partner Delta's mega-hub Atlanta.
Flight WS1902 departed at 00:45 MDT on 29APR.
"Our new route to Atlanta, will bolster incredible connectivity for Edmonton, stimulating critical new opportunities for the city's vibrant business sector and visitor economy to grow and thrive," said John Weatherill, WestJet executive VP and CCO.
"With year-round service, we are opening up Edmonton to the world and the world to Edmonton with convenient access to a mega-global hub, which hosts more than 1,000 flights per day to more than 200 international and domestic destinations."
WestJet, in partnership with Edmonton International Airport (YEG), was joined by partners at a launch event held on 29APR.
Additionally, the City of Edmonton and partners from the region are in Atlanta on a trade and tourism mission to promote this connection and its importance in fostering business development and propelling the visitor economy.
| Route | Frequency | Start Date | Departure | Arrival |
| Edmonton-Atlanta | Daily | April 29 | 12:45 a.m. | 7:06 a.m. |
| Atlanta-Edmonton | Daily | April 29 | 9:05 a.m. | 11:50 a.m. |
Through WestJet's partnership with Delta Air Lines, guests connecting through Atlanta gain access to a network of U.S. destinations on a single ticket. Check-in for all flights is at the first departure, baggage is tagged to their final destination, and lounge access is available for select guests.
Additionally, frequent flyers of both airlines enjoy reciprocal benefits any time they fly with either carrier, including earning and redeeming in their preferred program.
New Era for Air Connectivity for Edmonton
Connecting Edmonton year round to partner Delta's mega-global air hub in Atlanta with non-stop flights puts WestJet's CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech's words into action. The inaugural flight follows his declaration of the airline's commitment to Edmonton at his first annual address to the Edmonton business community.
"WestJet's new non-stop service to Atlanta from Edmonton supports the growth of new business and tourism opportunities between our regions," said Myron Keehn, president & CEO, Edmonton International Airport (YEG). "WestJet continues to be a key partner in achieving our vision of bringing more flights to more places from YEG. Travellers can now discover why Atlanta is one of National Geographic's top destinations in the world in one of the most business-friendly states in the U.S. We are pleased that this new route gives passengers the opportunity to explore even further the over 200 connecting destinations globally through Atlanta."
William Pate, president and CEO of the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, added: "Canada is one of Atlanta's largest international markets for inbound travel, and WestJet's new flight creates an opportunity for incremental traffic to Atlanta.
"We look forward to welcoming more Canadian visitors and showcasing everything our city has to offer."
