A New Canadian Airline that Launched By Offering Free Tickets!
WestJet Airlines has entered the ultra low-cost market with Swoop. It began selling tickets yesterday, with the first 2,000 lucky customers getting them for free. Well, not really free, but free plus taxes and fees. Those are already sold out but you can still buy tickets starting at just $39 each way, directly on flyswoop.com.
Swoop will remain a distinct operation from WestJet Airline with separate employees and check-in counters at airports. It will begin flying passengers on June 20. Average Swoop fares will be 30 percent lower than WestJet’s regular economy fare.
The new ultra low-cost will offer six weekly flights from Hamilton to Abbotsford, Edmonton, Winnipeg and Halifax; six weekly flights from Abbotsford to Hamilton; and three daily flights between Abbotsford and Edmonton. More Canadian, US and Mexican cities are expected to added later on.
Canadian carriers have long struggled to compete with their U.S. rivals on ticket prices because Canada charges significantly higher fees and taxes on air travel.
As it’s the case with all ultra low-cost carriers, any extras will cost you. Fares include a seat and one personal item. Ancillary fees and services, including seat selection, seat upgrades, carry-on and checked baggage, food & beverage service and in-flight entertainment are not included.
