WestJet suspends 3 U.S. routes from Vancouver due to ‘notable decline’ in demand
WestJet is suspending three U.S. routes from Vancouver due to a significant drop in transborder travel demand throughout 2025.
WestJet Airlines has announced the suspension of three routes connecting Vancouver to U.S. destinations—Boston, San Francisco, and San Diego—due to a notable decline in demand for transborder travel. The airline stated that it has adjusted its network in response to where Canadians prefer to travel, leading to a nearly 10 percent reduction in overall transborder flying and a 15 percent decrease during historically busy travel times. This strategic decision reflects WestJet's aim to align its services with traveler preferences in the current market.
In its statement, WestJet highlighted that the trend of reduced demand for these U.S. routes is not expected to change in the near future. As a result, the airline is not only suspending these routes but has also made further adjustments to its transborder network for 2026. The sustained decline in U.S. travel demand has compelled WestJet to rethink its transborder strategy, indicating a significant shift in travel patterns, particularly as the company prioritizes routes that are popular with Canadians.
Despite the cutbacks in transborder routes, WestJet noted that demand remains strong for domestic flights as well as travel to Latin America, the Caribbean, and transatlantic and transpacific destinations. This discrepancy suggests that while transborder travel may be faltering, other markets are thriving, prompting WestJet to increase capacity on routes that are currently in demand, demonstrating its adaptability in a changing travel landscape.