WestJet is adding four new nonstop routes out of Halifax next year, calling the expansion a major investment in Nova Scotia’s role as an international gateway.
The airline announced new direct flights to Lisbon, Madrid and Copenhagen, along with new transborder service connecting Halifax and Detroit beginning in May 2026.
The additions bring WestJet’s total number of European routes from Halifax to nine.
“WestJet is proud to invest in Halifax and to help open Europe to Canadians, and Canada to the world,” said Samantha Taylor, the company’s Executive Vice President and Chief Experience Officer.
She said Halifax’s position on the Atlantic makes it “uniquely positioned to serve as Canada’s Atlantic gateway.”
The airline says the expansion aligns with its long-term strategy of growing in markets where it can “make a meaningful impact,” pointing to Halifax’s strong airport infrastructure and demand for leisure and business travel.
Flights to Lisbon begin May 1, Copenhagen on May 28, Madrid on May 15, and Detroit on May 18.
The Lisbon route remains subject to government approval.
Halifax International Airport Authority CEO Joyce Carter called the additions “great news for our region,” saying the routes reinforce Halifax Stanfield’s status as “North America’s most internationally connected airport of our size.”
She said more destinations mean more choice for travellers and more economic opportunity at home.
Nova Scotia’s Minister of Growth and Development, Colton LeBlanc, said the expansion will help the province reach new markets and attract visitors. “The new direct routes illustrate the airline’s acknowledgement that Nova Scotia is open for business, and our economy is taking off,” he said in the release.
Halifax Mayor Andy Fillmore said the new connections will support tourism and improve access to international markets. “These new routes will bring more visitors to Halifax, support our local economy and further position our city as a gateway to Atlantic Canada.”
WestJet will also resume service next summer on all their existing European destinations from Halifax, including Paris, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, Amsterdam, Dublin and Barcelona.
The airline says it will release its full summer 2026 schedule early next year.
