WestJet's new CEO in favour of codeshare partners

WestJet's incoming CEO, Gregg Saretsky, stated the carrier has MoUs for codeshare operations with additional airlines in Europe and the Asia Pacific region, with the carrier hoping to announce the finalised arrangements within the next few months (USAToday, 23-Mar-2010). Mr Saretsky, who will become President and CEO of the airline on 01-Apr-2010, stated the carrier has been looking for a second partner in Europe and one or two more in the Asia-Pacific region. The carrier currently has agreements with Air France-KLM and China Airlines. Mr Saretsky added that he wants WestJet to add codeshare partners in Latin America, the Middle East and Africa, although no discussions with potential partner airlines have been initiated. WestJet also plans to further attract business passengers and corporate contracts through its codeshare network, its new frequenct flyer programme and branded credit card and its new availability on all of the major GDSs.