WestJet Launches First Flight to Seoul, Korea

The WestJet Group has launched its first flight to Seoul from its global hub in Calgary, establishing a direct link between Alberta and South Korea.

WestJet Group officials said the 17MAY departure of WS flight 86 underscores its commitment to expanding its 787 global hub at YYC and fostering greater ties between Alberta's vibrant visitor economy and Asia's robust business and tourism landscape.

"Canada and South Korea's decades-long history in mutual support, shared values, and bilateral trade initiatives have set the stage for WestJet's service to Seoul, marking a significant milestone in strengthening cultural exchange and economic ties between the two nations," said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. "Bringing an authentic, reliable and essential service offering to life was possible due to the collaboration and advocacy of our dedicated WestJetters, countless government agencies and stakeholders passionate about bringing our cultures closer together."

WestJet service to Seoul will operate on the airline's 787 Dreamliner three times per week through October 27, 2024, and will return in Spring 2025.

• Canada and South Korea share strong people to-people linkages stemming from historical connections, which are enhanced by increasing immigration and tourism flows, as well as business visitors. South Korea is one of Canada's top source countries of international students.
• Alberta also has strong trade ties with many countries in the Indo-Pacific regions, which, together, represent Alberta's second largest and most diverse export market. 
• With three weekly flights and 60 tonnes of cargo capacity into and out of South Korea, WestJet reaffirms its commitment to bolstering ties and delivering efficient and dependable cargo solutions.
• South Korea is Canada's seventh largest trading partner and sixth largest import and export partner.
• WestJet's direct connection to ICN supports trade opportunities, streamlining Canadian exports and facilitating the importation of electronics, e-commerce goods and general cargo.

"WestJet's brand-new service to Seoul will inspire Canadians to explore their horizons in South Korea with the convenience of flying a familiar airline. We have gone above and beyond to ensure all guests have an elevated experience onboard including introducing the option of western and Korean inflight meals, Korean entertainment options and onboard Korean announcements,” said Weatherill.

Guests will also have access to six additional cities across four Asian countries from Incheon International Airport (ICN) through WestJet's codeshare agreement with Korean Airlines. Through the agreement, guests will have more opportunity to explore unique transpacific Asian destinations beyond Seoul with a single connection at ICN and the convenience of booking their entire journey with one ticket, baggage transfers, and earning WestJet Dollars throughout.

WestJet's non-stop flight to Seoul is one of many transoceanic service offerings available this summer. Guests travelling out of WestJet's hub in Calgary can also connect to Tokyo and seven European destinations as part of the airline's robust international offerings. Earlier this month, WestJet also revealed plans to transition its seasonal service between Calgary and Tokyo to a yearly cadence, further establishing ties in Asia.

Full schedule details can be found at https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/flights/direct-flights.