Following an August 5, 2024, storm system that impacted WestJet’s global hub in Calgary, the carrier is working diligently to return 16 hail-damaged aircraft, more than 10 percent of their fleet, back into service.
On Wednesday (August 14, 2024), WestJet announced an update on the progress of the repair of 16 aircraft that were damaged by hail from a storm system that impacted their Calgary hub on the evening of August 5, 2024. Comprehensive repairs of the aircraft, representing more than 10 percent of the WestJet fleet will require specialized equipment and materials, and is expected to take several weeks. In the interim, the carrier will continue to issue proactive cancellations for the foreseeable future.
In Wednesday’s announcement, WestJet Airlines’ President and Chief Operating Officer, Diederik Pen, said,
“We share in Canadians' frustration for the unpredictable nature of this summer travel season and are incredibly disappointed that the compounding impacts of last week’s hailstorm continue to disrupt the travel plans of our valued guests. Our dedicated Tech Ops teams have travelled from across our network to Calgary and Toronto where they are working around the clock to return our fleet to its full capacity. We thank everyone for their patience and support and are committed to doing everything in our power to minimize the impact on our guests and our people.”
WestJet Airlines’ President and Chief Operating Officer Diederik Pen Provides Update on Hail Damaged Aircraft Repairs - Courtesy WestJet
Currently, WestJet is canceling around 50 daily flights, and is proactively re-accommodating guests where possible. With the phased return to service of the impacted aircraft, the carrier anticipates fewer cancellations moving forward. To help reduce cancellations, WestJet has added additional WestJet Encore and partner flights by Canadian North. The company has also engaged Boeing and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) to secure additional resourcing to expedite aircraft repairs.
Source: WestJet/CNW
To our valued readers: As we prepare to celebrate our fifth anniversary on September 2, 2024, we have decided to enhance our visitor experience by eliminating targeted ads across our platform. In order to make up for lost revenue, we are transitioning to a reader supported model, without a paywall, annoying pop-ups, or a required subscription. We thank you for your generous support!