WestJet will shut down Swoop, ending budget airline offering | 24CA News
Budget airline Swoop will shut down later this yr and have its operations folded into WestJet, the corporate introduced Friday.
The merger into WestJet’s operations is anticipated to be accomplished by Oct. 28, the Calgary-based airline mentioned. Swoop will function its present community till then, and Swoop staff will transfer to WestJet as soon as the merger is accomplished.
“The WestJet Group is confident in the outcome of this negotiated decision and the path forward to integrate Swoop into WestJet’s operations,” WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech mentioned in a news launch.
“This integration will enhance our ability to serve a broader spectrum of guests. Instead of only 16 aircraft serving the ultra-low-cost market, each aircraft, in our 180-strong fleet, will offer ultra-affordable travel options through to a premium inflight experience.”
It’s not but clear if WestJet will go away the markets and routes serviced by Swoop, or change their choices with WestJet flights. WestJet didn’t instantly reply to Global News’ remark request.
WestJet revealed the choice because it introduced the second collective bargaining settlement between WestJet and the Air Line Pilots Association had been ratified.
The merger was negotiated within the collective settlement, WestJet mentioned. The settlement is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2023, and can be in place till Dec. 31, 2026.
The two sides had been on the point of a doubtlessly catastrophic strike final month however prevented one after reaching a deal on the eleventh hour.
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