Thursday, December 14, 2023
Today marks a significant milestone for WestJet as they announce the inclusion of Seoul’s Incheon International Airport (ICN) into their expansive network of global destinations. This move is a strategic step in bolstering Calgary’s role as a major intercontinental hub. Starting this summer, with thrice-weekly flights, passengers will experience the comforts of WestJet’s 787 Dreamliner on their journey between Calgary and Seoul. Pending regulatory approval, the airline is optimistic about opening bookings in early 2024 and is currently offering Canadians the chance to win a round-trip to Seoul, with notifications about ticket availability.
WestJet is proud to be the sole direct carrier connecting Alberta to South Korea, enhancing the 787’s global network from Calgary. This new route not only facilitates increased tourism and business exchanges but also promises to strengthen ties between Western Canada and Asia. According to John Weatherill, WestJet Group’s Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, the introduction of flights to Asia last year was highly successful, and they anticipate a similarly enthusiastic reception for the Seoul service.
Chris Dinsdale, CEO of the Calgary Airport Authority, expressed excitement about the new YYC-Incheon route, highlighting how it strengthens YYC’s position as an international gateway and offers travelers more opportunities to discover the diverse offerings of both regions.
To commemorate the launch of this new Asian destination, WestJet is organizing the ‘Feed Your Seoul’ sweepstakes. This contest allows participants to win a round-trip flight for two from any Canadian WestJet location to Seoul. Interested parties can register to receive updates on ticket sales once regulatory clearance is obtained. The sweepstakes is open from 8:00 a.m. MT on December 14, 2023, to 11:59 p.m. MT on January 4, 2023, to all legal Canadian residents, excluding Quebec, who are of legal age. Detailed rules are available at westjet.com/seoul.
Enhancing Alberta’s connectivity with Asia further, WestJet has also boosted its service from Calgary to Tokyo’s Narita International Airport, moving to daily flights this summer. This expansion aligns with WestJet’s commitment to fostering Pacific business relationships and offering unprecedented travel opportunities across Asia.
For updates on WestJet’s Seoul service launch and ticket sales, interested individuals can sign up through the WestJet ‘Feed Your Seoul’ sweepstakes.
Kirsten de Bruijn, WestJet Executive Vice-President of WestJet Cargo, highlighted the significant potential for WestJet Cargo with the Incheon connection, emphasizing the commitment to efficient cargo solutions that bridge businesses and markets globally.
The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade, and Economic Development, pointed out the flight expansion’s role in facilitating Alberta and Western Canada businesses’ expansion into the rapidly growing Indo-Pacific Region.
The Government of Alberta, represented by Honourable Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy, and Trade, expressed enthusiasm over the new Calgary-Seoul route. This development strengthens Alberta’s longstanding relationship with South Korea, offering economic and cultural benefits to both regions.
Hag Jae Lee, President and CEO of the Incheon International Airport Corporation, noted the importance of the new Incheon-Calgary route, especially as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of Korea-Canada diplomatic relations. This addition complements direct flights to Toronto and Vancouver, fostering travel and cultural exchange.
Brad Parry, President & CEO of Calgary Economic Development and CEO of the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund, commented on Calgary’s status as a globally connected city. He emphasized that the new Seoul route opens further avenues for business and cultural interactions between the two cities.
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