WestJet Places Largest Boeing Order to Expand Canadian Fleet

WestJet’s Historic Boeing Order: Canada’s Largest Airline Fleet Expansion Sets Stage for Industry Transformation

In September 2025, WestJet and Boeing announced a landmark deal that will see the Canadian airline acquire 67 new aircraft, its largest-ever single order. This strategic move, comprising 60 Boeing 737-10 MAX jets (with options for 25 more) and seven 787-9 Dreamliners (with options for four more), brings WestJet’s firm order book to 123 aircraft. The decision is significant for several reasons: it signals WestJet’s ambition to become a dominant force in Canadian and international aviation, demonstrates optimism about post-pandemic recovery, and underlines the airline’s commitment to fleet modernization and operational efficiency.

The timing of this order is particularly notable, coming at a period when the global aviation industry faces supply chain constraints, certification delays (especially for the 737 MAX 10), and a rapidly evolving competitive landscape. WestJet’s bold step not only positions it as Canada’s most aggressive growth story but also challenges the traditional dominance of Air Canada, setting the stage for a new era in Canadian air travel.

This article explores the background and details of WestJet’s historic order, analyzes the aircraft involved, examines the strategic and financial implications, and places the deal in the broader context of the Canadian airline industry and global aviation trends.

WestJet’s Evolution: From Regional Upstart to National and International Player

WestJet’s journey began in 1996 with just three Boeing 737s, 220 employees, and a handful of routes in Western Canada. Founded on the principles of low-cost, efficient, and friendly service, the airline quickly gained a reputation as a disruptor in the Canadian market, offering affordable alternatives to incumbent carriers. Over the next two decades, WestJet steadily expanded its network across Canada, leveraging the operational commonality and cost benefits of an all-Boeing 737 fleet.

The 2000s saw WestJet expand eastward, and by 2014, the company announced plans to acquire wide-body aircraft for international service. Its initial foray into long-haul operations involved leased Boeing 767-300ERs, but reliability issues prompted a shift to more modern equipment. The arrival of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in 2017 marked a turning point, enabling WestJet to offer direct, premium service from Canada to Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

Today, WestJet operates nearly 150 Boeing 737s and a growing fleet of Dreamliners, with an average fleet age of about 10 years, making it one of the youngest among North American legacy carriers. This foundation of operational efficiency and fleet commonality has been central to WestJet’s growth strategy and its ability to offer affordable travel options.

Strategic Growth and Market Positioning

The latest Boeing order is a clear signal of WestJet’s intent to solidify its place as Canada’s leading challenger airline. With this deal, WestJet not only doubles its Dreamliner fleet but also secures the largest aircraft order book in Canada. CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech highlighted the importance of this expansion, linking it to both affordable travel for Canadians and new career opportunities for WestJet employees.

The scale of this order also provides WestJet with the flexibility to adjust to market conditions, expand into new international markets, and increase frequency on high-demand domestic routes. The addition of more 737-10s and Dreamliners ensures WestJet can efficiently serve both short-haul and long-haul markets, leveraging the operational advantages of fleet commonality.

These moves are especially significant given the competitive dynamics of the Canadian market, which is dominated by two major carriers. WestJet’s aggressive fleet expansion is poised to intensify competition, potentially leading to more choices and better prices for Canadian travelers.

“With the addition of these aircraft, WestJet has the largest order book of any airline in Canada, and will double our fleet of Dreamliners, underpinning our growth plans and our commitment to affordable travel options for Canadians and exciting career paths for our people.”, Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet CEO

Boeing 737-10 MAX and 787-9 Dreamliner: Technology, Efficiency, and Passenger Experience

Central to WestJet’s order are two of Boeing’s most advanced aircraft: the 737-10 MAX and the 787-9 Dreamliner. The 737-10 is the largest variant of the MAX family, offering seating for around 230 passengers in a typical two-class configuration. It is designed for maximum fuel efficiency and the lowest cost per seat in the single-aisle market. Its operational commonality with WestJet’s existing 737 fleet means minimal retraining for pilots and maintenance crews, further reducing costs.

The 787-9 Dreamliner, on the other hand, is a long-haul wide-body aircraft capable of flying up to 7,635 nautical miles with a typical two-class capacity of 290 passengers. It features a composite fuselage, advanced aerodynamics, and next-generation engines, resulting in approximately 20% better fuel efficiency compared to previous-generation wide-bodies. The Dreamliner’s passenger experience is enhanced by improved cabin pressurization, higher humidity, and larger windows, making it attractive for international travelers.

Both aircraft types are crucial to WestJet’s growth plans. The 737-10 will serve high-density domestic and transcontinental routes, while the expanded Dreamliner fleet opens up new opportunities in the lucrative transatlantic and transpacific markets. These aircraft also support WestJet’s sustainability goals by reducing fuel burn and emissions.

Certification Challenges and Industry Headwinds

Despite the technological advancements, Boeing faces ongoing certification challenges with the 737-10 MAX. The aircraft remains uncertified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as of late 2025, mainly due to technical issues with the engine anti-ice system and evolving regulatory standards. Boeing has sought multiple exemptions and continues to work on compliance solutions, pushing expected certification into 2026.

These delays impact WestJet’s fleet planning and capacity deployment, as the airline is positioned to be the launch customer for the 737-10. While Boeing’s large backlog provides some insulation, supply chain constraints and regulatory scrutiny have stretched delivery timelines for all manufacturers, not just Boeing.

The Dreamliner program, while more mature, has also faced production slowdowns due to quality control issues and pandemic-related disruptions. However, both Boeing and WestJet remain optimistic about meeting long-term delivery schedules, with the order spread out through 2034 to allow for operational flexibility.

“We are honored that WestJet has once again placed its trust in Boeing with a major investment that builds on our three decades of partnership and solidifies their fleet for the decades ahead.”, Stephanie Pope, President and CEO, Boeing Commercial Airplanes

Financial and Competitive Implications in the Canadian Airline Industry

The financial magnitude of WestJet’s order is substantial, with industry analysts estimating the deal’s value in the multi-billion dollar range. While list prices for the 737-10 and 787-9 are publicly available, actual transaction values are typically lower due to negotiated discounts. The commitment nonetheless represents a significant capital allocation for WestJet, whose 2019 operating revenue was about $3.8 billion CAD.

The extended delivery timeline through 2034 allows WestJet to phase in new aircraft, retire older models, and align capacity with market demand. Financing is expected to involve a mix of operating leases, finance leases, and direct purchases, supported by the airline’s private equity ownership under Onex Corporation since 2019. This ownership structure provides the financial stability and long-term perspective needed for such a major investment.

In terms of market dynamics, WestJet’s move is set to intensify competition with Air Canada, which currently holds the largest market share in both domestic and international segments. The order also sends a message to smaller competitors like Porter and Flair, as well as international carriers, that WestJet intends to be a formidable presence on both North American and global routes.

Broader Economic and Industry Impact

The ripple effects of WestJet’s order extend well beyond the airline itself. Boeing’s relationship with Canadian suppliers generates an estimated $4 billion in annual economic benefit for Canada and supports thousands of jobs in aerospace manufacturing, engineering, and related sectors. Alberta, home to WestJet’s headquarters, is poised to benefit from increased activity and investment in aviation.

The expansion will also create new employment opportunities within WestJet and across airport operations, maintenance, and support services. As WestJet ramps up its international network, Canadian tourism and business travel stand to gain from greater connectivity and more competitive airfares.

On a global scale, WestJet’s bet on fuel-efficient aircraft aligns with industry-wide trends toward sustainability and environmental responsibility. The transition to modern fleets is critical as airlines respond to regulatory and consumer pressures to reduce emissions and operate more sustainably.

“Canada is one of Boeing’s largest international supply bases, providing aerospace parts for all Boeing commercial airplane models in production. This relationship contributes approximately $4 billion in economic benefit to Canada annually.”, Boeing statement

Conclusion: A Bold Bet on the Future of Canadian Aviation

WestJet’s largest-ever order for Boeing aircraft marks a defining moment in Canadian aviation. By securing 67 new jets, including the technologically advanced 737-10 MAX and 787-9 Dreamliner, WestJet is preparing to double down on its growth ambitions, expand its international reach, and challenge the status quo in a market long dominated by Air Canada. The deal’s scale, timing, and strategic intent underscore WestJet’s confidence in the recovery and long-term prospects of air travel.

Looking ahead, WestJet’s success will depend on its ability to navigate certification delays, manage operational complexity, and maintain financial discipline. If executed effectively, this fleet expansion could transform the competitive landscape of Canadian aviation, offering travelers more choices, better service, and a new standard for efficiency and sustainability. The next decade will reveal whether WestJet’s bold bet pays off, but for now, the airline has undeniably set a new benchmark for ambition in the industry.

FAQ

Question: What types of aircraft are included in WestJet’s latest Boeing order?
Answer: The order consists of 60 Boeing 737-10 MAX jets (with options for 25 more) and seven Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners (with options for four more).

Question: Why is this order significant for WestJet?
Answer: It is WestJet’s largest-ever order, doubles its Dreamliner fleet, and gives it the largest aircraft order book in Canada, positioning the airline for aggressive growth and increased competition with Air Canada.

Question: What are the main challenges associated with the Boeing 737-10 MAX?
Answer: The 737-10 MAX is still awaiting certification from the FAA due to technical and regulatory issues, which may delay deliveries and impact WestJet’s fleet plans.

Question: How does this order impact the Canadian economy?
Answer: The deal benefits Canada’s aerospace sector, supports jobs, and contributes billions of dollars in economic activity through Boeing’s Canadian supply chain.

Question: When will the new aircraft be delivered?
Answer: Deliveries are scheduled to extend through 2034, allowing WestJet to phase in the new aircraft gradually.

Sources: Boeing Media Room