CALGARY, AB – WestJet today announced the launch of new non-stop daily service between Fort St. John, British Columbia and Vancouver, and Fort St. John and Calgary. The service will be operated by WestJet Encore’s fleet of Bombardier Q400 NextGen aircraft.

“The announcement of the first two cities to be served by WestJet Encore is an historic moment for our new airline,” said Ferio Pugliese, Executive Vice-President, WestJet, and President, WestJet Encore. “As Canada’s low-fare leader, we look forward to introducing our award-winning guest experience to Canadians in smaller communities while connecting to our network of 85 destinations in 18 countries.”

“We are very pleased to bring our new WestJet Encore service to the Energetic City,” said Chris Avery, WestJet Vice-President, Network and Schedule Planning. “The diverse nature of the region’s economic base of oil, natural gas, forestry and agriculture creates a strong foundation for this new service. We believe the Peace Country will appreciate our unique blend of high value, low fares and remarkable guest experience.”

“Fort St. John is British Columbia’s Energy Capital and the regional service centre for all of northeast BC,” said Fort St. John Mayor Lori Ackerman. “This announcement is another key indication of the vibrant and healthy investment environment in Fort St John. We are thrilled to have more choices when it comes to air services and new connections to strategic cities in Western Canada, and are very proud that WestJet Encore sees our potential for great opportunity.”

WestJet Encore will take delivery of its first two Canadian-built, 78-seat Bombardier Q400 turboprop aircraft in June 2013 and add five more by the end of the year. WestJet has firm orders for a total of 20 Q400s and options for an additional 25 over the next six years.