WestJet to keep Air Miles link, mulls own program

April 2, 2008

CALGARY, Alberta, April 2 (Reuters) - WestJet Airlines Ltd. has renewed its partnership with the Air Miles rewards program, but remains intent on starting up its own frequent flier plan, Canada's No. 2 airline said on Wednesday.

The two organizations said their agreement means Air Miles points collectors will still be able to redeem miles for WestJet flights, something called into question in recent months as the airline weighed its options.

WestJet has been an Air Miles rewards supplier since 2000.

In an interview with the Globe and Mail newspaper in February, WestJet Chief Executive Sean Durfy said he may also end or rejig a deal with Bank of Montreal's Mosaik Mastercard, with which cardholders receive Air Miles.

"That is something we have said ... will change as we move forward, but what we've announced today is the component with Air Miles," WestJet Vice-President Richard Bartrem told Reuters.

The airline is targeting 2009 for its own loyalty program, Bartrem said.

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