WestJet grounds 16 planes as a result of Calgary hailstorm
WestJet teams are working diligently to understand and address the damage caused to its fleet by an unprecedented hailstorm that moved through WestJet’s global hub in Calgary on the evening of Aug. 5, 2024.
Following a comprehensive safety assessment, WestJet has determined that 16 of its aircraft, comprising 10 per cent of its total fleet capacity, require substantial repairs and inspections before returning to service.
“As an airline that is proud to call Calgary our home, the extreme weather events that occurred on Monday evening had a disproportionate impact on our people, who experienced damage to their homes and vehicles; our fleet, and our partners at YYC Calgary International Airport” said Diederik Pen, WestJet Group, president of WestJet and group chief operating officer. “The severity and direction of the actual thunderstorm and hail became clear less than 30 minutes before impact, and we are extremely appreciative of our people who took quick action, prioritizing safety above all while limiting damage to our fleet and operation, wherever possible.”
WestJet Calgary fleet status
- 22 company aircraft were on the ground
- 4 were moved into a hangar for protection
- 9 aircraft diverted
- 2 aircraft have been cleared with minor damage
- 16 aircraft are significantly damaged
As a result of the significant impact to WestJet’s fleet, cancellations will be implemented across the airline’s network to account for decreased capacity for the foreseeable future.
Total cancellations by day as of August 7, 11 a.m. MT
| Total cancellations | |
| Monday, August 5 | 58 |
| Tuesday, August 6 | 106 |
| Wednesday, August 7 | 84 |
“All of us at WestJet, we are incredibly disappointed to be disrupting the travel plans of our valued guests again this summer, and greatly appreciate your patience and understanding over the coming days as we weather the impact following this significant storm. As always, I am grateful that our people prioritized the safety of our guests and themselves and continue to do so as we work diligently to restore our aircraft and operation,” continued Pen.
In response to the impact of the storm, a travel advisory has been posted on WestJet.com and flexible change/cancel guidelines have been announced for all WestJet flight only bookings for travel between August 5 and August 8, 2024.
Guests are advised to check the status of their flight prior to leaving for the airport as further delays and cancellations may be required. Please visit WestJet’s Guest Updates page for more information regarding flight status, travel changes and more.
