Manitoba sees stars: WestJet's direct flights YWG and LAX

WestJet celebrated its newest route yesterday (Aug. 17), with the announcement of service between Winnipeg and Los Angeles, beginning October 31, 2022.

WestJet says the route, which will operate three-times weekly on a year-round basis, will strengthen integral ties and convenience in transportation between Winnipeg's expanding television and film industry and the esteemed, world-renowned hub of entertainment itself, Los Angeles.

According to Nick Hays, president and CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority, this new route significantly enhances the community's connectivity by offering direct service to one of the most iconic cities in the world.

He adds:

"Traffic between Manitoba and Southern California continues to grow, driven in large part by the province's thriving film industry. Now, Winnipeg is just one flight away from the bright lights of Los Angeles, making it so much easier for movie executives, actors, and others working in the sector to travel to the two cities. We're extremely proud to work with WestJet to bring this valuable route to Winnipeg to help meet the needs of our community."

A collaborative partnership

John Weatherill, executive vice-president and chief commercial officer at WestJet said it was an honour to attend the celebration that is the result of the collaborative partnership between Winnipeg Airports Authority, Economic Development Winnipeg, and the Government of Manitoba and WestJet.

"WestJet is thrilled to be a part of this investment creating a new, direct link for business, tourism and entertainment between these two unique cites, building on our commitment to Winnipeg,” adds Weatherill.

WestJet's newest investment was announced at an event held at Winnipeg's Metropolitan Entertainment Centre, with notable guests of the film and television sector along with critical partners in attendance including, the Honourable Heather Stefanson, Premier of Manitoba; Nick Hays, President and CEO, Winnipeg Airports Authority; Dayna Spiring, President and CEO, Winnipeg Economic Development; and Rod Bruinooge, Interim CEO, Manitoba Film and Music.

Last year, the Film and Television industry brought over $364.5 million worth of production volume to Manitoba, and it is reported this new route will enable further growth and investment in the province.

"Manitoba's film and television industry plays a key role in our provincial economy, and I want to commend WestJet for this strategic investment that will have significant benefits not only for the entertainment industry, but for Manitoba's tourism, trade and business sectors," said Honourable Heather Stefanson, Premier of Manitoba.

Showing off Canada's diversity

Zaib Shaikh, Consul General of Canada in Los Angeles shared that one of the most remarkable things about Manitoba's film industry is its notable reflection of Canada's diversity.

"Not only are over 41% of Manitoba productions companies owned by women, Winnipeg is a focal point for many Indigenous film production companies as well. That is something to celebrate, highlight and nurture. This new direct route will have a major impact on Manitobans and Canadians being able to share our stories, cultures and creative talents, from behind the scenes to in front of the camera and on many screens,” said Shaikh.

Flight schedule

As the only airline providing direct connectivity between Winnipeg and Los Angeles, WestJet says its service between the two cities will stimulate business and leisure travel and is a testament to WestJet's commitment to support investment and economic growth in the communities it serves.

This winter, WestJet says it will solidify its position as the leading airline in Winnipeg providing more non-stop routes than any other carrier.

Further, the WestJet Group reports it will increase capacity to and from Winnipeg by 80 per cent in comparison to 2021, serving 22 nonstop, direct routes and producing the largest year-over-year growth of any major airport in the group's network.

Delta codeshare partnership

Guests travelling beyond Los Angeles will have access to a broad network and benefits through WestJet's strong relationship with Delta Air Lines.

This includes codeshare flights to 20 major U.S. cities, the ability to earn and redeem WestJet Rewards on both airlines, top tier frequent flyer benefits through the entire journey, and access to Delta's LAX SkyClub lounge for eligible guests.

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