WestJet Cancels Summer Flights to 10 U.S. Cities Due to Travel Drop
WestJet has announced the cancellation of summer flights to 16 U.S. cities due to a significant decline in transborder travel. This decision, which affects the 2026 summer season, reflects the airline’s efforts to align its network with current travel demand trends.
Details on Flight Cancellations
Julia Kaiser, a media relations advisor at WestJet, confirmed this shift, stating that the airline has witnessed a “notable decline” in travel demand throughout 2025. As a result, WestJet plans to reduce its transborder flying by approximately 10 percent. This includes a significant 15 percent reduction during peak U.S. travel periods.
Routes Affected
The following routes will see service suspended this summer:
- Vancouver to Boston
- Vancouver to Nashville
- Vancouver to San Francisco
- Vancouver to Tampa
- Vancouver to San Diego
- Kelowna to Seattle
- Calgary to Raleigh-Durham
- Edmonton to Atlanta
- Edmonton to Nashville
- Edmonton to San Francisco
- Edmonton to Seattle
- Edmonton to Orlando
- Toronto to Los Angeles
- Winnipeg to Nashville
- Winnipeg to Atlanta
- Halifax to Orlando
Impacts on Travel Demand
The decision comes amidst a general decline in travel between Canada and the U.S. Recent data from Statistics Canada showed that in November 2025, the number of Canadian trips to the U.S. had decreased by 23.6 percent compared to the previous year. Various factors contribute to this trend including economic conditions and safety concerns.
Travel expert Claire Newell emphasized that the decline may not have reached its lowest point, citing ongoing concerns and a weakened Canadian dollar as significant deterrents for travelers. The reality is that many Canadians find their currency to be less valuable when traveling to the U.S.
Responses from Airports and WestJet
Edmonton International Airport recently noted a shift in traveler preferences, confirming a reduction in passengers heading to the U.S. despite strong overall demand. Justin Draper, a senior communications advisor for the airport, highlighted the continued growth in domestic travel and a shift towards international destinations.
In response to changing travel habits, WestJet is reallocating its resources. The airline is increasing capacity on routes that remain popular among Canadians. This summer, WestJet plans to expand its domestic service, launching new non-stop flights connecting Alberta with various locations in Ontario and British Columbia.
Starting May 15, flights will operate daily between Calgary and Campbell River, B.C., with additional routes opening later in May and June.
