WestJet grounds its dedicated cargo operations

WestJet has announced that its cargo-dedicated freighter operations will no longer be part of the company’s core strategy.

Public relations for WestJet Cargo told Inside Logistics that the company still has two 737-800 Boeing converted freighters in service, while two more are in storage. WestJet is exploring various options for the aircraft.

“WestJet Cargo’s focus remains on optimizing WestJet’s belly capacity of its entire passenger fleet, which continues to provide a reliable and sustainable solution in global airfreight,” WestJet’s Cargo’s PR said in a statement.

In addition to the announcement, Kirsten de Bruijn, executive vice-president of WestJet Cargo, will step down from her position and leave the company this June.

“I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Kirsten de Bruijn, WestJet’s executive vice-president Cargo,” WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech wrote on social media recently. “We have seen significant growth and success in our cargo business thanks to Kirsten’s expertise and leadership. She was instrumental in building and growing a high-performing cargo organization capable of succeeding within a rapidly evolving market. With the team well established, Kirsten has notified us of her intention to leave WestJet come June. On behalf of the entire WestJet team, we thank Kirsten for her tremendous contributions.”

WestJet Cargos said de Bruijn’s leadership has been instrumental in the cargo division’s growth, and it remains fully operational and committed to meeting its customers’ needs.

WestJet Cargo first took off in April 2023.