Launch of WestJet Link flights from Calgary to 5 Alberta, B.C. cities delayed by 3 months

WestJet's launch of its planned new regional air service, WestJet Link, is being delayed by three months, the company said in a release Wednesday.

In November, WestJet announced a capacity purchase agreement with Pacific Coastal Airlines that would connect Lethbridge, Lloydminster, Medicine Hat, Cranbrook and Prince George with the Calgary International Airport.

• WestJet announces new daily routes from Calgary to 5 cities in Alberta, B.C.

The daily routes were set to begin between March 7 and 31.Now, the launch has been delayed until June 20 through 22.

WestJet said in a statement that the delay is due to Pacific Coastal's continuing work to meet the company's operational requirements.

Pacific Coastal is a private airline based out of Vancouver International Airport's south terminal. It flies to 50 destinations around B.C.

The flights will be operated by Pacific Coastal's 34-seat Saab 340Bplanes, painted in WestJet colours.

"WestJetapologizes to our guests for the inconvenience these delays may cause," saidBrian Znotins, WestJetvice-president of network planning.

The company said impacted guests will be offered different options including alternative transportation, a full refund or a rescheduled flight.

The company said it's in the process of reaching out to guests whose itineraries wereaffected.

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