Key Takeaways
- WestJet’s new route strengthens Calgary’s global connectivity with direct flights to Reykjavik.
- The service operates four times weekly, enhancing travel options to Iceland’s natural wonders.
- Partnership with Icelandair ensures seamless travel and baggage handling for passengers.
WestJet inaugurated its highly anticipated non-stop service between Calgary and Reykjavik, Iceland on Tuesday, marking the airline’s seventh direct connection to Europe from its Calgary hub this summer. The sold-out inaugural WestJet Flight 38 departed Calgary at 7:55 p.m. local time, with the 737 MAX aircraft scheduled to arrive in Reykjavik at 8:25 a.m. on Wednesday.
The new seasonal route reinforces WestJet’s European network expansion and strengthens the Calgary airport’s global connectivity. It operates four times weekly until October 13, with return flights from Reykjavik to Calgary departing at 9:45 a.m. and arriving at 10:43 a.m. local time.
“Iceland offers one of the most geologically diverse and breathtaking landscapes in the world and we are thrilled to provide convenient direct access to Reykjavik as we continue to expand our European network,” said Angela Avery, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President. “As the only airline providing direct connectivity between Calgary and Iceland, WestJet continues to build its presence as Canada’s leisure champion.”
WestJet’s service utilizes its growing 737 MAX fleet and capitalizes on Calgary’s status as the best-connected mid-sized city in North America. It enables seamless travel for Canadians across the country through WestJet’s expansive domestic network in its Calgary hub.
“On behalf of The Calgary Airport Authority, I am thrilled to congratulate WestJet on its inaugural non-stop route from Calgary to Reykjavik,” said Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO. “This new route solidifies YYC’s role and status as a global hub.”
The flight’s arrival in Reykjavik was welcomed by Gudmundur Dadi Runarsson, Director for Airline Relations at Keflavik Airport, who said, “WestJet is showing confidence in Iceland as a destination by adding it to its impressive selection of travel opportunities.”
An interline agreement with Icelandair enables WestJet passengers to travel across both airlines’ networks on a single boarding pass, with seamless check-in and baggage handling to the final destination.
The new route provides travelers from across Canada with direct access to Iceland’s renowned natural wonders, including geysers, glaciers, and the northern lights. It also opens up Western Canada as an enticing destination for Icelandic visitors keen to explore the Canadian Rockies and vibrant cities like Calgary.
While offering enhanced travel convenience, the Calgary-Reykjavik service marks another milestone in WestJet’s commitment to affordable air travel and strengthening its position in the competitive transatlantic market.
The airline now offers seven European destinations from Calgary this summer, including Dublin, Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, Paris, and Rome. As travel demand remains robust, WestJet continues executing its strategic growth plans to broaden its international network and reinforce Calgary’s emergence as a major North American air travel hub.
