The Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport Authority is pleased to welcome WestJet’s new flights into the Ottawa market.

WestJet announced that effective September 15, 2003, it will enhance its schedule across the network, including several new non-stop flights to and from Ottawa, and changes to some existing inbound flights that will now be direct, non-stop.

In particular, new flights have been added between Ottawa and Calgary, Edmonton, St. John’s and Gander. Further changes have been made to the schedule to increase frequency between Halifax and Ottawa.

Claude Bennett, Chairman of the Board of the Ottawa International Airport Authority welcomed the news of the service enhancements. “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to congratulate WestJet on its success to date, and wish them continued growth. This is good news for WestJet, for the Ottawa International Airport, and most importantly for the community. We are thrilled to be in a position to accommodate these additional flights and others into our new state-of-the-art passenger terminal building, scheduled to open October 12th. ”

“Since commencing operations in Ottawa, WestJet has grown its business by more than 200%. At a time when some carriers are shrinking, it’s wonderful to see such growth, and such a vote of confidence in the Ottawa market”, said Paul Benoit, President and CEO of the Ottawa International Airport. He added, “we will be working closely with WestJet to ensure the success of these new routes”.

OMCIAA operates Ottawa International Airport without government subsidies under a 60-year lease transfer agreement with Transport Canada. The Authority’s mandate is to manage, operate and develop Airport facilities and lands in support of the economic growth of the National Capital Region. Its 40-year old terminal building was last expanded in 1987. Since that time, passenger traffic has increased, necessitating the Airport’s current expansion project.

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For additional information, please contact:
Krista Kealey (613) 248-2050
Director of Communications and Public Affairs