Saskatchewan, Canada, a province known for its vast rolling grasslands, forests, and wheat fields, is set to gain another year-round route to the United States. Canadian carrier WestJet has announced the launch of year-round, nonstop flights from Regina International Airport (YQR) to Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) as part of its summer 2024 schedule. This new route will provide increased connectivity and travel options for residents of Saskatchewan and open up opportunities for business and leisure travel.
Starting from April 28, WestJet’s regional subsidiary will operate one daily round-trip flight on a De Havilland Dash 8 Q400 turboprop aircraft. This addition follows the launch of WestJet flights between Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport (YXE), the largest city in Saskatchewan, and MSP in June. While WestJet operates several seasonal flights to the US and Mexico from YQR, this will be the first year-round route to the US from the small Canadian airport since 2016.
The introduction of a year-round, nonstop route to the US has been eagerly anticipated by travelers in Regina. James Bogusz, the president and CEO of Regina International Airport, expressed that it was the number one request from travelers in the area. Bogusz noted that the airport has been working closely with WestJet to fulfill this demand, and he is thrilled that the airline has delivered on this request for the community.
The new route holds significant benefits for travelers, particularly those who are members of Delta Air Lines and WestJet’s reciprocal elite benefits program. MSP is a major hub for Delta Air Lines, and the two airlines have a codeshare agreement in place. This means that passengers traveling on either airline will be able to enjoy the benefits and conveniences of the new route.
Jared Mikoch-Gerke, WestJet’s director of alliances and airport affairs, emphasized that the addition of the new route reinforces the airline’s commitment to Regina, the capital of Saskatchewan. He believes that this investment will support the economic growth of the region and unlock opportunities for both business and leisure travelers. With affordable travel being a key focus for WestJet, this new route will provide greater accessibility and convenience for residents of Saskatchewan.
In conclusion, the introduction of year-round, nonstop flights from Regina, Saskatchewan to Minneapolis-Saint Paul is an exciting development for the province. WestJet’s commitment to providing affordable travel options and expanding connectivity underscores the importance of this new route. Travelers in Saskatchewan can now look forward to enhanced access to the United States, further promoting economic growth and opening up a world of opportunities for both business and leisure travelers.