WestJet’s cumulative aircraft capital expenditures from 2014 to 2017 will be lower than previously expected due to the substitution of 15 existing Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft orders that were scheduled to deliver between December 2014 and 2018 to Boeing 737 MAX aircraft delivering in 2017 and beyond.
WestJet expects that a definitive purchase agreement will be entered into prior to September 30, 2013.
WestJet’s current fleet consists of 103 Boeing Next-Generation 737, and four Bombardier Q400 NextGen aircraft. With one of the youngest fleets in the airline industry, WestJet expects to continue its growth while controlling operating costs and providing an award-winning guest experience.
Caution regarding forward-looking information
Certain statements set forth in this news release, including, without limitation, information regarding our intent to purchase 65 737 MAX aircraft from Boeing and the expected entering into a definitive purchase agreement by September 30, 2013; the anticipated timing of the proposed 737 MAX deliveries to WestJet’s fleet; the expected benefits of the 737 MAX aircraft and the LEAP-1B engine to WestJet; our expected Boeing fleet size out to 2023; and our anticipated 2013 third-quarter and full-year capital expenditures; and our expected cumulative aircraft capital expenditures for 2014 to 2017 are forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. By their nature, forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond WestJet’s control. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based on WestJet’s current forecasts and long-term strategy, the proposed terms and conditions of the letter of intent, the specifications of the 737 MAX aircraft and the LEAP-1B engine, WestJet’s existing fleet order schedule along with other available implementation plans and agreements but may vary due to factors including, but not limited to, changes in guest demand, changes in fuel prices, delays in aircraft delivery, changes in aircraft specifications, general economic conditions, competitive environment, ability to effectively implement and maintain critical systems and other factors and risks described in WestJet’s public reports and filings which are available under WestJet’s profile at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned that undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements as actual results may vary materially from the forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statements contained in this news release represent WestJet’s expectations as of the date of this news release and are subject to change after such date. WestJet does not undertake to update, correct or revise any forward-looking statements as a result of any new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law.
About WestJet
WestJet is Canada’s most preferred airline, offering scheduled service to 87 destinations in North America, Central America and the Caribbean. Powered by an award-winning culture of care, WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. Recognized nationally as a top employer, WestJet now has more than 9,600 WestJetters across Canada. Operating a fleet of more than 100 Boeing Next-Generation 737 and Bombardier Q400 NextGen aircraft, WestJet strives to be one of the five most successful international airlines in the world. This year, WestJet launched its new regional airline, WestJet Encore.