Swoop's New Brunswick Flights

Yes, Swoop does fly to New Brunswick. In May 2022, Swoop celebrated its inaugural flight to the province, with a trip from John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport to Greater Moncton Roméo Leblanc International Airport. The airline also offers a service between Edmonton and Moncton, as well as between Toronto and Saint John. Swoop is Canada's leading ultra-low-cost airline and was founded in 2017.

Swoop's inaugural flight to New Brunswick

On May 9, 2022, Swoop, Canada's leading ultra-low-cost airline, celebrated its inaugural flight to New Brunswick, specifically the city of Moncton. The flight, numbered WO168, departed from John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (YHM) at 8:00 a.m. ET and landed at the Greater Moncton Roméo Leblanc International Airport (YQM) at 10:55 a.m. local time. This marked the beginning of Swoop's expansion into Atlantic Canada, with Moncton becoming one of 11 new routes to the east coast for the summer of 2022.

Bert van der Stege, Head of Commercial and Finance at Swoop, expressed excitement about the new non-stop service, stating that Swoop's ultra-low fares would make travel more accessible for Canadians eager to reconnect with loved ones during the summer. New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs also praised Swoop's arrival, noting its contribution to the province's economic recovery and the creation of more jobs for residents.

In addition to the inaugural Hamilton-Moncton flight, Swoop announced new non-stop services connecting Edmonton and Moncton, commencing on June 17, and Toronto and Saint John, starting later that week. The airline's expansion into New Brunswick was a significant step towards increasing travel options and supporting the region's tourism industry.

Swoop, established in 2017 as an independent subsidiary of the WestJet Group of Companies, positioned itself as Canada's ultra-low-cost airline. The airline's inaugural flight took place in 2018, servicing the Hamilton-Abbotsford route. With its primary hub at Hamilton International Airport, Swoop offered flights to various destinations in Canada, the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Unfortunately, Swoop ceased operations in October 2023 and has since been re-integrated with WestJet, combining forces to offer more affordable airfares to a wider range of destinations.

Swoop's non-stop service to Moncton

Swoop, Canada's leading ultra-low-cost airline, celebrated its inaugural non-stop flight to Moncton, New Brunswick, on May 9, 2022. The flight, numbered WO168, departed from John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (YHM) at 8:00 a.m. ET and landed at the Greater Moncton Roméo Leblanc International Airport (YQM) at 10:55 a.m. local time. This marked an important expansion of Swoop's services to Atlantic Canada, with Moncton becoming one of 11 new routes to the east coast that summer.

In addition to the Hamilton-Moncton route, Swoop also introduced a new non-stop service connecting Edmonton and Moncton, commencing on June 17, 2022. This additional route further enhanced travel options for those travelling to and from New Brunswick.

The introduction of these non-stop services was a significant development for the region, as it provided a low-cost travel option for cost-conscious travellers. It also contributed to the economic growth and recovery of the province, particularly in the tourism sector. New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs highlighted the positive impact of Swoop's arrival, stating that it added to the "incredible momentum" in the province and would facilitate increased visitation and connectivity.

Furthermore, Swoop's non-stop service to Moncton provided enhanced connectivity for business travellers. The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Moncton CEO, John Wishart, emphasised that Swoop's presence gave the region a low-cost option for reaching central Canada's air hubs, making business connections more accessible and cost-effective. This improved connectivity not only benefited travellers but also contributed to the economic vitality of the region by facilitating business interactions and attracting more visitors.

Swoop's low-cost fares

Swoop, Canada's leading ultra-low-cost airline, offers highly competitive prices for travellers. With a mission to make travel more accessible and affordable for all Canadians, Swoop provides a range of options to suit budget-conscious travellers.

Inaugural Flight to New Brunswick

On May 9, 2022, Swoop celebrated its inaugural flight to New Brunswick, marking a significant expansion into Atlantic Canada. The flight between John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (YHM) and Greater Moncton Roméo Leblanc International Airport (YQM) signalled Swoop's commitment to increasing accessibility and affordability in the region.

Competitive Pricing

Swoop's pricing strategy is a key component of its low-cost model. When the airline was founded in 2017, it aimed to offer ticket prices approximately 40% lower than its parent company, WestJet. This significant price difference makes Swoop an attractive option for cost-conscious travellers.

Unbundled Fares

A unique aspect of Swoop's pricing strategy is its unbundled fare structure. Passengers have the flexibility to customise their travel experience by adding only the services they desire. This means you can opt for a basic seat-only ticket to keep costs down or choose to add extras like baggage, food, and Wi-Fi for a small fee. This unbundled approach empowers travellers to tailor their journey according to their preferences and budget.

Additional Cost Options

Swoop offers various additional cost options to enhance your travel experience. You can purchase carry-on baggage, with dimensions not exceeding 52 cm x 23 cm x 38 cm, for a fee. Passengers can also buy up to four pieces of checked baggage, each with a weight limit of 23 kg and total dimensions not exceeding 157 cm. These baggage options provide convenience and flexibility for travellers with varying needs.

Additionally, Swoop provides the option to buy seats with extra legroom, offering 36" of seat pitch. These seats are located on the right half of the first six rows and are available at an extra cost, ensuring comfort for those who desire more space.

In-Flight Entertainment and Wi-Fi

Swoop's mobile app enhances the travel experience by providing access to in-flight entertainment and Wi-Fi. Passengers can download the app before their flight and enjoy streaming the latest TV shows and movies on their personal electronic devices. The Wi-Fi network, accessible through the app, enables light browsing and email communication during the flight, keeping passengers connected to the world.

Merger with WestJet

In October 2023, Swoop merged with WestJet, combining their efforts to provide even more affordable airfares to a broader range of destinations. This merger allows travellers to benefit from expanded networks and increased opportunities for low-cost travel.

Swoop's merger with WestJet

On October 29, 2023, Canadian low-cost airline Swoop merged with its parent company, WestJet. The merger was the result of a tentative agreement between WestJet and the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), which represents pilots at both airlines. The agreement included a 24% pay increase for pilots over four years and took effect on January 1, 2023, lasting until December 31, 2026.

Swoop was an ultra-low-cost subsidiary of WestJet, founded in 2017 and based at Hamilton International Airport in Ontario. The airline offered flights to destinations in Canada, the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. With the merger, Swoop's operations and employees were integrated into WestJet's mainline carrier. WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech stated that the integration would enhance their ability to serve a broader range of guests by offering ultra-affordable travel options through a premium in-flight experience.

The merger raised concerns among critics and travellers about reduced competition and higher prices. However, WestJet reassured that consumers would continue to have access to cheap seats and more choices. Von Hoensbroech emphasised that each aircraft in their 180-strong fleet would offer ultra-affordable travel options, ensuring that the integration would not result in a reduction in low-cost travel options.

The consolidation of Swoop into WestJet's operations was expected to be completed by October 28, 2023. During the transition period, Swoop continued to operate its existing network until the end of its published schedule.

Swoop's baggage policy

Swoop Baggage Policy

Swoop Airlines, a subsidiary of WestJet, is a low-cost airline that offers flights to destinations in Canada, the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. As an ultra-low-cost carrier, Swoop charges fees for all baggage, including carry-on bags. The airline's baggage policies vary depending on the type of fare, destination, and the baggage's weight, size, and quantity.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

Each passenger is allowed to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag. The personal item must not exceed 41 cm x 15 cm x 33 cm and can include items such as a purse, small backpack, laptop bag, or briefcase. It should be able to fit under the seat in front of the passenger.

Carry-on baggage must not exceed the dimensions of 52 cm x 23 cm x 38 cm and must fit in the overhead bin. Carry-on baggage fees are based on distance bands, with shorter distances being cheaper. The fees increase the closer you get to your departure date, with the lowest fees when paid for in advance. There is also an additional $2 fee for carry-on baggage during peak travel periods.

Checked Baggage Allowance

Swoop Airlines allows a maximum of four checked bags per passenger. The maximum dimensions are 157 cm (62 inches) and the maximum weight is 23 kg (50 lbs). Like carry-on baggage, checked baggage fees are based on distance bands and increase as the departure date approaches. Purchasing baggage online on the day of the flight will incur a fee of $10-$20, while buying at the airport will be more expensive.

Oversized and Overweight Baggage

Bags exceeding the maximum dimensions of 157 cm and weight of 23 kg will be considered oversized or overweight. For domestic and international flights, Swoop charges an additional fee of $105 to $115 for such baggage.

Special Baggage Items

Swoop Airlines allows certain special baggage items, including sports equipment, assistive devices, musical instruments, and infant baggage. Sports equipment, such as skis, golf bags, and fishing equipment, will be accepted up to the size and weight limits and will count as one checked bag. Assistive devices like crutches and canes are allowed free of charge. Musical instruments under 113 cm can be carried as a carry-on item, while larger instruments will be considered checked baggage. Infant baggage, such as car seats and booster seats, is allowed free of charge, while other items like restraint devices and strollers require additional charges.

Military Baggage Allowance

Active military members are allowed to carry two free checked bags and one free carry-on bag on any fare to any destination.

Overall, Swoop Airlines offers a cost-effective option for travellers, but it is important to be mindful of the baggage policies and associated fees to avoid unexpected charges.

Frequently asked questions