By Ian McConnell
Canadian airline WestJet has revealed plans to fly from Edinburgh Airport next year, offering a three-times-weekly service to Toronto.
The service is due to start on June 2 next year and will depart from Edinburgh to Toronto on Wednesday, Fridays and Sundays on a Boeing 737 Max.
Edinburgh Airport chief executive Gordon Dewar said: “We know there is huge interest in North America and Canada in particular, so welcoming a fantastic airline like WestJet to Edinburgh Airport is hugely exciting and we are glad to welcome them to Scotland’s capital.
Edinburgh Airport noted WestJet “will become the latest airline to arrive into the capital after Virgin Atlantic recently announced it will set up home here, and it will be the first time the Canadian carrier will operate flights from the capital”.
Mr Dewar said: “People are beginning to plan those family reunions and longed-for holidays so we hope new additions where possible will held to satisfy that demand, and the route will also present a great opportunity to strengthen business links.
“We look forward to welcoming WestJet to Edinburgh and showing off our fantastic capital city and everything else that Scotland has to offer.”
John Weatherill, WestJet’s chief commercial officer, said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming Edinburgh to our international network and strengthening travel and tourism ties between our two countries.
He added: “Whether travellers are looking to discover Edinburgh’s enchanting castles and cobbled streets or exploring the vibrance of Toronto and beyond, we’re committed to continuing to introduce new destinations and routes to our network.”
Scottish Minister for Transport Graeme Dey said: “I welcome WestJet’s commitment to Scotland and the launch of their new service to Toronto from Edinburgh Airport.
“It is encouraging to see airlines develop their connectivity with Scotland at this time. Canada is an important market for Scotland and I am sure this route will be welcomed by both business travellers and tourists in both our countries. I also welcome the use of WestJet’s latest-generation aircraft that will help minimise carbon emissions. I wish WestJet and Edinburgh Airport every success with this route.”
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