Westjet announced plans on Wednesday to buy dozens of new Boeing aircraft based in the United States.
The agreement requires that the carrier based in Calgary buys 60 maximum narrow body 737-10 aircraft, with additional 25 options. The order also includes seven Dreamliner aircraft width body with options for four more.
“With the incorporation of these airplanes, Westjet has the largest order book of any airline in Canada and will double our Dreamliners fleet, supporting our growth plans and our commitment to the options of affordable travel for Canadians from coast to coast and exciting professional careers for our people,” said Westjet executive director Alexis von Hoensbroech, in a launch.
According to Westjet, Canada is one of the largest international supply bases in Boeing, which provides aerospace parts for all commercial aircraft models of the company in production, contributing with $ 4 billion for economic benefits to Canada every year.
The Minister of Transport and Internal Commerce, Chrystia Freeland, praised the agreement as good news for Canada and the United States.
“This agreement between Westjet and Boeing reflects a pragmatic approach to do business, create new opportunities, economic benefits and long -term jobs on both sides of the border, while ensuring that Westjet is well equipped to grow, offer more options for passengers and better connect to Canadians,” he said in the statement.
Alberta Prime Minister Danielle Smith also praised the agreement, calling him historical.
“This not only represents the largest aircraft of Westjet aircraft, but also reinforces Alberta’s growing reputation, both nationally and internationally, as a main aviation and aviation center,” he said in the statement.
“Alberta remains a place where companies can grow and prosper for the future. Alberta’s government is still a proud Westjet partner, including the recent support for the investment of the Lufthansa Milestone Motor repair installation.”
Westjet currently flies 193 passenger airplanes, including 147 Boeing 737s, seven 787 and 39 of Havilland Q400s, said the airline.
