WestJet announces summer flights to Yellowknife

Travellers flying in and out of Yellowknife will soon have another airline to choose from, as WestJet announced Wednesday it will start offering flights between the N.W.T. capital and Edmonton.

Calgary-basedWestJet says it will fly in and out of Yellowknife daily starting May 4, during the summers only.

WestJet executive vice-president Bob Cummings cited Yellowknife's identity as North America's diamond capital, as well as itsappeal to eco-tourists, as factors in the new flight offering.

"Our seasonal non-stop service to Yellowknife from Edmonton will make it possible for more people to enjoy this spectacular gateway to the North," Cummings said ina release.

The airline says it will offer introductory fares starting at $149 one way, not including taxes and surcharges.

Currently, Air Canada Jazz offers daily direct flights between Yellowknife and the Alberta cities of Edmonton and Calgary. Jazz also flies between Yellowknife and Vancouver during the winter.

The northern airlines Canadian North and First Air also offer regularflights from Yellowknife to Edmonton and Calgary.