WestJet Cargo to sell Virgin Atlantic’s cargo capacity

WestJet Cargo has announced a block space agreement (BSA) with Virgin Atlantic from Toronto to London and beyond starting March 31.

"This marks a commercial year-round collaboration that will significantly boost cargo capacity between the East Coast of Canada to London and beyond on Virgin Atlantic network," says an official release from WestJet Cargo. "This commercial partnership strengthens trade links between Canada and key destinations across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. In addition, it signifies the airline’s return to the Canadian cargo market after more than two decades, leveraging WestJet Cargo’s proven expertise to manage and sell this key route."

WestJet Cargo will sell cargo capacity on Virgin Atlantic’s wide-body flights from Toronto to London offering up to 20 tonnes of capacity per day. All shipments from Toronto will be moved under a WestJet Cargo air waybill, the release added.

“Virgin Atlantic’s decision to entrust WestJet Cargo with managing this crucial route is a testament to our deep understanding of the Canadian market and our operational excellence," says Kirsten de Bruijn, Executive Vice President, WestJet Cargo. "It's a natural synergy with the same ground handling in both Toronto Pearson International and London Heathrow. We have a super team based in Toronto who are eager to make this commercial partnership a success for both carriers. Our specialised expertise in handling high-value commodities such as pharmaceuticals and valuables ensures that customers receive reliable, top-tier service, all while providing seamless access to Virgin Atlantic’s London service and beyond."

Nick Diesel, Managing Director, Virgin Atlantic Cargo adds: "We’re thrilled to further enhance our commercial partnership with WestJet, leveraging their longstanding cargo expertise in the Canadian marketplace. This collaboration will ensure our customers across the region will have seamless access and added capacity throughout Virgin Atlantic’s global network. Canada is an important market for us, and this partnership enables us to provide cargo solutions that support trade and business growth between Toronto, London and beyond."

The partnership represents a renewed commitment by Virgin Atlantic to the Canadian cargo market, connecting inbound cargo via its state-of-the-art cargo facility at London Heathrow, and signals a new era of strategic growth and innovation for WestJet Cargo, the release added.