WestJet expands KLM deal

WestJet is extending its reach in Europe, inking an expanded agreement with KLM that boosts access to destinations on either side of the Atlantic, while filling more seats on Canadian routes.

It's the latest code-share ticketing deal for the Calgary-based carrier, giving it entry to additional international routes its planes can't fly.

Passengers booking flights to or from Canada through KLM will fly WestJet beyond the Amsterdam-based airline's Canadian hubs, using one ticket as though they were travelling on just one airline.

"It gives people from Canada a chance to go over to Europe, using WestJet as part of that," says Karl Moore, an associate professor at McGill University's Desautels Faculty of Management. "So people can fly from the other (Canadian) cities to the gateway cities, and then on KLM.

"(WestJet) can compete a bit more effectively with Air Canada and its Star Alliance partnership. It opens up a lot of possibilities."

For now, passengers will access tickets from the KLM site, not WestJet's. KLM, which will launch the first flights on Sept. 26, started selling tickets a week ago.

Hugh Dunleavy, WestJet's executive vice-president, strategy and planning, says the agreement is very similar to the one in place with Cathay Pacific and will push westJet's flights higher up travel agent's displays because of the connection.

Read full article: Calgary Herald, September 17, 2011