WestJet Cargo granted approval for freighter operations after aircraft conversion

Image source: WestJet Cargo

Transport Canada Certifies WestJet's Boeing Converted Freighters to Launch All-Cargo Operations

Transport Canada has awarded certification to WestJet's Boeing 737-800 Converted Freighters. This certification allows the airline to begin cargo-only operations with the freighters. Before using its freighters, the airline has been awaiting certification of the conversion program.

Commencing All-Cargo Operations

WestJet Cargo and its partner, GTA Group, will "rapidly implement three freighters into service," with the first flight anticipated for April 22. The fourth freighter is anticipated to join the fleet later this year after its conversion is completed.

Booking Space on the Aircraft

Beginning on April 1, customers will be able to reserve space on the aircraft. WestJet Executive Vice President, Cargo, Kirsten de Bruijn, stated, "Today marks a long-awaited milestone for WestJet Cargo and the GTA Group." This achievement will allow the company to disrupt the Canadian air cargo industry. It will offer customers more options, competitive prices, and WestJet's exceptional customer service.

Freighters' Initial Services

The dedicated freighters will initially concentrate on North American services, including Calgary, Halifax, Toronto, Vancouver, Los Angeles, and Miami. Alongside the airline, GTA Group will sell and manage freighter capacity. Chairman of the GTA Group of Companies Mario D'Urso stated, "Today is an exciting day for the GTA Group."

Partnership to New Heights

He added that this partnership with WestJet Cargo will propel GTA Group to new heights. We are now in an excellent position to meet the needs of the rapidly expanding Canadian cargo market, thanks to the capacity of these four dedicated freighters.

WestJet's Freighters

In April 2022, WestJet received the first of its freighters. It hoped to have the freighters operational by the end of 2022. Kirsten de Bruijn added, "We appreciate Transport Canada's commitment to certifying these aircraft, which will better support Canada's national transportation supply chain."

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