The province of Manitoba witnesses a significant boost in international connectivity as WestJet launches a non-stop service between Winnipeg (YWG) and Atlanta (ATL). This new service marks the carrier’s third route to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) from Canada.
This non-stop connection has been realized with the joint efforts of the Winnipeg Airport Authority, WestJet, Economic Development Winnipeg, and the Government of Manitoba. To enhance air connectivity, the province has allocated $5 million to support this new route.
The initiation of this service was celebrated at Price Industries. Distinguished guests included Heather Stefanson, Premier of Manitoba; Nick Hays, Winnipeg Airports Authority CEO; Scott Gillingham, Winnipeg Mayor; and Dayna Spiring, Economic Development Winnipeg CEO.
John Weatherill, WestJet’s chief commercial officer, commented, “WestJet, being the only airline providing direct connectivity between Winnipeg and Atlanta, aims to stimulate business and leisure travel, providing broader access from Winnipeg to the world. This demonstrates our commitment to propelling the economic prosperity of communities we serve.”
By September, WestJet anticipates offering 6,612 weekly seats between Canada and Atlanta (ATL), with services extending from Calgary (YYC), Vancouver (YVR), and Winnipeg (YWG) to ATL.
Winnipeg-Atlanta Flight Schedule
Commencing September 6, 2023:
- WS 1360: Winnipeg to Atlanta – YWG 09:00 to ATL 13:09, every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.
- WS 1361: Atlanta to Winnipeg – ATL 14:00 to YWG 16:20, every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.
The route will be serviced by the Boeing 737-8 and Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, both equipped with 174 seats across two classes. Promotional fares start at $156 for round trips.
WestJet’s international network in Winnipeg (YWG) provides year-round service to Atlanta (ATL), Las Vegas (LAS), Los Angeles (LAX), and seasonal routes to several popular destinations.
WestJet and Delta Collaboration
Customers traveling beyond Atlanta (ATL) can access an extensive network, thanks to the partnership between WestJet and Delta Air Lines. This partnership enables codeshare flights to over 50 connecting destinations from a single stopover from Winnipeg (YWG). Also, customers have the option to earn and redeem miles in both airlines’ frequent flyer programs.
WestJet’s collaboration with Delta also provides the convenience of a one-way ticket purchase, check-in for all flights on the initial departure, tagged baggage to the final destination, and lounge access for select guests.
The introduction of the Winnipeg (YWG) – Atlanta (ATL) route follows the announcement of nonstop service between Winnipeg and Los Angeles (LAX) less than a year ago. WestJet has witnessed robust demand in the cross-border market since the inauguration of the YWG – LAX route in October 2022.
The Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL), one of the globe’s leading air travel “megahubs,” operates more than 1,000 daily flights to over 210 destinations. This new service not only establishes a multitude of connections but also brings added travel benefits for consumers.
Colin Ferguson, CEO of Travel Manitoba, emphasized the importance of direct international flights to Winnipeg. He said, “This move aligns with our goal of doubling tourism spending by 2030. The new Atlanta route provides an easier access to our most significant international market, inviting visitors to experience our acclaimed fishing or witness the northern lights and polar bears in Churchill.”
In conclusion, WestJet‘s new service between Winnipeg and Atlanta is a significant step toward boosting Manitoba’s international connectivity, promising economic benefits for the province, and providing travelers with more flexibility and choice.
