WestJet CEO Urges Canada to Create National Aviation Strategy

WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech called on the Canadian government to develop a National Aviation Strategy to address rising fuel costs and market imbalances. Speaking to the Calgary Chamber of Commerce on October 29, 2026, von Hoensbroech argued that Canada's aviation system has very few shock absorbers left to handle price volatility due to high taxes, airport fees, and regulatory burdens.

Von Hoensbroech criticized the federal government for providing direct financing to certain airlines, claiming this creates an unfair competitive environment for self-funding companies. He contrasted Canada's high airport improvement fees and lack of air-navigation subsidies with the more competitive models found in the United States.

To illustrate a successful path forward, von Hoensbroech cited a 2022 partnership between WestJet and the Government of Alberta to support Calgary as a global connecting hub. He urged the national government to emulate this coordinated investment model to ensure the industry remains affordable and competitive.