Sunwing ceases operations following WestJet consolidation
The operations of Canadian LCC Sunwing have been integrated into WestJet, following the latter’s takeover of the former in May 2023.
Sunwing’s final revenue flight landed on May 28. Founded in 2005 the airline operated nine Boeing 737-family aircraft at the close of operations, with a further nine that had already been reconfigured as WestJet planrs.
WestJet previously integrated its LCC subsidiary Swoop into its core business in 2024 as the trend across North America has been to replace the ultra low-cost model with a two or three class offering. WestJet says that the integrations allow it to offer a more ‘constant’ proposition for passengers.
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All jet aircraft are now integrated under a single Air Operator Certificate (AOC), including 16 former Swoop aircraft, another nine former Lynx Air aircraft which were secured after that airline went out of business, and now 18 more from Sunwing Airlines. WestJet’s unified narrowbody operation will begin to realize efficiencies once it transforms these aircraft with cabin reconfigurations to the WestJet standard interior being completed through 2025.
“The final Sunwing-operated flight this week is a time to reflect,” von Hoensbroech notes, recognising that Sunwing played an influential role in the Canadian leisure travel market. “I know every Sunwing employee, past and present feels their contributions have mattered to advancing the experience of air travel. To all WestJetters and former Sunwing team members: thank you. This milestone is your achievement, and a proud moment for us all.”