WestJet axes two Alberta flight routes as travellers shift away from U.S. destinations
As impacts from U.S.-imposed tariffs and President Donald Trump’s 51st state comments weigh on Albertans, WestJet says two flight routes out of the province to the U.S. have been axed due to a drop in travellers.
Despite a recent poll showing Albertans were the most likely in Canada to still proceed with a trip to the U.S. this year, WestJet confirmed to Daily Hive that two flight routes out of Alberta to U.S. destinations have been cut, and “a shift in bookings from the U.S. to other destinations” was a factor in the decision.
The flights that were cut were a planned seasonal service between Calgary (YYC) and New York’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA) for this summer, with all impacted guests notified of the change and provided alternative options through the airline’s daily service to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).
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Over in Edmonton, WestJet suspended its planned service between Edmonton (YEG) and Orlando International Airport (MCO) from its summer operating schedule.
“We have observed an increase in bookings to sun destinations such as Mexico and the Caribbean, and to transatlantic destinations such as Ireland, Scotland, and Iceland, and we remain focused on continuing to fly where there is demand,” said Josh Yeats, a strategist with Media and Public Relations WestJet.
“It is common across the aviation industry to adjust schedules to service guest demand, and WestJet is always reviewing its flying schedule, which reflects where people want to go, and we will continue to fly where there is demand.”
Have you decided to cancel a trip to the United States this year due to the current Trump administration’s actions? Let us know in the comments below.