Loading
19-Apr-2010 1:07 PM

Southwest Airlines ends codeshare talks with WestJet

Southwest Airlines notified (16-Apr-2010) WestJet of its intent to terminate the agreement to offer connecting service between the US and Canada. Recently, WestJet requested significant changes to the agreement that the two airlines have had in place since 2008, and WestJet has since reaffirmed and clarified its request. Southwest commented that it "cannot agree with the modifications to the confidential agreement". [more] WestJet is reportedly in talks with Delta Air Lines to launch a new codeshare, claiming Southwest's reservation system lacked the functionality needed for the type of codeshare arrangement WestJet was looking for.

Southwest Airlines: "We prefer the existing terms of our agreement with WestJet. Upon reviewing the number of changes that WestJet has requested, we have decided that it is in the best interest of both parties to move forward independently. We remain interested in exploring the possibility of one day offering service to Canada if it makes sense for Southwest and for our customers. That would not rule out future codeshare relationships with Canadian carriers, or flying north of the border ourselves," Bob Jordan, Executive VP Strategy and Planning. Source: Company Statement, 16-Apr-2010.

Want More News Like This?

CAPA Membership provides access to all news and analysis on the site, along with access to many areas of our comprehensive databases and toolsets.
Find Out More