“This winter, WestJet will operate 305 total routes and serve 62 Latin American, Caribbean, and US sun destinations," stated John Weatherill, Chief Commercial Officer of WestJet. He added that Canadians want value while escaping the cold, promising affordability and choice with their expanded sun network.
Weatherill noted that 71% of WestJet’s non-stop flights are priced lower than in 2024. A study by the Competition Bureau of Canada highlighted a highly concentrated domestic market despite new entrants like Flair Airlines or Porter Airlines.
The Canadian carrier plans to launch seven new routes from six Canadian airports this December. These seasonal routes will end in April 2026. "Seat capacity across the Latin America and Caribbean region is scheduled to grow by [6%]," said WestJet.
Graham Ingham, CEO of Thunder Bay International Airports Authority, expressed confidence in a strong performance for a new route from Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT) to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ).
Other new routes include flights from Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Cozumel International Airport (CZM) and Puerto Plata Banreservas Aeropuerto Gregorio Luperón (POP), among others.
Additionally, five new destinations were unveiled: Guadalajara International Airport (GDL), Tocumen International Airport (PTY), Tepic International Airport (TPQ), Managua Augusto Cesar Sandino International Airport (MGA), and Havana José Martí International Airport (HAV).
Amanda Ierfino, Vice President of Sales & Cargo at WestJet stated that "the winter 2025/2026 season schedule is a pivotal moment" as they continue growing cargo belly capacity.
Contrasting last year's announcement emphasizing transborder connections with no mentions this year highlights changes in focus amid geopolitical tensions affecting demand. Alexis von Hoensbroech told CTV News about decreased sales on flights from Canada to the US since tariff announcements by Trump's administration.
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