WestJet has launched a non-stop transborder service between Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP).

The new service of five weekly flights between Edmonton and Minneapolis means that WestJet has increased Edmonton’s transborder capacity this summer by over 150 per cent and its total network capacity by over 40 per cent.

It marks the airline’s largest network expansion from a single city in its history.

Chris Avery, WestJet’s vice president of network planning, alliances and commercial development, said: “Through our new service connecting Edmonton and Minneapolis, WestJet is doing our part to further enhance the economic success of the communities we serve through the implementation of strategic routes that serve to stimulate vital business and tourism opportunities.”

Myron Keehn, president and chief executive of YEG, said: “WestJet has been an important partner for YEG since their inception, more than 27 years ago, and we are proud that our relationship continues to grow and strengthen.

“We are excited to celebrate their renewed commitment to YEG and welcome this important air service link for our community.”

Brian Ryks, chief executive of the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), said: “We’re pleased to welcome WestJet and to have another prominent international carrier serving MSP.

“This gives business and leisure travellers across the upper Midwest more convenient, direct access to Western Canada.”