Board applauds new WestJet service between YVR and London

For Immediate Release
Sept. 15, 2015

Re: WestJet announces non-stop service between YVR and London Gatwick

VANCOUVER, B.C. — The Vancouver Board of Trade applauds today’s announcement that WestJet will launch non-stop service between Vancouver and London in 2016.

According to WestJet’s news release, the new service will operate six days a week from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to London Gatwick (LGW). The flights will be operated by WestJet’s new fleet of wide-body aircraft, the Boeing 767-300 ER.

“This is exceptional news, not only for British Columbians who travel for business or pleasure, but also for thousands of business owners and employees across the Greater Vancouver region,” said Iain Black, President and CEO of The Vancouver Board of Trade. “These flights will bring thousands of international visitors to our region next summer, which will make a sizable impact on our local economy, particularly in the tourism sector, which already contributes $7 billion to B.C.'s GDP and employs approximately 1 in 15 British Columbians.”

“It’s estimated that a daily international flight at YVR creates about 186 person-years of direct employment here in Greater Vancouver,” added Black. “The ongoing success of YVR airport is something we should all be proud of, because it lays the runway for economic growth across Greater Vancouver.”

For more information, visit YVR’s media centre.

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About The Vancouver Board of Trade:

Since its inception in 1887, The Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Pacific Canada’s leading business association, engaging members to positively impact public policy at all three levels of government and to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one third of B.C.’s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through four unique Member programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events businesses in the country, providing a platform for national and international business and thought leaders to further enlighten B.C.’s business leaders.

Media contact:

Greg Hoekstra
Communications Manager
The Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com