WestJet launched the first-ever scheduled connection between Calgary and Rome with the departure of WestJet flight 32 from YYC on Saturday evening.
Operated on the airline's 320-seat 787 Dreamliner, WestJet says the flight marked a major milestone in the recovery of Alberta's travel and tourism industry. The route was initially scheduled to debut in May 2020, but postponed due to the pandemic.
"The launch of our highly anticipated Calgary-Rome service is an incredible milestone for both WestJet and our guests, as we've been looking forward to this moment, for more than two years," said Angela Avery, EVP External Affairs.
"With its rich history and culture, it is no surprise that our guests are eager to visit Rome. We are thrilled to provide Western Canadians with increased connectivity to this incredible city. We are also excited to bring guests from Rome to visit Canada and assist with the recovery of Canada's vital tourism industry."
The Honourable Rajan Sawhney, Alberta's Minister of Transportation and Bob Sartor, President and CEO, YYC Calgary Airport Authority were on hand to commemorated the first flight.
WestJet says its new service to and from Rome rounds out the airline's enhanced investments in Alberta's transatlantic connectivity and is providing the province with a 43% increase in WestJet's service to Europe compared to 2019.
With five European destinations to explore, Western Canadians and northwestern based Americans can now seamlessly connect to Rome, Paris, Dublin and both London-Heathrow and Gatwick from WestJet's Calgary hub.
"WestJet continues to be a true Alberta success story. This new step, expanding its international offerings with a direct flight to Rome will create new opportunities for Albertans to see the world," said Jason Kenney, Premier of Alberta.
"WestJet's continued growth is another sign of Alberta's recovery, as our tourism industry gets back on its feet after two tough years."
WestJet's service to Rome will operate during peak season up to three-times weekly.
Topics From This Article to Explore
