WestJet extends flight suspensions into July as passenger numbers plummet

Air
05-11-2020 8:02 am
Michael Pihach

Michael Pihach

Michael Pihach is an award-winning journalist with a keen interest in digital storytelling. In addition to PAX, Michael has also written for CBC Life, Ryerson University Magazine, IN Magazine, and DailyXtra.ca. Michael joins PAX after years of working at popular Canadian television shows, such as Steven and Chris, The Goods and The Marilyn Denis Show.

In response to low passenger numbers due to the COVID-19 pandemic, WestJet has announced that it is extending flight suspensions into early July.

In an update sent to media on Sunday night (May 10th), the Calgary-based carrier revealed that domestic route suspensions will continue through July 4th, and that several of its domestic seasonal routes also won't begin until July.

WestJet also confirmed that it is extending its temporary transborder and international route suspensions through to June 25th.

The airline said the move is to “address significantly reduced guest demand for air travel while continuing to keep critical economic lifelines open for essential travel and cargo.”

Customers with travel booked after June 5th through July 4th will be notified of their options, the carrier said.

The update comes after WestJet announced that it would be cancelling more than 4,000 domestic flights weekly through May as the COVID-19 crisis continues to impact the aviation industry.

Last week, WestJet CEO Ed Sims said the COVID-19 crisis has forced the carrier to make some tough decisions, such as what the size of its fleet may look like in the coming years.

Sims suggested the airline may never return to the size it was before the COVID-19 pandemic set in, as reported by the Calgary Herald.

Since the onset of COVID-19, WestJet has implemented a series of sanitation measures designed to keep travellers safe through the duration of their travel journey.

In support of the directive that was issued on April 20th, 2020, it is mandatory for guests to wear protective face coverings throughout their travel journey, including at the airport and while in flight.

Travellers will be required to have a protective face covering prior to CATSA security screening.

While physical distancing is still mandatory, WestJet worked diligently to bring love and joy to mothers everywhere for Mother’s Day on Sunday (May 10th).

Over the last three weeks, WestJet Cargo helped deliver 15 tonnes of flowers across Canada, just in time for Mother’s Day, the airline said.

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