A stylish new lounge has opened at the Calgary International Airport. The Aspire WestJet Lounge, which opened 28APR at the U.S. Transborder Terminal E Gates, marks a first-time partnership between Aspire and WestJet.
The verdant space expands the existing Aspire Transborder Lounge, adding 90 seats to accommodate up to 216 travellers. While WestJet passengers enjoy priority access, entry is available for a fee for all travellers regardless of airline or ticket class. Details of costs below.
Canadian design firm Menard Dworkind (MRDK) transformed the traditional airport lounge concept into something more contemporary. Bathed in natural light and adorned with hundreds of tropical plants, the space looks like a cross between a hip co-working environment and an upscale restaurant, offering travellers a stylish space to get grounded before taking to the skies.
“The idea was to create a calm and serene environment,” shared Jorge Da Silva, Head of Aspire Airport Lounges, North America, Swissport.
“We had to find a solution for the demand that we were receiving on a daily basis. Then one day, while walking through this very space, the high ceilings and natural light inspired me to create an interior garden, a first of its kind in Canada,” noted Da Silva.
When the opportunity arose, WestJet forged an alliance with lounge specialist Aspire to enhance the transborder terminal experience and expand its footprint at YYC. The partnership brings together WestJet's commitment to passenger experience and Aspire's expertise in creating notable airport lounges.
“We’re committed to delivering a travel experience that reflects our spirit of care, warmth and hospitality. Today marks an exciting milestone, not just for our guests, but for the future of WestJet as we continue to evolve, expand and grow,” said Jeff Hagen, WestJet’s VP Commercial Developments and Strategic Partnerships, at the lounge launch event.
“This lounge has been thoughtfully designed to be more than just a comfortable space to relax. It’s a unique place where our WestJet rewards members will have priority access to recharge, connect and unwind,” he said.
The lounge is comprised of thoughtfully designed spaces to suit the needs of different travellers—from private work booths for catching up on emails to a welcoming living room area conducive to socializing. Restaurant-style tables and booths cluster around a central bar, while practical amenities include high-speed Wi-Fi, abundant charging stations, and shower facilities.
Culinary offerings by celebrated restaurateurs
The garden's appeal extends beyond its lush aesthetics to the plate, where CHAR Hospitality Group—helmed by Chefs Connie de Souza and John Jackson of Calgary's renowned CHARCUT and Charbar—brings local flavour to new heights. What began as a Thanksgiving holiday pop-up has blossomed into a partnership across all three Aspire Lounges at YYC.
“It’s an awesome partnership and great exposure to promote CHARCUT globally,” acknowledged Chef Connie de Souza.
Added Chef John Jackson, “It’s really exciting to have our regulars notice the food that’s provided. A lot of our regulars are frequent travellers, and to see them enjoying our food here just as much as they do at our restaurants is pretty cool.”
Lounge patrons can enjoy complimentary full-service beverages and gourmet offerings featuring CHARCUT's signature house-cured meats, fresh pasta creations, crisp salads and innovative vegetable-forward dishes. Currently serving lunch and dinner, breakfast options will soon join the menu at all Calgary Aspire locations.
Chris Niergarth, General Manager, Commercial & Retail Development, Calgary Airport Authority, reminded the lounge’s inaugural guests that the journey is just as important as the final stop—a philosophy embodied in this botanical space where restaurant quality cuisine meets tranquil surroundings.
“Air travel is more than reaching a destination, it’s about the experience along the way. This lounge space enhances the journey, providing a comfortable, welcoming environment before taking flight,” noted Niergarth.
Accessing the Aspire Lounge
While WestJet offers complimentary access to the Aspire lounge for Business Class, Platinum, and Gold Tier members, other guests can access the lounge for a fee.
Here's a breakdown of access and pricing:
- WestJet Guests: $53.50 for adults, $34.60 for children (2-17 years), and no charge for children under 2 years.
- Complimentary Access: WestJet Rewards Platinum, Gold, and Silver members (based on tier benefits) and WestJet guests travelling in the business cabin may have complimentary access, according to YYC.com.
- Other Programs: Guests with memberships in Priority Pass, LoungeKey, Lounge Club, or Diners Club may receive discounted entry, with rates varying by program, according to WestJet.
- Delta One Ticket Holders: Access when Calgary (YYC) is part of the same-day international itinerary.
- Other Guests: Other guests can access the lounge for a fee, as stated by WestJet.
