WestJet Launches New Halifax-Amsterdam Route
WestJet is expanding its transatlantic footprint with the launch of a brand-new nonstop service connecting Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) with Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). Set to begin on May 29, this new route marks WestJet’s return to Amsterdam after an absence of more than two years, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to growing its European network.
Operating six times per week on the 3,043-mile (2,644-nautical-mile) sector, the service will be flown using Boeing 737-8 aircraft. This route is notable as the carrier’s sixth-longest flight operated by this aircraft type, underscoring WestJet’s strategy to deploy efficient, modern planes on its key transatlantic routes. Previously, WestJet served Amsterdam from Calgary International Airport during the winter 2022-23 season using Boeing 787-9 aircraft, but the last flight operated in March 2023.
Jared Mikoch-Gerke, WestJet’s Director of Alliances and Airport Affairs, highlighted the economic and tourism benefits of the new route. “WestJet’s new service between Halifax and Amsterdam opens the door for record growth in Nova Scotia through vital investment that strengthens connectivity to Europe, furthering tourism and economic opportunities,” he said. This route is a pivotal part of WestJet’s broader transatlantic expansion from Halifax, a move aimed at boosting travel demand and increasing market share in Europe.
In addition to the Halifax-Amsterdam service, WestJet is planning further enhancements to its European network. The airline will restore service to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport in summer 2025, which will complement its existing destinations in Dublin, Edinburgh, and London Gatwick. These strategic additions are designed to cater to the growing demand from passengers looking for direct and convenient transatlantic travel options.
Patricia Vitalis, Executive Director of Operations at Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), welcomed WestJet’s decision to reinstate service to the Dutch capital. “Halifax is an exciting new destination at Schiphol and will be our sixth in Canada,” she remarked. She also noted that the deployment of Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft aligns with the airport’s policy to encourage airlines to operate their quietest and cleanest aircraft at Schiphol, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Passengers traveling on WestJet’s new route will benefit from the airline’s longstanding codeshare agreement with KLM. This partnership offers seamless connections across Europe, ensuring that travelers can easily access a vast network of destinations beyond Amsterdam.
Looking ahead to the summer 2025 season, WestJet plans to offer more than 844,000 two-way seats between Canada and Europe across 16 routes, achieving a year-on-year capacity growth of 5.2%. According to recent analysis, WestJet is set to capture a 6% capacity share of the market, competing with industry giants such as Air Canada (40%), Air Transat (15.7%), and Air France (6.8%).
With the introduction of the Halifax-Amsterdam service and its broader transatlantic expansion strategy, WestJet is poised to enhance connectivity, boost tourism, and provide travelers with more convenient options for flying between Canada and Europe.
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