Delta and Korean Air Bet on WestJet: Acquire 25% Stake in Canadian Airline
Delta Air Lines and Korean Air announced a key strategic move: the purchase of a combined 25% stake in WestJet. This investment marks a new chapter in the long-standing relationship both airlines have maintained with the Canadian carrier and promises significant benefits for travelers across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Deal Details
The agreement, officially announced this Thursday, stipulates that Delta will acquire a 15% stake in WestJet for $330 million, while Korean Air will invest $220 million for the remaining 10%. Both transactions will be executed through the purchase of shares from Onex Partners, the private equity platform of Canadian group Onex.
Additionally, Delta intends to transfer a 2.3% stake to its Joint Venture partner, Air France-KLM, for $50 million. This secondary transaction is still subject to approval by the European group.
Despite these changes, Onex will retain control of WestJet, which is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta. Affiliated funds and co-investors of the Onex Group will also participate in the sale.
A Bet on Global Connectivity
The investment not only strengthens corporate ties but also represents a direct commitment to enhancing global connectivity. Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta, stated: “Investing in a world-class partner like WestJet aligns our interests and ensures we remain focused on delivering a global network and a top-tier customer experience.”
→ WestJet Expands Domestic Network with New Routes and Increased Frequencies for Summer
Walter Cho, President of Korean Air and the Hanjin Group, emphasized that this move is part of their commitment to transpacific connectivity: “This strategic alliance will bolster our global network and create long-term value for passengers, offering them more options and convenience.”
Meanwhile, Alexis von Hoensbroech, CEO of WestJet, highlighted that these investments reflect confidence in the airline’s differentiated performance, especially after a challenging period for the aviation industry.
A Solidified Relationship
Delta and WestJet have been partners since February 2011. Through their alliance, they have facilitated an expanded global network and seamless travel options between the U.S. and Canada. The U.S. airline, which celebrates its centennial this year, has operated in Canada for over 90 years and has made similar investments in companies like Air France-KLM, LATAM, Aeroméxico, Virgin Atlantic, China Eastern, and Hanjin KAL (the parent company of Korean Air).
For its part, Korean Air has maintained a codeshare agreement with WestJet since June 2012. Thanks to this cooperation, passengers can connect from Seoul Incheon to Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary, with onward travel to destinations served by WestJet in Canada and the U.S., as well as within the Asian network of the Korean carrier.
What’s Next?
The closing of the transaction is pending certain regulatory approvals. Barclays is acting as financial advisor to WestJet and Onex for the deal.
This move reinforces WestJet’s role as a key player in global aviation, now backed by three of the world’s strongest airline groups: Delta, Korean Air, and Air France-KLM.
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