Canadian airline WestJet has recently announced its plans to expand its fleet with the addition of five new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. This move is part of a multi-billion-dollar investment in the airline’s order book. The aircraft are expected to be delivered in early 2025, following the completion of leasing agreements with China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. (CDB Aviation) and international aircraft leasing company Avolon.
According to Mike Scott, WestJet Group’s Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer, “We are adding these five aircraft to our 737 MAX family very soon and look forward to this additional capacity enhancing our already forecasted fleet expansion, further enabling our execution of providing affordable and diverse air travel options for our guests.” He emphasized the significance of this expansion for WestJet, highlighting its role as Canada’s leisure champion and western home carrier.
The addition of these five Boeing 737 MAX 8s brings WestJet’s total expected deliveries to 22 by the end of 2025. Furthermore, the airline anticipates the addition of up to 62 more aircraft of this type by the end of 2028. This expansion positions WestJet’s narrowbody order book as the largest among Canadian airlines.
Jie Chen, Chief Executive Officer of CDB Aviation, expressed enthusiasm about the growing partnership with WestJet. He stated, “CDB Aviation values our expanding relationship with WestJet and we are pleased to be able to support the airline’s fleet expansion in an environmentally friendly manner as we lease these three new fuel-efficient B737-8 aircraft direct from our orderbook.”
Similarly, Paul Geaney, President and Chief Commercial Officer at Avolon, remarked on the flourishing relationship with WestJet. “We’re delighted to be expanding on our strong relationship with WestJet and are pleased to support WestJet’s fleet expansion needs from our Boeing orderbook,” he said. Geaney anticipates continued growth in the aviation sector, particularly in North America, and is eager to provide fleet solutions to key regional customers.
WestJet, established in 1996 with just three aircraft, 250 employees, and five destinations, has grown significantly over the past 27 years. The airline now operates over 180 aircraft, employs approximately 14,000 staff, and serves more than 100 destinations across 26 countries. During its operation, WestJet has notably reduced airfares and increased the flying population in Canada by more than 50 percent.