WestJet, Government Continue Discussions

All eyes on WestJet.

With yesterday’s deal between Air Canada and the federal government done, the industry is now turning its attention to where things stand with WestJet’s talks with the government.

In a statement released last night (April 12), the company said: “The WestJet Group of Companies continues discussions with the Government of Canada on a safe travel-restart framework. We remain focused on a long-term solution that will serve the best interests of Canadians.”

And it indicated that: “We will provide updates on our discussions with the Government of Canada at the appropriate time.”

The company said in the statement that it “continues to operate self-sufficiently with the exception of the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS), which flows through directly to our employees.”

It also pointed out that: “We have already communicated we will restore service to all 42 airports that we served pre-COVID and did so at our earliest opportunity. Since October 2020, WestJet’s refund policy has been industry-leading in Canada, and consistent with the U.S., UK and EU.”

The WestJet Group’s statement emphasized: “We remain committed to building back even stronger for the betterment of all Canadians. A healthy WestJet will help lead a stronger recovery, increasing competition and consumer choice while lowering the cost of travel for Canadians, all while anchoring Canada’s vital air travel and tourism sectors.”