WestJet expects strong traffic, capacity and revenue growth to continue in 1Q2017

WestJet stated (07-Feb-2017) it expects system-wide capacity to grow between 6.0% and 6.5% year-over-year in 1Q2017, with domestic capacity projected to increase between 8.0% and 8.5% year-over-year. Systemwide capacity is projected to increase 3.5% to 5.5% year-over-year for 2017, while domestic capacity growth is predicted between 7.5% and 8.5% year-over-year. The carrier attributed a majority of the domestic capacity growth to WestJet Encore and its expanding charter business. WestJet expects strong traffic and revenue growth to continue in 1Q2017 and anticipate a return to positive year-over-year RASM growth of up 1.0% to 3.0%. CASM, excluding fuel and employee profit share is expected to be up 1.5% to 2.0% year-over-year. In terms of FY2017, the carrier continues to expect CASM, excluding fuel and profit share to be up 2.5% to 3.5% year-over-year. [more - original PR]