A new 787 Dreamliner maintenance hangar has been opened by WestJet at its hub at Calgary International Airport.
"Today marks another significant step in WestJet's journey as a global network carrier," said Ed Sims, WestJet President and CEO. "This state-of-the-art facility provides the perfect environment for our highly skilled aviation maintenance engineering teams to continue to ensure the safety and comfort of our 25 million annual guests."
WestJet's $50 million investment in the 125,000-square-foot hangar is in addition to the airline's announcement that it will be the first Canadian airline to base its Dreamliner aircraft out of YYC Calgary International Airport.
The first three 787 Dreamliner aircraft launch from Calgary on non-stop routes to London, Paris and Dublin on April 28, May 17 and June 1 respectively.
WestJet's hangar accommodates one 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft or up to four 737 aircraft. It increases the airline's campus size to 500,000 square feet. The hangar allows for indoor maintenance on the airline's Dreamliner aircraft and can accommodate up to 130 members of the WestJet technical operations teams with workspace and tools to maintain the reliability and safety of WestJet's fleet.
"The opening of this hangar today is another example of how our biggest airline partner, WestJet and the Calgary Airport Authority are working hand-in-hand for the good of the city," said Bob Sartor, The Calgary Airport Authority President and CEO. "WestJet's investment in its Calgary hub has a direct impact on jobs, the economy and all of the opportunities that come with vital air service connecting travellers to other economies and markets."