WestJet Canceling 50 Flights per Day Due to Hailstorm Damage

WestJet has released an update on its damaged aircraft, warning guests that the airline will continue to issue proactive cancellations “for the foreseeable future.”

On Aug. 5, a severe hailstorm hit Calgary, damaging 16 WestJet aircraft, amounting to 10% of its fleet. Following a comprehensive review of the damage, the airline’s team has determined the repairs and inspections will take several weeks to complete.

WestJet said it is currently canceling approximately 50 flights a day, and will continue to cancel flights throughout the month of August; however, the number of flight cancellations per day will reduce as repaired aircraft are phased back into service.

“Our dedicated Tech Ops teams have travelled from across our network to Calgary and Toronto where they are working around the clock to return our fleet to its full capacity. We thank everyone for their patience and support and are committed to doing everything in our power to minimize the impact on our guests and our people,” said Diederik Pen, president of WestJet Airlines and chief operating officer, WestJet Group.

By proactively canceling flights, the airline is aiming to minimize traveler disruption. WestJet Encore and Canadian North are adding additional sections to help accommodate guests whose travel plans have been impacted.

“We share in Canadians’ frustration for the unpredictable nature of this summer travel season and are incredibly disappointed that the compounding impacts of last week’s hailstorm continue to disrupt the travel plans of our valued guests,” said Pen.