Though two of the carrier’s fleet of four converted B737-800 freighters are currently parked up in Hamilton, Ontario and Windsor, Ontario, respectively, for now, the other two are busy not only with weekday services between Newark (EWR) and Bermuda (BDA) and bi-weekly Havanna (HAV) flights, but also with charter missions. Launched in the final quarter of 2023, WestJet Cargo’s specialized Charter Service has literally taken off, bringing air cargo flexibility to customers across North and Latin America, often flying to key destinations such as Chicago, Montreal, Orlando, Halifax, Vancouver, or Los Angeles, among others. With a 23-ton uplift capacity, the aircraft offers attractive solutions for all kinds of commodities from e-commerce (which is a growing favorite) to electronics or perishables such as fresh produce or seafood. The service goes beyond simply deploying an aircraft. It includes a specialized team involved in technical operations, load control, and fleet management to make sure that the freighters are handled safely and efficiently and has a dedicated 24/7 charter desk providing 24/7 support and communication where required. Each mission is carefully planned to ensure minimum environmental impact. WestJet Cargo does this by using advanced flight management systems to optimize routes and thus reduce fuel consumption and emissions. “The use of modern, fuel-efficient aircraft and strategic load planning further enhances operational efficiency, minimizing the environmental impact per ton of cargo transported,” the release states.

Kirsten De Bruijn, Executive Vice President, WestJet Cargo “Our charter service has rapidly gained momentum, completing over 40 charters since its launch. We are able to offer our clients a unique combination of flexibility, expertise, and reliable service that caters to their specific needs. Our experienced team works tirelessly to ensure that every shipment is handled with the utmost care, reflecting our commitment to operational excellence. Sustainability is at the core of our operations, and we are dedicated to continuously improving our practices to better serve our customers and the environment.”