WestJet Lands at StFX!

WestJet took to the skies February 29, 1996 with 200 people, three Boeing 737-200s, and five destinations. WestJet was a paradigm shift. They found a new way to price fares - offering the lowest priced flights, They spoke the right language and offered a unique culture of care.

Last week StFX students had the opportunity to hear from Jon Quinton, Station Manager at WestJet's Halifax base. He shared WestJets 5 secrets to success.

1. We Care to Plan

WestJets culture thrives and continues to provide WestJetters with a sense of community within the organization and a sense of pride in association with WestJet that maintains a fun, friendly and caring experience ensuring the well-being and continued relationships with their current and potential guests. WestJet has over 250 programs annually that celebrate the culture.

2. We Care to Share

WestJet offers an employee share purchase plan, over 85% of WestJetters are shareholders. Since the inception of the program WestJetters have earned $190M, they celebrate twice yearly where a percentage of their profits are divided among all WestJetters. As the profits get bigger, so does their share of it!

3. We Care to REALLY Listen

WestJet has put in place a variety of programs to listen to WestJetters. Programs like Tech Talks, Airport visits and Test ideas. Not only does WestJet listen to their guests by incorporating them into their decisions, they also conduct regular guest surveys.

4. We Care to Design

WestJet designs all of their experiences and processes to make sure their WestJetters can be proud and successful. They ensure that their guests are truly getting value out of everything they do.

5. We Care to Celebrate and Have Fun

Fun is part of the fabric of WestJet's culture.

• Profit Share
• Birthday parties
• New destination launches (Elvis on their first flight to Vegas)
• Incorporating family

Looks like FUN, sounds like FUN, but does it work?

YES! In fifteen short years WestJet has taken delivery of 94 Next Generation 737 aircraft, grown to 70 destinations in 13 countries, remained one of the most profitable airlines in the world, second in North America, launched WestJet Vacations and became a multiple award-winning airline.

WestJet succeeds because every single employee CARES.