- WestJet announced it will launch non-stop routes between Winnipeg and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, and between Winnipeg and Belize City, Belize.
- The Punta Cana flights will begin on Nov. 28, 2026, while the Belize City flights will start on Dec. 14, 2026.
- These new routes are part of WestJet's plan to serve 50 sun destinations from 15 Canadian cities during the peak winter travel season.
- WestJet is also adding a direct flight from Calgary to Merida, Mexico, starting on Dec. 17, 2026.
- The new service to Merida will run once a week and marks WestJet's first-ever service to this destination from Calgary.
- John Weatherill, WestJet's executive vice-president, stated that the new routes support the growing demand for Latin Caribbean options.
- Nick Hays, president and CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority, expressed excitement over the new direct routes, emphasizing their importance for Manitobans.
WestJet is expanding its winter 2026/2027 routes with new non-stop flights from Winnipeg to Punta Cana and Belize City, enhancing travel options for Manitobans. The Punta Cana service begins on November 28, 2026, while flights to Belize City start on December 14, 2026.12
The Calgary-based airline also introduces a weekly flight to Mérida, Mexico, commencing on December 17, 2026, marking its first service to this destination from Calgary International Airport (YYC). “We know that Calgarians are always eager for direct flights south,” said Balazs Bogats, Chief Commercial Officer at Calgary Airports.4
WestJet's new routes reflect a growing demand for travel to the Latin Caribbean, with the airline now offering 50 sun destinations from 15 Canadian cities, the most of any Canadian airline. “We are excited to offer more ways for guests to trade their snow boots for sandals,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer.36
The Winnipeg Airports Authority expressed enthusiasm for the new routes, with President and CEO Nick Hays stating, “We are dedicated to offering more flights to places that matter to Manitobans.” This expansion is seen as a strong signal of confidence in tourism growth, particularly for Belize, as noted by Belize's Minister of Tourism, Anthony Mahler.7
Overall, these additions not only enhance connectivity but also cater to the increasing desire for warm-weather travel options during the winter months.
“The Winnipeg-Punta Cana and Winnipeg-Belize City flights will operate weekly starting November 28 and December 14 respectively, giving Manitobans non-stop access to the Caribbean and Central America. John Weatherill, WestJet's Chief Commercial Officer, said the routes allow guests to "trade their snow boots for sandals" as WestJet now serves 50 sun destinations from 15 Canadian cities.”
Winnipeg Free Press
