(Calgary) WestJet announced Thursday that it is making a substantial addition to its fleet with the acquisition of 42 planes.
Posted at 3:16 p.m.
The Calgary-based airline said it has reached an agreement with American aircraft manufacturer Boeing to get its hands on the 737-10 Max aircraft.
WestJet chief executive Alexis von Hoensbroech said the first deliveries of the order would take place at the end of 2024, with all planes expected to be received in 2028.
As this transaction adds to an existing order of 23 aircraft, WestJet’s fleet will welcome a total of 65 new aircraft over the next six years.
The order announced Thursday also included an option for 22 additional aircraft, the fate of which will depend on demand.
WestJet argued that the Boeing 737-10 Max offered the lowest cost per seat among planes in this category, and that it was part of the company’s plans to offer more affordable flights.
WestJet did not say whether the 42 additional planes would only be used by WestJet or whether they would also be called upon to fly for its ultra-low-cost carrier, Swoop.