 March 4, 2009, Calgary- WestJet announced February traffic results
with a load factor of 82.6 per cent. Revenue passenger miles (RPM) increased
5.5 per cent year over year and capacity, measured in available seat miles
(ASM), grew 5.7 per cent over the same period.
"Our strong load factor is, in part, a reflection of our strong growth
into Mexico and the Caribbean," commented Sean Durfy, WestJet President and
CEO. "Our international expansion and continued focus on transborder routes
are key to driving the success of our strategic plan. We have become the
preferred choice of travellers to the sun destinations we serve."
Sean Durfy noted, "The pricing environment has not improved and we are
anticipating a decline in year-over-year first quarter revenue per available
seat mile (RASM) of 10 to 12 per cent. This decline reflects current economic
challenges, the aggressive competitive pricing we have faced and the shift of
Easter to the second quarter in 2009. We are seeing cost relief, due primarily
to declines in fuel costs, that is helping to partially offset the decline in
RASM."
February 2009 traffic results
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February 2009 February 2008 Change
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Load factor 82.6% 82.8% (0.2 pts.)
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ASMs (billions) 1.350 1.277 5.7%
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RPMs (billions) 1.116 1.058 5.5%
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Year-to-date 2009 Year-to-date 2008 Change
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Load factor 79.6% 79.4% 0.2 pts.
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ASMs (billions) 2.835 2.634 7.6%
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RPMs (billions) 2.256 2.092 7.8%
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Sean Durfy added, "Despite uncertain economic times and some of the worst
winter weather in years, WestJetters continue to deliver amazing results. Our
team is dedicated to delivering a world-class guest experience. Thanks to
their efforts and our strong business model, I have no doubt we will continue
to be a top-performing airline in North America and around the world."
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