The WestJet Group has celebrated a further longhaul network expansion with the launch of its first-ever flight to Seoul, South Korea.
Departing from Calgary International Airport (YYC), WestJet flight 86 marked the establishment of a direct link between Alberta and South Korea.
This new route furthers WestJet’s commitment to expanding its global network and fostering closer ties between Canada and South Korea. It now strengthens travel and trade connections between Canada and Asia.
John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the significance of this new route.
“WestJet’s new service to Seoul reflects the strong foundation of mutual support, shared values, and successful trade initiatives between Canada and South Korea. This significant milestone will further strengthen cultural exchange and economic ties between our two nations.”
Catering to Growing Demand
The new Calgary-Seoul route caters to the growing demand for travel between Canada and South Korea.
With historical connections fostering strong people-to-people ties, both countries experience a rise in immigration, tourism, and business travel.
South Korea is also a major source country for Canadian international students, highlighting the growing cultural exchange between the two nations.
Boosting Trade and Cargo Opportunities
The service offers a significant 60 tonnes of cargo capacity per week, supporting the airline’s aim of bolstering trade relations between Canada and South Korea.
South Korea is a vital trading partner, ranking as Canada’s seventh largest overall and sixth largest for imports and exports.
WestJet’s direct connection streamlines the import and export process for electronics, e-commerce goods, and general cargo, facilitating a more efficient flow of trade between the two countries.
In-Flight Experience & Codesharing
“We’re thrilled to offer Canadians a familiar and convenient way to explore South Korea,” concluded Weatherill.
WestJet prioritizes passenger experience, offering an elevated in-flight experience on the Calgary-Seoul route. Passengers can expect a delicious selection of both Western and Korean meal options, alongside a curated selection of Korean entertainment choices.
Additionally, onboard announcements will be made in Korean, ensuring a more comfortable and familiar journey for Korean-speaking passengers.
The airline’s codeshare agreement with Korean Airlines allows passengers seamless connections to six additional Asian cities beyond Seoul.
This partnership provides a convenient single ticket option with baggage transfers and WestJet Dollar rewards, allowing passengers to explore a wider range of destinations in Asia without the hassle of multiple bookings and baggage claim.
Calgary Hub Strengthens International Network
WestJet’s non-stop service to Seoul joins a growing network of transoceanic destinations available this summer.
Passengers departing from Calgary can connect to popular destinations like Tokyo and seven European destinations, further solidifying WestJet’s position as a leader in international travel.
The recent announcement to transition the seasonal Calgary-Tokyo service to a year-round route further reinforces WestJet’s commitment to expanding its presence in Asia.
It offers Canadians more travel options and strengthening economic and cultural ties between Canada and the region.
With the launch of the Calgary-Seoul route, WestJet opens a new chapter in Canada-South Korea relations.
This exciting development promises to enhance travel experiences, streamline trade processes, and foster closer cultural and economic ties between the two nations.
Click the banner to subscribe to our weekly newsleter.
Click the photo to join our WhatsApp channel so then you can stay up to date with everything going on in the aviation industry!
