Source: WestJet. Kirsten de Bruijn
WestJet Cargo has confirmed plans to discontinue freighter operations and news that executive vice president Kirsten de Bruijn will leave the airline later this year.
The Canadian airline told Air Cargo News that its dedicated freighter operations were no longer part of the wider group’s core strategy.
It currently has two converted Boeing 737-800 converted freighters in operation while another two are in storage.
“WestJet continues to explore various opportunities for these aircraft," the airline said.
"WestJet Cargo’s focus remains on optimising WestJet’s belly capacity of its entire passenger fleet, which continues to provide a reliable and sustainable solution in global airfreight."
The airline took delivery of its first freighter in April 2022, but was not able to put the aircraft into service until a year later due to the time it took for Boeing to gain approval from Canadian authorities for its conversion programme.
Then last year, the carrier decided to put two of its four freighters into storage due to tough market conditions.
WestJet is not the only Canadian airline to reduce its planned exposure to freighter operations in recent years.
In 2023, Air Canada cancelled an order for two newbuild Boeing 777 freighters that were due to enter service in 2024 and reduced its plans for 767 frieghters from 10 to six.
Cargojet also ditched its plans to add 777 freighters to its fleet last year.
Meanwhile, WestJet Cargo also confirmed that de Bruijn has decided to depart the company in June.
"Her leadership has been instrumental in the growth of WestJet Cargo, which remains fully operational and committed to meeting its customers’ needs," the airline said.
WestJet Cargo chief executive Alexis von Hoensbroech said in a LinkedIn post: "We have seen significant growth and success in our cargo business thanks to Kirsten’s expertise and leadership.
"She was instrumental in building and growing a high-performing cargo organization capable of succeeding within a rapidly evolving market."
In response, de Bruijn said: "I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together, navigating a dynamic market and establishing a strong cargo business.
"As the freighters transition out of WestJet’s operations, this feels like the right time for me to embrace new challenges.
