This network expansion out of Western Canada has been deliberate as von Hoensbroech shifted the strategic alignment of the airline last summer. Calgary was to be the hub for connecting flights while WestJet pulled back to a degree from oversaturated routes in the east to improve service to underserved communities in the west.
WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech watches as WestJet pilots hold an informational picket at the Calgary International Airport on May 8.Von Hoensbroech also helped solve a difficult labour dispute with WestJet pilots, who were hours away from walking off the job last month. The deal — which would increase pay to help stem the tide of pilots heading to higher-paying positions in the U.S. and improve scheduling issues — will see a voting process finish on Friday.
It is unclear how this deal will impact pricing going forward, though the airline has committed to keeping prices low. In an emailed statement on Thursday, a spokesperson said there are many factors that influence ticket pricing, including route frequencies, airport fees and demand.Article content The sector is now also dealing with a struggling economy and potential recession in parts of Canada and the globe. This has been amplified by high inflation in 2022 and another 25-basis point increase to the overnight interest rate target by the Bank of Canada on Wednesday.