WestJet Airlines (TSX:WJA) is restarting dozens of routes across Canada as it prepares for a coming travel boom.
The Calgary-based air carrier confirmed in a news release that its restoring service to numerous airports in Atlantic Canada, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia.
Ahead of an expected travel boom, WestJet Airlines is also adding several new destinations with up to 26 non-stop routes in and out of Toronto’s Pearson International Airport starting in July.
"WestJet remains committed to building back stronger for the betterment of all Canadians and as we look ahead to reconnecting friends, family and loved ones, the safe restart of travel is essential to Canada's economic recovery," said John Weatherill, WestJet's Chief Commercial Officer.
WestJet's competitors Air Canada (TSX:AC) and Transat AT (TSX:TRZ) have already received aid packages from the federal government, following COVID-19’s massive disruption to air travel. But so far, the now privately held WestJet has been left to fend for itself.
The federal government has repeatedly stated that any COVID relief package would come after carriers refund passengers for cancelled flights and restore regional routes.
