WestJet Lands in Cardiff

WestJet launched its new route to Wales last week with fanfare that included a water cannon and choral welcome upon landing in Cardiff. The Toronto Pearson (YYZ) to Cardiff (CWL) flight will operate four times a week aboard WestJet’s 737-8 MAX during the summer season.

It’s part of WestJet’s strategy to win ground in leisure travel markets with moderate but consistent traffic to second cities aboard its narrow body craft. The smaller craft travelling to smaller airports means lower operating costs while allowing targeted seasonal demand.

Water cannon salute at Cardiff airport (Photo Credit: Cardiff Airport/Facebook)

It’s the first time in two decades that a direct flight has operated between Canada and Wales. The flight  will allow Welsh passengers to connect easily to other North American destinations through Pearson. Canadians flying transatlantically will be able to avoid the busyness of London airports and land directly in Cardiff to start their U.K. vacation.

It's a win for the Cardiff airport, which has limited long-haul routes, despite serving a catchment that includes Western England and South Wales.

 

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