WestJet Cargo has started dedicated freighter cargo services to fulfil the "large-scale needs" of businesses, freight forwarders, and shippers across the carrier's network.
WestJet Cargo together with the GTA Group inaugurated the launch of three 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters in Toronto on April 20 and in Halifax on April 21 — and next in Vancouver.
WestJet Cargo and the GTA Group's dedicated freighters will now begin operating between six stations in Halifax, Calgary, Los Angeles, Miami, Toronto and Vancouver.
In the announcement, WestJet said these freighter services would be integrated into its existing network — and will work in tandem with the cargo-carrying bellies of WestJet's existing fleet of over a hundred 737 aircraft.
With a payload of 23 tons, the three freighters will have a weekly capacity of over 1500 tons.
"Their operation will create global connectivity and open trade lanes between Canada and the Caribbean, Europe, Japan and the United States," the statement said.
Canada's expanding cargo market
In addition to the broad range of commodities already carried by WestJet Cargo such as perishables, e-commerce and live animals, the dedicated freighters have enabled a broad expansion of the carrier's service offerings, including the capacity to carry oversized items and unitized e-commerce containers.
"Our incredibly talented and creative team at WestJet Cargo is eager to satisfy the demand of Canada's underserved air cargo market, by bringing competitive cost advantages, increased choice, reliable on-time performance and exemplary customer service," said Kirsten de Bruijn, WestJet executive vice-president, Cargo.
"Our inauguration signifies a green light to do just that, as we strive to meet the needs of Canada's expanding cargo market," she added.
WestJet noted that this is an important milestone for WestJet Cargo, as it asserts its role as a key player in the Canadian airfreight market, facilitating the country's access to a competitively priced and reliable air cargo service.
