New non-stop route to Atlanta will significantly enhance connectivity of the community

Manitobans will soon have a direct link to one of the world’s most connected airports, making it easier to unlock new business opportunities or discover new destinations around the world.

On Thursday, plans for a new year-round, non-stop route between Winnipeg Richardson International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport were unveiled by WestJet. Service is scheduled to start September 6, with flights taking off five times per week.

With more than 1,000 daily departures to 210-plus destinations, Atlanta’s airport ranks among the top ‘megahubs’ for air travel globally. On top of the countless connections this new route will create, travellers will also see the benefit of more convenient journeys.

Local business professionals will no longer need to spend all day flying from city to city to city to access the areas they serve or explore new markets, which allows for more time at home to build their organizations and, in turn, Manitoba’s economy. It will also make it simpler for leisure travellers to discover dream destinations or re-visit their favourite people and places. Plus, by utilizing the U.S. Customs and Border Protection pre-clearance facility at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport, those flying to the United States can skip customs lines once they land, getting them to where they need to be sooner.

“At Winnipeg Airports Authority, we’re committed to landing more connections to more places that matter for the community,” said WAA President and CEO Nick Hays. “The wide range of flights available out of Atlanta will create countless possibilities for Manitobans. This route will allow anyone travelling from Winnipeg to seamlessly access countless options, benefiting everyone who lives and works here.”

Air connectivity plays a crucial role in the community, bringing trade, tourism, and new business, resulting in more jobs and dollars for the economy. To make non-stop flights between Winnipeg and Atlanta a reality, WAA closely collaborated with WestJet, Economic Development Winnipeg, and the Government of Manitoba. The Province is also providing $5 million to support the new route and enhance air connectivity.

“It takes a community to support a community,” said Hays. “We’re extremely grateful for the tireless work by these organizations to bring this valuable service to Manitobans. Strong partnerships like this are integral to our collective success in making Manitoba an even better place to do business and to call home.”