WestJet, Air France-KLM Work Toward Code-Share

February 4, 2009

WestJet Airlines said on Wednesday it has agreed to study a code-share alliance with Air France and its subsidiary KLM that would be its second such arrangement with non-Canadian carriers and one that will give its customers easier access to Europe.

WestJet, Canada's second-largest airline, said the carriers have signed a memorandum of understanding to come up with a formal code-share late this year or early next year.

Before that, they will look for opportunities to coordinate through accepting each other's tickets and checking in each other's passengers and baggage.

The agreement would follow WestJet's partnership with US low-cost peer Southwest Airlines, which is due to take effect this year.

WestJet said it expected to make connections with Air France and KLM flights in Calgary, Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver.

WestJet shares rose 31 Canadian cents to CAD$13 on the Toronto Stock Exchange on Wednesday.