WestJet has announced November traffic results with a load factor of 75.9%, down slightly from last year's record level of 76.1%. Revenue passenger miles (RPM) increased 3.1% year over year, and capacity, measured in available seat miles (ASM), grew 3.4% over the same period.
"These results indicate another solid performance during these tough times," commented WestJet President and CEO Sean Durfy. "We continue to be pleased with our ability to profitably weather the 2009 economic environment, while moving forward with our strategic plans. We implemented our new reservation system, in mid-October, representing a foundational step in achieving our future growth objectives."
"Regrettably, the transition has impacted the level of service that our guests have come to expect and deserve, and these service issues are carrying on longer then we originally anticipated," said Sean Durfy. "Delivering a great guest experience has always been, and continues to be, paramount to all of us at WestJet. In times of challenge, we are always grateful at how WestJetters rally to get things back on track as quickly as possible, and I thank them for their continued commitment. Improving this disruption in our quality of service is our number one priority. As such, we will now launch our new Frequent Guest and Credit Card programs after the busy holiday travel season is over and our guest experience returns to our high standards."
Durfy continued by stating that he expects the challenges experienced in the carrier's transition to its new reservations system will result in a decline in revenue per available seat mile between 11 to 13%.
"We remain committed to our future growth initiatives and are confident that our increasing capabilities and brand strength will enable us to successfully launch new programs and destinations," added Sean Durfy. "We continue to expand our presence in the transborder market and have recently added Bermuda to our growing list of 20 destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico."
