CONFIRMED: WestJet to Buy Sunwing

TravelPulse Canada has confirmed that WestJet will be buying Sunwing.

Reports today from various news sources said the purchase marks a new foray into the airline business for Onex Corp., which bought Calgary-based WestJet for $3.5-billion in 2019. The purchase price for the Sunwing deal, which requires government approval, was not disclosed.

The companies said the takeover could be finalized in late 2022.

The heads of Sunwing and WestJet said in a joint interview the companies' tour businesses will be combined and headquartered in Toronto, while WestJet will run Sunwing's airline from its Calgary base. The two brands will be marketed separately.

The deal comes as the airline industry tries to rebound two years after COVID-19 spurred governments to close borders and sent demand plummeting, leaving airlines with steep financial losses.

WestJet is Canada's second-largest airline, trailing Air Canada and the combination would provide a strong competitor to Air Canada.

**developing story

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