WestJet adding two new direct flights from Winnipeg to warm-weather destinations

Manitobans planning a trip to a warm destination this winter have direct access to two more options.

WestJet announced on Monday it will launch non-stop routes between Winnipeg and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, and between Winnipeg and Belize City, Belize. Each will be offered once a week, starting on Nov. 28 and Dec 14, respectively.

The Alberta-based airline did not respond to an interview request. In a news release, John Weatherill, executive vice-president and chief commercial officer, said the new routes support the growing demand for Latin Caribbean options.

“We are excited to offer more ways for guests to trade their snow boots for sandals in the destinations that matter most to them, and we look forward to the travel stories that will take off from these exciting new options,” he said.

Nick Hays, president and CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority, was not available for an interview Monday. In the release, he applauded WestJet’s new direct routes.

“We are dedicated to offering more flights to places that matter to Manitobans, and we value WestJet’s partnership in bringing more connectivity to YWG,” Hays said.

“More ways for guests to trade their snow boots for sandals”

Located in the easternmost region of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana is a resort town offering white-sand shores and clear waters. In addition to swimming, snorkeling and catamaran excursions, the town offers an amusement park with 15 attractions.

Canada is one of the Dominican Republic’s most important international tourism markets, according to the country’s ministry of tourism. In 2025, more than 1.1 million Canadians visitors accounted for 13 per cent of the country’s total international arrivals.

More than 6,700 flights operated across 29 routes from Canada to the island country.

Meanwhile, Belize City is the main port and largest city in Belize. The city offers access to natural and historical attractions, including the Belize Barrier Reef and ancient Mayan ruins.

Belize has become one of the Caribbean’s fastest-growing tourism markets in recent years, according to a report from The Associated Press. The Central American country welcomed more than 1.4 million visitors in 2024 — the highest number in its history.

WestJet’s new Winnipeg-Belize City service is a “strong signal of confidence” in its continued growth, Anthony Mahler, Belize minister of tourism, said in the release.

“Greater air access is the cornerstone of tourism growth, and we are excited to welcome more Canadian travellers to discover Belize’s vibrant culture and our legendary reef-to-rainforest experiences,” Mahler said.

During the peak winter travel season, WestJet will serve 50 sun destinations from 15 Canadian cities — more than any other airline in Canada, the company announced.

WestJet is also planning on growing capacity on its most popular routes. The airline will announce details in the coming weeks.

aaron.epp@freepress.mb.ca