"We are delighted to connect with the Sydney community and celebrate WestJet's return to Cape Breton. Engaging in meaningful conversations with local leaders and businesses helps us continuously improve as an airline, and we’re excited about the two-way tourism opportunities that our new direct service between Sydney and Calgary will bring this summer,” said Christina Iversen, Head of External Affairs, WestJet. “The warm welcome we received was truly heartening, and we’re proud to strengthen our ties with the community through productive discussions about enhancing air access in the region."
This service marks a significant step forward for both business and leisure travel, providing Cape Bretoners with a cost effective, seamless connection to and from Western Canada while enhancing tourism and economic opportunities for the region.
“What became clear today is that our community and our partners are just as excited as we are to welcome WestJet’s new direct service to Calgary, a significant milestone for Cape Breton," said Myles Tuttle, CEO of the Sydney Airport Authority. "This route enhances our connectivity, creating new opportunities for tourism, business growth, and investment in Cape Breton. Most importantly, it will allow more Cape Bretoners to spend valuable time with their families rather than enduring lengthy travel for work”
Tuttle continues, “We appreciate WestJet’s commitment to our region and the opportunities this new service brings. They recognize that air access is an important issue for Atlantic Canada. As a world-class tourism destination, we look forward to welcoming travelers from Western Canada and beyond to showcase the unparalleled beauty and hospitality of our Island."
Beginning June 10th, 2025 until October 24th, 2025 WestJet will operate on Tuesday and Saturday with service to/from the McCurdy Sydney Airport and Calgary International Airport.
“WestJet’s new direct flight from Calgary to Cape Breton Island is a game-changer for our tourism industry. Improved air access is one of the most critical factors in growing our visitor economy, and this new route makes it easier than ever for travellers from Western Canada and beyond to experience the world-class beauty, culture and hospitality of Cape Breton Island,” said Terry Smith, CEO of Destination Cape Breton.
“Expanding air routes and flight connectivity are essential to unlocking new economic opportunities for Unama’ki – Cape Breton,” said Tyler Mattheis, President & CEO of the Cape Breton Partnership, Unama’ki – Cape Breton’s private sector-led economic development organization. “A diversity of options for regularly scheduled air travel strengthens our local businesses, attracts investment, and supports key industries such as tourism, seafood and seafood processing, post-secondary education, manufacturing and the growing film industry. By improving connectivity, we are ensuring our region remains competitive, accessible, and positioned for long-term growth.”