WestJet closes its ultra low-cost airline Swoop

WestJet Group announced Friday that it will close its ultra low-cost carrier Swoop and merge it with WestJet.

The company noted that the ratification of its recent agreement with its pilots allows it to integrate all of its staff across multiple airlines into a single flag.

“As negotiated in the collective bargaining agreement, WestJet Group will now begin efforts to integrate its Swoop airline,” the company said.

→ WestJet Group completes acquisition of Sunwing

“Through an accelerated process, the airline anticipates full integration into its mainline operations by the end of October. To avoid impacting travelers, Swoop will operate its current network until the end of its published schedule on October 28. Swoop employees will transfer to WestJet.”

While the demise of Swoop, which launched in June 2018, will remove a major player in Canada’s low-cost travel sector, WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech says the airline will continue to offer affordable options.

“This integration will enhance our ability to serve a broader spectrum of customers,” he said. “Instead of just 16 aircraft for the ultra low-cost market, every aircraft in our fleet will offer everything from ultra-affordable travel options to a premium in-flight experience.”

With information from CBC News