CALGARY — WestJet’s much talked about ultra-low-cost airline (ULCC) finally has a name, one that “denotes exactly what we plan to do,” said Bob Cummings, WestJet Executive Vice-President, Strategy.

The new ULCC, which will begin selling flights in early 2018, will be named Swoop, “a powerful verb that demonstrates we plan to swoop in to the Canadian market with a new business model that will provide lower fares and greater opportunity for more Canadians to travel,” added Cummings.

Cummings, who’s credited as the executive member responsible for the launch of the ULCC, also noted that when it came time to look for Swoop’s headquarters, Calgary quickly rose to the top of the list.

“The city offers Swoop the opportunity to save costs through shared services with WestJet’s corporate head office, the availability of existing infrastructure, and talented, experienced WestJetters to draw from,” he said. “We are confident that these qualities will support our ultra-low-cost operations and our guests well in the future.”

An exact location in Calgary will be announced at a later date. Deron Bilous, Alberta Minister of Economic Development, hailed the province for being “the best place to invest and do business.” He added, “We created Invest Alberta to make it easier for companies like Swoop to set up and expand here. Together we are creating new jobs and diversifying our economy.”

Travellers can sign up at FlySwoop.com to receive details on job opportunities, launch plans and to learn more about Canada’s newest airline.