WestJet Cargo and the GTA Group celebrated the inauguration of their first of three Boeing 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCFs) in Toronto on Thursday (April 20th). The ribbon-cutting event was held at WestJet’s Toronto hangar.
On Thursday (April 20, 2021), WestJet Cargo and GTA Group celebrated the inauguration of their first of three Boeing 737-800BCFs (Boeing Converted Freighters) at a ribbon-cutting ceremony at their Toronto hangar. The event marks the launch of WestJet Cargo and the GTA Group’s dedicated freighter service that will accommodate the large-scale cargo needs of businesses, freight forwarders, shippers and individual customers across North America. The inauguration of two more Boeing 737-800BCFs will follow at events in Halifax and Vancouver.
In Thursday’s announcement, WestJet Cargo’s Executive Vice President, Kirsten de Brujin, said,
“We are thrilled to be celebrating this long-awaited milestone in Toronto, a core hub for WestJet Cargo and home of the GTA Group. As Canada's largest global hub, Toronto is a vital destination for our dedicated freighter operation that will enable WestJet Cargo to plug into a vast network of cargo entering the country and allow us to seamlessly execute the distribution of this cargo to its final destination across Canada.
“Our incredibly talented team at WestJet Cargo is eager to disrupt Canada’s underserved air cargo market, by bringing competitive cost advantages, increased choice, reliable on-time performance and exemplary customer service. Today's celebration signifies a green light to do just that, as we strive to meet the needs of Canada's expanding cargo market.
“It is an honour to celebrate this accomplishment amongst our key partners and stakeholders, each of whom played an important role in making today happen. The take-off of our dedicated freighters is a significant moment for Canada and the communities we serve, as we strengthen our ability to expand upon the essential products we carry across and beyond the country.”
Also commenting on the milestone occasion, GTA Group’s Chairman Mario (Mauro) D’Urso, said,
“Today is an exciting day for the GTA Group as we celebrate and welcome this highly anticipated moment in Toronto. This joint venture with WestJet Cargo will without a doubt, strengthen our position to meet the needs of the rapidly growing Canadian cargo market. The capacity of the four dedicated freighters, will bring customers new competitive options by providing more air freight capacity to cargo customers who depend on reliable and on-time performance. We are thrilled to see these freighters take flight as we strive to provide exceptional service to all of our customers and their business needs.”
Seamlessly integrating with WestJet Cargo’s existing operations, the dedicated freighters will initially serve Calgary, Halifax, Toronto, Vancouver, Los Angeles and Miami. The quick to load and fly Boeing 737-800BCFs are powered by CFM56-7B engines, and will deliver greater fuel efficiency, flexibility and frequencies from April 22, 2023. WestJet Cargo’s dedicated freighter routes will complement the belly-hold capacity of WestJet’s fleet, leveraging the airline’s extensive network.
Source: WestJet/CNW