WestJet Airlines planning new seat configuration, expand routes

Canada’s leading carrier WestJet Airlines is planning expansion. Now, more WestJet Airlines flights will be available to the customers when the airline boost its fleet and fly to new routes.

WestJet Airlines, which operates out of its main hub at Calgary, recently announced that it is planning to buy a fleet of Bombardier Q400s for its new short-haul carrier. The airline is also likely to take a decision in the coming months on a new seat configuration for its larger Boeing 737-800s, including the possibility of roomier premium seats and a higher-density economy class.

Earlier this year, the airline had revealed its plans to launch a short-haul carrier, but was in a fix whether to choose Bombardier Q400s or another European-built turboprop, the ATR 72-600. However, the airline finally chose Bombardier Q400s to include in its fleet.

WestJet Airlines said that it hope to put in place its regional carrier schedule by the end of 2012 allowing it to expand into markets where it is unable to serve competitively with its Boeing 737s.

The airline also reported a record Q1 2012 net income of $68.3 million, or 49 cents a share, up 42 percent from the $48.2 million, or 34 cents a share, it earned during the same period in 2011.