WestJet has cancelled plans for summer flights between Halifax and Europe. Previously, the airline operated direct flights during summer months from Halifax to London Gatwick, Dublin, Glasgow and Paris.

The airline says in a statement that it made a "strategic decision" to suspend seasonal transatlantic service this year" as it continues to manage and recover its network in response to capacity constraints impacting the aviation ecosystem."

"Halifax remains an integral part of our network and we understand this is disappointing news for our guests and the local community," said WestJet's EVP and chief commercial officer, John Weatherill.

"As we continue to responsibly balance our schedule alongside operational requirements, capacity constraints and the deployment of our aircraft across Canada, we are making these difficult decisions now to enable us to re-position our investments to best serve the province for years to come."

In some good news for travel advisors, summer flights to Europe from Halifax hadn't yet gone on sale.

WestJet says its summer schedule will be released soon. The airline says travellers will see enhanced "domestic offerings from coast-to-coast," including increased service between Halifax and Western Canada.

The airline says it hopes to be able to resume transatlantic service from Nova Scotia’s largest city next year.

Halifax Stanfield International Airport said it is disappointed by the decision, but understands the airline has been dealing with challenges and the move is not a reflection on the viability of the routes.