CALGARY — WestJet is heading to the City of Angels with new direct service between Winnipeg and Los Angeles, starting Oct. 31, 2022.

The route, which will operate 3x/weekly (Monday, Friday, Saturday) on a year-round basis, will strengthen ties and transportation between Winnipeg’s expanding television and film industry and the hub of entertainment itself, Los Angeles, says the airline.

Upon launch, WestJet will be the only airline to provide direct connectivity between the two cities.

The new route was officially announced at a special event yesterday, Aug. 17, at Winnipeg’s Metropolitan Entertainment Centre with notable guests of the film and television sector along with government officials. Last year, the film and television industry brought over $365.5 million worth of production volume to Manitoba.

“It was an honour to attend today’s celebration that is the result of the collaborative partnership between Winnipeg Airports Authority, Economic Development Winnipeg, the Government of Manitoba and WestJet,” said John Weatherill, WestJet, Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “WestJet is thrilled to be a part of this investment creating a new, direct link for business, tourism and entertainment between these two unique cities, building on our commitment to Winnipeg.”

Heather Stefanson, Premier of Manitoba, who also attended yesterday’s event, added: “Manitoba’s film and television industry plays a key role in our provincial economy, and I want to commend WestJet for this strategic investment that will have significant benefits not only for the entertainment industry, but for Manitoba’s tourism, trade and business sectors. As Manitoba’s economy takes off into a new era of growth, I look forward to continuing to work with WestJet and all economic development partners to identify opportunities of growth and promote Manitoba as a destination of choice.”

Guests travelling beyond Los Angeles will have access to a broad network and benefits through WestJet’s codeshare partnership with Delta Air Lines. This includes codeshare flights to 20 major U.S. cities, the ability to earn and redeem WestJet Rewards on both airlines, top tier frequent flyer benefits through the entire journey, and access to Delta’s LAX SkyClub lounge for eligible guests.

This winter, WestJet will be providing more nonstop routes in Winnipeg than any other carrier. In addition, the WestJet Group will be increasing capacity to and from Winnipeg by 80% in comparison to 2021, serving 22 nonstop, direct routes and producing the largest year-over-year growth of any major airport in the group’s network.

Main image, from left: Nick Hays, President and CEO, Winnipeg Airports Authority, Dayna Spiring, President and CEO, Winnipeg Economic Development; John Weatherill, WestJet Chief Commercial Officer, The Honourable Heather Stefanson, Premier of Manitoba; and Rod Bruinooge, Interim CEO, Manitoba Film and Music