Canadian hybrid carrier WestJet has recently begun regular flights between Halifax and Amsterdam using the Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. This route, which will operate six times a week, marks the first-ever direct air connection between the two cities, according to FlightAware data.
The flight takes approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes, with the aircraft cruising at an average speed of 840 km/h at 11,277 meters (FL 370). According to the manufacturer, the 737 MAX 8 offers 14% fuel savings and lower CO₂ emissions compared to previous models, making it an ideal choice for long-haul routes, as highlighted by the specialized aviation portal Simple Flying.
WestJet has successfully expanded its fleet despite global challenges in new aircraft deliveries. In collaboration with SMBC Aviation Capital, the company added three new 737 MAX 8s to its fleet last September. “These aircraft will enable us to further expand our network and provide sustainable travel options for our passengers,” said Barry Flannery of SMBC Aviation Capital in a statement to Simple Flying.
The new route significantly boosts WestJet’s transatlantic capacity, with a 97% increase compared to the previous season. In addition to Amsterdam, passengers from Halifax can now fly directly to Paris, London, Dublin, and Edinburgh, while codeshare partnerships with Air France and KLM facilitate seamless transfers to other European destinations.
These changes will particularly benefit passengers using airports in Eastern Canada, offering them more direct flights and fewer layovers on popular European routes.
