WestJet’s inaugural flight between Winnipeg and Los Angeles took off yesterday at 7:00 am. The departure of WS1315 is described as a milestone for Manitoba's tourism, trade and business sectors as Winnipeg gains a four-hour link to the film and entertainment mecca.

"With a thriving film and television industry, our Manitoban guests and partners have long awaited this integral connection and will benefit substantially from convenient flights between both cities," said John Weatherill, Chief Commercial Officer.

"As the only airline providing direct connectivity between Winnipeg and Los Angeles, this route not only supports our efforts to bolster the economic success of the communities we serve but provides a vital link that will stimulate new business, investment and tourism opportunities."

"The excitement surrounding this new, non-stop route between Winnipeg and Los Angeles has been building ever since it was announced a few months ago," said Winnipeg Airports Authority President & CEO Nick Hays.

"Not only does it significantly enhance the connectivity of the region we serve, but it's also meaningful for our local economy, particularly the province's thriving film industry. We're ecstatic to help bring this valuable route to Winnipeg Richardson International Airport and are proud to see our longstanding partnership with WestJet continue to grow to benefit all Manitobans."

The departure of WS1315 marks the first of three weekly WestJet flights that will travel between Winnipeg and Los Angeles year-round. Here's the schedule:

WestJet says it will solidify its position as the leading airline in Winnipeg this winter, offering more non-stop routes than any other carrier. Capacity to and from Winnipeg is up 80% in comparison to 2021, serving 22 nonstop, direct routes and producing the largest year-over-year growth of any major airport in the group's network.

Guests travelling beyond Los Angeles will have access to a broad network and benefits through WestJet's partnership with Delta Air Lines. This includes codeshare flights to 20 major U.S. cities, the ability to earn and redeem WestJet Rewards on both airlines, top tier frequent flyer benefits through the entire journey, and access to Delta's LAX SkyClub lounge for eligible guests.