WestJet Announces Non-Stop Service between YVR and London Gatwick

Beginning May 6, 2016, guests will enjoy WestJet service aboard its new B767 wide-body

September 15, 2015 · Richmond, B.C.

WestJet today announced the launch of new non-stop service between Vancouver International Airport / Aéroport international de Vancouver (YVR) and London Gatwick Airport (LGW). Beginning May 6, 2016, the new service will operate using WestJet’s new Boeing 767-300 wide-body aircraft, complete with a signature new maple leaf-themed tail.

“We are delighted to welcome WestJet’s new wide-body from London Gatwick,” said Craig Richmond, President & CEO, Vancouver Airport Authority. ”More flights to London means more seats for Europe-hungry B.C. travellers, another opportunity for WestJet to share its spirited brand with guests across the pond and more jobs at the airport and throughout our local travel industry.”

WestJet’s new international service will create 140 new local jobs in the transportation and tourism sectors, $5.2 million in wages and approximately $8.5 million in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the province of British Columbia.

Each flight will offer seats for 262 guests, including a Plus cabin with premium seats for 24. Onboard, guests will also enjoy WestJet Connect, the airline’s new inflight entertainment and wireless connectivity system.

“Canadians have been paying far too much to fly to Europe for far too long and today, as we have throughout our history, we’re going to fix that,” said Bob Cummings, WestJet Executive Vice-President, Commercial. “We are offering non-stop flights at very low prices and we’re proud to once again lower airfares and make travel more affordable.” WestJet is offering one-way fares between Vancouver and Gatwick starting as low as $299 (CAD).

Vancouver was among WestJet’s five original destinations when it launched service in February 1996. Since then, WestJet has grown to offer 30 non-stop routes with more than 60 daily flights operating out of YVR.

YVR

About Vancouver Airport Authority

Vancouver Airport Authority is a community-based, not-for-profit organization that manages Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Canada's second busiest airport, YVR served more than 20 million passengers in 2015. Fifty-six airlines serve YVR, connecting people and businesses to more than 118 non-stop destinations worldwide. YVR was voted Best Airport in North America for the sixth consecutive year, and Best Airport in the World for its size category of 10-20 million passengers, in the 2015 Skytrax World Airport Awards. Vancouver Airport Authority is a dedicated community partner and in 2015 donated more than $900,000 to local organizations. We are committed to creating an airport that British Columbia can be proud of: a premier global gateway, local economic generator and community contributor. For more information, please visit www.yvr.ca.