¡ Qué Bueno! WestJet Announces YVR - Mexico City Service

New route further links YVR with a premier tourism and business hub

RICHMOND, BC, Oct. 3, 2017 /CNW/ - Today, WestJet announced the introduction of a new, three-times weekly service to Mexico City International Airport (MEX) from Vancouver International Airport (YVR). This non-stop service, which launches on March 15, 2018, will provide passengers travelling through YVR with more choice and will support YVR's vision to connect Asia with the Americas.

"This is excellent news—YVR greatly values our partner WestJet and their efforts to link our airport with key destinations around the world," said Craig Richmond, President & CEO of Vancouver Airport Authority. "Mexico City is rich in experiences, offering incredible tourism options and a broad range of business opportunities. It's also one of Latin America's key connecting hubs—providing passengers with access to amazing destinations. We are excited to work with WestJet to ensure this new route is a big success."

The service will further drive passenger growth in this key region, a strategic priority for YVR following the Canadian government's recent removal of the visa requirements for Mexican visitors to Canada. Latin America was the leading market for YVR in the first half of 2017, increasing 25 per cent over the same period in 2016. YVR anticipates this market to continue its strong growth with the help of WestJet and our other partners. 

"We are proud of our investments in Vancouver International Airport as we continue to grow our west coast hub," said Ed Sims, WestJet Executive Vice-President Commercial. "These flights provide choice and competition for Canada's business and leisure travellers and will also enable Mexican visitors an affordable option to discover our country and Mexican businesses to increase commercial ties."

Through annual operations and tourism, the new service will generate $6.3 million in total economic output and will contribute $3.3 million in Gross Domestic Product. It will also provide opportunities for B.C. businesses to reach new customers, suppliers and investors throughout Mexico and Latin America.

ABOUT VANCOUVER AIRPORT AUTHORITY

Vancouver Airport Authority is a community-based, not-for-profit organization that manages Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Canada's second busiest airport, YVR served 22.3 million passengers in 2016. Fifty-five airlines serve YVR, connecting people and businesses to more than 125 non-stop destinations worldwide. In 2016, YVR received CAPA Centre for Aviation's prestigious Airport of the Year Award and was voted Best Airport in North America for the eighth consecutive year in the Skytrax World Airport Awards in 2017. Vancouver Airport Authority is a dedicated community partner and in 2016 donated more than $1,000,000 to local organizations. We are committed to creating an airport that British Columbia can be proud of: a premier global gateway, local economic generator and community contributor.

SOURCE Vancouver Airport Authority

YVR Media Relations, [email protected], 604-880-9815, @yvrairport