CALGARY — The WestJet Group has launched its first flight to Seoul from its global hub in Calgary, establishing a direct link between Alberta and South Korea.

The departure of WS86 underscores the airline’s commitment to expanding its 787 global hub at YYC Calgary International Airport. The nearly sold-out inaugural flight marks the first of 140 flights between Calgary and Seoul this summer.

“Canada and South Korea’s decades-long history in mutual support, shared values, and bilateral trade initiatives have set the stage for WestJet’s service to Seoul, marking a significant milestone in strengthening cultural exchange and economic ties between the two nations,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “Bringing an authentic, reliable and essential service offering to life was possible due to the collaboration and advocacy of our dedicated WestJetters, countless government agencies and stakeholders passionate about bringing our cultures closer together.”

Weatherill added that WestJet has “gone above and beyond to ensure all guests have an elevated experience onboard including introducing the option of western and Korean inflight meals, Korean entertainment options and onboard Korean announcements.”

WestJet service to Seoul will operate on the airline’s 787 Dreamliner three times per week through Oct. 27, and will return in Spring 2025.

Guests will also have access to six additional cities across four Asian countries from Incheon International Airport (ICN) through WestJet’s codeshare agreement with Korean Airlines.

WestJet’s nonstop flight to Seoul is one of many transoceanic service offerings available this summer. Guests travelling out of WestJet’s hub in Calgary can also connect to Tokyo and seven European destinations as part of the airline’s robust international offerings. Earlier this month, WestJet also revealed plans to transition its seasonal service between Calgary and Tokyo to year-round.

“I’M DELIGHTED BY THE EXPANSION”

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) marked WestJet’s historic launch of its new flights linking Calgary and Seoul with a special event in Calgary.

The evening featured Korean cuisine, traditional dance and drum performances, and highlighted Korea’s many attractions.

Jane Kim, Director of Korea Tourism Organization, Toronto, said: “I’m delighted by the expansion of opportunities for Canadians traveling to Korea this year with the introduction of WestJet’s Calgary-Incheon route. This new route has great significance in 2024, which has been designated as the Year of Korea-Canada Cultural Exchange. 2024 also marks Visit Korea Year as officially declared by the Korean government. Alongside the launch of the Calgary-Incheon route, I hope there is more cultural exchange between Canada and Korea, and I look forward to the expansion and establishment of the Calgary-Incheon route as regular service in the future.”

To celebrate the inaugural flight, all passengers received a special goodie bag from the KTO, containing traditional Korean snacks like Yakgwa, Korean tea, a T-Money Card (public transit card), and other promotional items. A gate ceremony on May 17 featured a Korean traditional drum performance.

The Korean government has declared 2023-2024 as Visit Korea Year. The two-year activation includes special events, travel packages, and promotional campaigns using K-culture to boost visitors to the country.