WestJet announced plans Wednesday to purchase dozens of new aircraft from U.S.-based Boeing.
The deal calls for the Calgary-based carrier to buy 60 narrow-body 737-10 MAX aircraft, with options for an additional 25. The order also includes seven 787-9 Dreamliner wide-body aircraft with options for four more.
“With the addition of these aircraft, WestJet has the largest order book of any airline in Canada and will double our fleet of Dreamliners, underpinning our growth plans and our commitment to affordable travel options for Canadians from coast to coast and exciting career paths for our people,” said WestJet chief executive officer, Alexis von Hoensbroech, in a release.
According to WestJet, Canada is one of Boeing’s largest international supply bases, providing aerospace parts for all of the company’s commercial airplane models in production, contributing $4 billion in economic benefits to Canada each year.
Minister of Transport and Internal Trade Chrystia Freeland hailed the agreement as good news for Canada and the United States.
“This agreement between WestJet and Boeing reflects a pragmatic approach to doing business, creating 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 Canadians,” she said in the release.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith also praised the agreement, calling it historic.
“Not only does this represent WestJet’s largest-ever aircraft order, but it also reinforces Alberta’s growing reputation, both nationally and internationally, as a leading aerospace and aviation hub,” she said in the release.
“Alberta remains a place where businesses can grow and thrive for the future. Alberta’s government continues to be a proud partner of WestJet, including recent support for Lufthansa’s milestone engine repair facility investment.”
WestJet currently flies 193 passenger aircraft, including 147 Boeing 737s, seven 787s and 39 De Havilland Q400s, the airline said.
