WestJet launches new direct flights connecting Calgary and Seoul

“Canada and South Korea's decades-long history of mutual support, shared values ​​and bilateral trade initiatives have made WestJet's service to Seoul a milestone in the strengthening of cultural exchange and economic ties between the two countries,” said John Weatherill. , WestJet Group Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. “Bringing a true, reliable and meaningful service offering to life is made possible by the cooperation and advocacy of our dedicated WestJetters, countless government agencies and stakeholders who are passionate about bringing our cultures together.”

Weatherill added that WestJet “goes above and beyond to ensure all guests have a superior onboard experience, including the introduction of Western and Korean in-flight meals, Korean entertainment options and Korean onboard announcements.”

WestJet service to Seoul will operate three times weekly on the 787 Dreamliner until October 27 and return in spring 2025.

Guests can also access six additional cities in four Asian countries from Incheon International Airport (ICN) through WestJet's codeshare agreement with Korean Airlines.

WestJet's nonstop service to Seoul is one of the many transoceanic service offers available this summer. Guests departing from WestJet's Calgary hub can connect to Tokyo and seven European destinations as part of the airline's robust international offerings. Earlier this month, WestJet also revealed plans to switch its seasonal service between Calgary and Tokyo to year-round.

“I'M EXCITED TO EXPAND”

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) celebrated the historic launch of WestJet's new flights connecting Calgary and Seoul with a special event in Calgary.

The evening featured Korean food, traditional dance and drum performances, and highlighted many of Korea's attractions.

Jane Kim, director of the Korea Tourism Organization in Toronto, said, “I am excited about the expansion of options for Canadians visiting Korea with the introduction of WestJet's Calgary-Incheon route this year. This new direction is of great significance with 2024 being designated as the Korea-Canada Year of Cultural Exchange. The year 2024 has also been officially declared by the Korean government as the Year of Visiting Korea. In addition to launching the Calgary-Incheon route, I hope that there will be more cultural exchange between Canada and Korea, and I look forward to the expansion and establishment of the Calgary-Incheon route as a permanent service in the future.”

To celebrate the first flight, all passengers received a special goody bag from KTO containing traditional Korean foods such as Yakgwa, Korean tea, a T-Money card (public transit card) and other promotional items. Traditional Korean drumming was performed at the gate ceremony on May 17.

The Korean government has announced 2023-2024 as the year to visit Korea. The two-year activation includes special events, travel packages and promotional campaigns through K-culture to increase visitors to the country.