WestJet launched its first flight from Calgary International Airport to London's Heathrow Airport over the weekend.

The new service which will operate up to 4X-weekly complements WestJet's existing flights to London-Gatwick with the airline now offering up to 9X-weekly service between Calgary and London this summer.

"We are pleased to provide our guests travelling to London for business and leisure with greater choice and convenience as we celebrate our inaugural flight to Heathrow Airport," said Chris Hedlin, WestJet Vice-President, Network & Alliances.

"This new route not only strengthens Alberta's travel and tourism pipeline but creates new opportunities for our guests to benefit from access to one of the most connected global aviation hubs."

WestJet says Saturday's flight from its global hub in Calgary furthers the airline's commitment to Alberta as it continues to rebuild transatlantic connectivity between Canada and Europe.

WestJet's service to Europe from YYC Calgary International airport now includes non-stop flights to London-Heathrow, London Gatwick and Paris with service to Rome and Dublin set to begin in May.

"We look forward to providing Canadians and Europeans with enhanced connectivity from Western Canada as we further our commitment to supporting the economic recovery of inbound tourism on both sides of the Atlantic," added Hedlin.