Unifi Aviation, a US provider of aviation services, is marking a major milestone as it enters the Canadian market, taking over ground handling operations for WestJet at Calgary International Airport.
Calgary International Airport
One of the most significant aspects of Unifi Aviation’s Canadian venture is its recent partnership with WestJet at Calgary International Airport.
Unifi Aviation’s scope of services for WestJet includes towing, ramp handling, and baggage services, all of which are pivotal for ensuring a smooth and efficient airport operation.
As of November 7, 2023, the Unifi team will officially take over control of critical ground handling operations.
Calgary International Airport plays a pivotal role in WestJet’s global operations. As the airline’s connecting hub, it serves as a central point for travelers connecting to various destinations in the airline’s extensive network.
This strategic location is one of WestJet’s busiest and most significant assets, and Unifi Aviation’s role in its operations is instrumental.
A Growing Family
To support this ambitious expansion, Unifi Aviation welcomed nearly 200 new employees to their family. Additionally, over 75 percent of the existing staff chose to join the Unifi team.
This shift not only brings fresh talent and enthusiasm to the company but also ensures that valuable experience and knowledge are retained.
Unifi Aviation’s CEO Speaks
Gautam Thakkar, CEO of Unifi Aviation, was enthusiastic about the Canadian milestone, saying, “We are thrilled to enter the Canadian aviation market through our partnership with WestJet, overseeing critical ground handling operations for the airline.”
“It’s been an incredibly transformative time for Unifi, and over the last two years, we focused on building a scalable infrastructure, strong leadership, efficient processes, and cutting-edge technology to support our frontline employees in the critical work they do,” he said.

WestJet’s Perspective
David Powell, WestJet’s Vice-President of Airports, shared his thoughts on this partnership. “As we continue to strengthen the WestJet Group’s investments in Western Canada, we are thrilled to be partnering with Unifi at our global connecting hub in Calgary,” he said.
“Their partnership will serve to further bolster our position in delivering the safe, caring, and reliable service we’re known for. Unifi is aligned with our culture and commitment to safety above all, and we look forward to our continued mutual growth.”
About Unifi Aviation
Unifi Aviation is the largest provider of aviation services in North America. The company has a presence in more than 200 airports around the world, including over a dozen in the United Kingdom, after acquiring Up & Away Aviation earlier this year.

Did you know AviationSource has two newsletters? One covers the general news and analysis of the industry as a whole, and the other to do with emergencies that take place throughout the year! To subscribe to our General News Newsletter, CLICK HERE! To subscribe to our Emergencies, Accidents & Incidents Newsletter, CLICK HERE!