25 / 04 / 2023

By Megan Ramsay

One of three B737-800BCF aircraft now in service with WestJet Cargo and the GTA Group

WestJet Cargo and aviation services provider GTA Group inaugurated services with three Boeing 737-800Boeing Converted Freighters in Toronto on April 20, 2023 and in Halifax on April 21, 2023 following their certification in March.

The dedicated freighters will fly between Halifax, Calgary, Los Angeles, Miami, Toronto and Vancouver and will be integrated with WestJet’s existing network alongside its existing fleet of over 100 B737 aircraft.

Each of the B737-800BCFs has a payload of 23 tons. Their deployment will open up trade lanes between Canada and the Caribbean, Europe, Japan and the US, a statement said.

Besides perishables, e-commerce and live animals, the converted planes are expected to carry oversized items and unitised e-commerce containers.

“Our incredibly talented and creative team at WestJet Cargo is eager to satisfy the demand of Canada’s underserved air cargo market, by bringing competitive cost advantages, increased choice, reliable on-time performance and exemplary customer service. Our inauguration signifies a green light to do just that, as we strive to meet the needs of Canada’s expanding cargo market,” said Kirsten de Bruijn, WestJet executive vice president, cargo.

De Bruijn said that the carrier hopes to expand flights into Latin America after it adds its fourth B737, which is currently undergoing modification in Costa Rica.