WestJet unveiled its Toronto Blue Jays-themed Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.
WestJet tail number 386 was revealed during an event at the airline's hangar at Toronto Pearson International Airport. Nearly 1,000 WestJet employees, Toronto Blue Jays reps and community members attended the celebration, which also featured appearances by former Blue Jays players Edwin Encarnación and Pat Borders, along with the team's mascot, ACE.
The aircraft is scheduled to operate its first flight from Toronto Pearson on June 24.
"Our renewed partnership with the Toronto Blue Jays represents a shared commitment to bringing Canadians closer together through meaningful, memorable moments," said Samantha Taylor, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Experience Officer.
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"Together, we are creating opportunities to connect fans to the game they love while celebrating the spirit of community that unites us across the country. Our co-branded aircraft is a bold and visible symbol of that connection, proudly showcasing our partnership from coast-to-coast-to-coast and reinforcing our shared dedication to delivering exceptional experiences for Canadians."
The livery incorporates the Blue Jays' colours and a design intended to reflect both an aircraft taking off and a baseball in flight.
WestJet welcomes Toronto Blue Jays’ Ernie Clement as new brand ambassador (Photo Credit: WestJet)
"This partnership with the Toronto Blue Jays is rooted in uniting Canadians through shared experiences, a deep love of the game and building connections that go beyond the field," said Steve McClelland, Vice President, Loyalty and Strategic Partnerships, WestJet.
The partnership between WestJet and the Toronto Blue Jays was originally established in 2012. Its renewal comes during milestone years for both organizations, with the Blue Jays celebrating their 50th season and WestJet marking 30 years of operations.
As part of the renewed agreement, WestJet has also named Blue Jays infielder Ernie Clement as its newest player ambassador.
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"Our partnership with WestJet has been instrumental in bringing Blue Jays baseball to fans across Canada," said Mark Ditmars, Vice President, Partnerships, Toronto Blue Jays.
"As we celebrate our 50th season, this renewed commitment – and the unveiling of this co-branded aircraft – reflects our share values of teamwork and building community."
According to WestJet, the aircraft will operate throughout WestJet's network, bringing the Blue Jays branding to destinations across Canada and beyond.
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