After Air Canada Announced it was scaling back operations and cutting direct flights to Calgary from Regina and other Canadian centers – WestJet has moved in to fill that void.

James Bogusz President and CEO of Regina Airport Authority says the move is a boon for the city.

“We have been working with West Jet in an effort to replace lost capacity. That wasn’t just replaced – we have seen WestJet increase capacity.”

An increase from 3 to 5 daily departures to Calgary from Regina. This equates to an increase of 60 monthly departures out of Regina.

“As much as we are unhappy about the Air Canada news – having WestJet step in with this type of additional capacity – is a great thing for our city”.

Bogusz says WestJet is shifting their strategy – making Calgary Airport their global hub, basing their 787 fleet and international flights out of the airport.

“This is important for those of us in the visitor economy. We need connection to major hubs.”

Bogusz says the additions will ramp up in february and peak in march. The increase will equate to approximately 5000 extra seats.

Additionally Regina’s Airport Authority has been having discussions with ultra low cost carriers – trying to bring in some of those brands to the Queen City.