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Airline also pleased with YVR incentive program
CALGARY, Sept. 20 /CNW/ - WestJet today commented on Premier Campbell's announcement that the B.C. government will be introducing legislation to eliminate the provincial aviation fuel tax for transborder and international flights and the Vancouver Airport Authority announcement of a five year incentive program.
Gregg Saretsky, WestJet President and CEO said, "We are pleased with the progressive approach taken by the B.C. government and thank Premier Gordon Campbell for his vision and the positive impact this news will have on making British Columbia more competitive for international and transborder flights. I commend the government for taking action to improve the competitiveness of B.C.'s aviation industry within the international market.
"I would also like to thank Larry Berg, President and CEO of the Vancouver Airport Authority for their announcement of a 5-year airline incentive program that will allow air carriers to add capacity to YVR without incurring additional landing and terminal fees. These combined announcements demonstrate a great collaboration between government and airport authorities."
WestJet's international presence in British Columbia has grown substantially and this news ensures that with firm orders for an additional 45 aircraft over the next seven years, this growth will continue.
"It is our belief that this news will create jobs and add millions of dollars of economic activity to the province," concluded Mr. Saretsky. "It is these types of initiatives we encourage other jurisdictions across the country to follow so that all of Canada's aviation hubs will become more competitive internationally."
About WestJet
WestJet is Canada's preferred airline, offering scheduled service throughout its 71-city North American and Caribbean network. Inducted into Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures Hall of Fame and named one of Canada's best employers, WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. WestJet offers increased legroom, leather seats and live seatback television provided by Bell TV on its modern fleet of 90 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. With future confirmed deliveries for an additional 45 aircraft through 2017, WestJet strives to be one of the five most successful international airlines in the world.
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