CALGARY — WestJet has converted five of its 25 options to firm orders for Bombardier Q400 NextGen aircraft, scheduled for delivery in the second half of 2015. The first of the five will arrive in June 2015 for WestJet Encore.

With the conversion of these options, WestJet will have a fleet of 25 Q400s by the end of 2015. The airline has further options for 20 more Bombardier Q400 NextGen aircraft between 2016 and 2018.

“From our fleet of nine Q400s today, this growth will enable us to expand and strengthen our network,” said Ferio Pugliese, President, WestJet Encore. “These aircraft will serve new markets, increase frequencies between existing cities and strengthen our network by creating new connections between existing markets and optimizing capacity by time-of-day. We also anticipate new transborder opportunities as we continue to grow.

“Our goal has been to liberate Canadians from the high cost of air travel and we are delivering,” said Pugliese. “Our low-cost business model and remarkable guest experience has enabled WestJet Encore to be a success for Canadians and for WestJet. We look forward to continuing this successful and sustainable growth story.”