CALGARY — WestJet is making aviation history with its largest aircraft order to date, finalising a deal with Boeing for dozens of narrowbody and widebody aircraft, with additional options that push the airline’s future fleet growth well into the next decade.

The order includes 60 737-10 MAX narrowbody aircraft – with options for an additional 25 – and seven 787-9 Dreamliner widebody aircraft, with options for four more. In total, the order increases the airline’s current order book to 123 aircraft and 40 options.

“With the addition of these aircraft, WestJet has the largest order book of any airline in Canada and will double our fleet of Dreamliners, underpinning our growth plans and our commitment to affordable travel options for Canadians from coast-to-coast and exciting career paths for our people,” said WestJet Chief Executive Officer, Alexis von Hoensbroech. “These highly efficient and comfortable aircraft are critical to the growth and renewal of our fleet and will also significantly improve our fuel consumption.”

WestJet has served millions of Canadians onboard Boeing aircraft since its inception in 1996. It currently operates 193 passenger aircraft, inclusive of 147 Boeing 737s, seven 787s and 39 DeHavilland Q400s. With an average age of approximately 10 years, WestJet’s fleet is considered among the youngest of North American carriers.

Economic benefits are expected on both sides of the border as a result of this deal. Canada is one of Boeing’s largest international supply bases, providing aerospace parts for all Boeing commercial airplane models in production and contributing $4 billion in economic benefit to Canada each year.

Said Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade: “This agreement between WestJet and Boeing reflects a pragmatic approach to doing business, creating new opportunities, economic benefits and long-term jobs on both sides of the border, while ensuring that WestJet is well-equipped to grow, offer more options for passengers and better connect Canadians.”