by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 8:10 AM ET, Tue September 23, 2025
More than 100 participants came together in Edmonton to pull a 67,000-pound WestJet Q400 aircraft, raising CAD$30,000 to support Canadians who need to travel for medical care far from home.
The event, called Haul for Hope, was hosted for the second consecutive year by WestJet in partnership with Hope Air. Teams of participants worked together to haul the aircraft.
“WestJet is proud to partner with Hope Air for the second consecutive year to host today’s Haul for Hope Event in Edmonton, one of our key focus cities,” said Jared Mikoch-Gerke, WestJet director of Alliances and Airport Affairs.
“The overwhelming turnout at today’s event is a testament to the transformative impact of WestJet’s partnership with Hope Air and incredible community support that reinforces our shared commitment to supporting Canadians as they travel to receive vital medical care.”
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Since 2007, WestJet and Hope Air have provided more than 24,000 flights to Canadian families in need of medical care. The airline has also helped raise funds for Hope Air through the gift of flight, extending the reach of the organization’s services.
Edmonton International Airport (YEG) also played a central role in the day’s efforts.
“We are delighted to once again host Haul for Hope at YEG, in partnership with WestJet and Hope Air,” said Myron Keehn, president and CEO of YEG.
“Our airport plays a vital role in ensuring patients needing medical care can seamlessly access health services across the country. Today’s event brought our community together to open skies for hope, health and a lifeline to medical care, no matter how far from home they must travel.”
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