WINNIPEG — Sunwing Airlines will increase its flying schedule from Winnipeg by adding direct flights to Grand Bahama this winter and further expanding its operation from the Winnipeg Richardson International Airport by opening a seasonal base.

The opening of this base will result in recruitment of over 60 crew members from within the local community. The move illustrates Sunwing’s continuous growth and success in the Winnipeg market, said the carrier.

“We are very committed to the ongoing development of our Winnipeg program,” said Mark Williams, President of Sunwing Airlines. “Due to the overwhelming success Sunwing has experienced in the Winnipeg market, we have decided to further expand our Winnipeg operations and are very excited about the upcoming season.”

Sunwing has been operating from Winnipeg since 2006 when it introduced direct flights to Cancun. Today, the airline takes Winnipeg travellers to several popular vacation hotspots in Cuba, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Mexico and now Grand Bahama starting this winter.

“When airlines do well in our market it’s a win-win situation,” said Barry Rempel, President & CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority. “Sunwing’s flight to Grand Bahama is a great addition to our lineup of winter getaway destinations.”

Sunwing Airlines will offer weekly flights to Grand Bahama starting Jan. 18, 2014 until the end of March providing Winnipeg residents with an opportunity to experience Grand Bahama’s white sand beaches and turquoise waters. A one-week all-inclusive vacation to Grand Bahama starts from $1,395 plus $350 taxes per person to Memories Grand Bahama, departing on Feb. 22 or March 1, 2014.