Westjet Talking To Boeing, Airbus On 767 Replacement

WestJet Airlines has started talks with aircraft makers on replacements for its fleet of Boeing 767-300s, with delivery expected by the end of this decade.

The airline is talking to Boeing and Airbus on options to replace the 767, an extended range aircraft that will serve Europe starting in May, chief executive Gregg Saretsky said.

"At some point we will have to replace these 767s with next-generation wide-body aircraft," said Saretsky.

Westjet currently has three 767s and expects delivery of a fourth in April, with all four dedicated to non-stop flights to London's Gatwick airport from five Canadian cities.

The airline is also in the market for more 767s, as it looks to build out its Europe-focused fleet. Westjet offers seasonal flights from Canada to Dublin and Glasgow.

Saretsky declined to comment on any specific plans to expand into other markets, noting that the 11-hour range of the 767s would allow for direct flights from Canada to cities in Asia, Eastern Europe and South America.