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WestJet Approves Lease of Two Additional Aircraft in 2007

CALGARY, ALBERTA–(CCNMatthews – Jan. 24, 2006) – WestJet today announced the approval of its Board of Directors to lease two Boeing Next-Generation 737-700 aircraft from International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC). The aircraft are scheduled to be delivered in March and April of 2007, and their lease term is for eight years.

"WestJet is pleased to secure two aircraft from ILFC in order to continue our expansion plans throughout 2007," said Sandy Campbell, WestJet's Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer. "This is the first time we've leased aircraft from ILFC, and this new relationship provides us with another opportunity to continue offering guests the first-rate Boeing Next-Generation aircraft they have come to expect from WestJet."

WestJet will accept delivery of 12 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft in 2006. With the addition of these two leased aircraft, the airline will accept six Next-Generation 737 aircraft deliveries in 2007. As previously announced, WestJet will also accept delivery of three 737-700s in 2008.

ILFC is the international market leader in the leasing and remarketing of advanced technology commercial jet aircraft to airlines around the world. ILFC owns a portfolio valued at more than $40 billion, consisting of nearly 800 jet aircraft.

WestJet is Canada's leading low-fare airline offering scheduled service throughout its 34-city North American network. Named Canada's most respected corporation for customer service in 2005, WestJet pioneered low-cost high-value flying in Canada. With increased legroom and leather seats on its modern fleet of Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft, and live seatback television provided by Bell ExpressVu on the majority of its fleet, WestJet strives to be the number one choice for travellers.