WestJet has finalized its acquisition of Sunwing Airlines and has entered into a merger agreement that was first proposed over a year ago.
Calgary-based WestJet said it initially plans to operate both airlines independently, which means that Sunwing’s 18 jets and 2,000 employees will continue to fly Caribbean and transatlantic routes. means to provide Over time, however, the two airlines are expected to operate under one WestJet banner, with the airline saying it will move from “competitor to collaborator.”
WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech said the transaction “significantly expands our reach in Eastern Canada.” news releaseTogether, we will strategically enhance our sun and leisure offerings to provide more affordable and accessible travel opportunities for Canadians. “
In addition to flights, Sunwing also operates a packaged vacation tour business, part of which will be fully transferred to WestJet Vacations, based in Toronto and Montreal.
Maintaining the presence of these offices and staff is one of the conditions the government required before approving the deal and allowing it in March.
The government also argued that the combined airlines would maintain capacity on routes most affected by the merger, such as those currently served by both airlines.
The deal faced opposition from various regulatory bodies and Sunwing’s own union before finalizing.
