WestJet will soon shut down its budget subsidiary, Swoop, the airline announced recently. All the operations of Swoop will be folded into WestJet.
The merger into WestJet’s operations is expected to be completed by October 28, till then Swoop will operate its existing network. The employees will move to WestJet once the merger is completed
The move comes as the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) announced its members had ratified their recent pact with the airline, one that brings in 24% raises over four years, and puts Swoop pilots on a similar footing as WestJet's in terms of seniority and compensation issues.
“The WestJet Group is confident in the outcome of this negotiated decision and the path forward to integrate Swoop into WestJet’s operations,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive, WestJet. “This integration will enhance our ability to serve a broader spectrum of guests. Instead of only 16 aircraft serving the ultra-low-cost market, each aircraft, in our 180-strong fleet, will offer ultra-affordable travel options through to a premium inflight experience.”
"As negotiated in the collective agreement, the WestJet Group will now begin integration efforts of its ultra-low-cost airline, Swoop," the airline said.
Swoop was launched nearly five years ago, in June 2018.