CALGARY, Alberta — August 27, 2025 — WestJet is deepening its foothold in the Mexican leisure travel market with the addition of a new seasonal route linking Calgary to Puerto Escondido, Mexico, set to launch December 12, 2025.
The weekly service will run through the winter, offering Canadian travelers direct access to the Pacific coast town in Oaxaca, renowned for its pristine beaches, surf culture, and authentic cuisine. With the announcement, WestJet now counts Puerto Escondido as its 15th nonstop Mexican destination from Calgary.
Expanding Winter Escapes
For Canadians facing long winters, Mexico has long been a favored escape. Puerto Escondido, once a hidden gem known mostly among surfers, has increasingly gained international attention for its vibrant culture and laid-back appeal.
“Adding Puerto Escondido to our network delivers on our promise to offer Canadians unforgettable, affordable vacations,” said John Weatherill, WestJet’s Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “This destination blends beautiful beaches, rich flavors, and Mexico’s warm, festive spirit, making it ideal for those swapping snow for sunshine.”
The addition underscores WestJet’s strategy of positioning Calgary International Airport as its primary hub for sun destinations. Puerto Escondido joins a roster of established markets including Cancún, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlán.
Strengthening Mexico Focus
WestJet’s growth in Mexico has been accelerating. Over the past year, the carrier added new flights to Guadalajara, Tepic (Riviera Nayarit), and Cozumel, while extending year-round service to Mexico City. These expansions have contributed to an 8% increase in overall seat capacity to sun destinations compared with last winter.
By leveraging both WestJet Vacations and its sister brand, Sunwing Vacations, the airline is aiming to provide customers with broader and more cost-effective packages. The move reflects heightened demand for flexible, budget-conscious travel options as Canadians look for accessible winter getaways.
Collaboration Behind the Launch
The new route to Puerto Escondido is the product of cross-border collaboration, particularly between WestJet, Mexican airport operators, and Calgary’s travel infrastructure partners.
“We’ve worked closely with WestJet to showcase Puerto Escondido’s unique charm,” said Javier Garcia Bejos, CEO of Aeropuertos Mexicanos. “This route taps into strong Canadian demand and boosts the town’s international appeal, opening doors for travelers to experience its magic.”
Airport authorities in Calgary have also voiced strong support for the initiative. “Travelers crave meaningful experiences, and Puerto Escondido delivers,” said Balázs Bogáts, Chief Commercial Officer at Calgary Airports. “This route adds warmth and cultural richness to our winter offerings, giving direct access to a dynamic coastal gem.”
Tourism and Market Strategy
For Puerto Escondido, the new air link represents an opportunity to expand its visibility on the North American tourism map. Once primarily a surfing hotspot centered around Zicatela Beach, the town has diversified its appeal with ecotourism, Oaxacan gastronomy, and local cultural festivals.
WestJet’s decision to expand its Mexico portfolio also aligns with broader travel industry trends. According to industry analysts, Mexico continues to be the top international destination for Canadians due to its relative proximity, affordability, and breadth of vacation offerings.
By anchoring itself more firmly in secondary destinations such as Tepic and Puerto Escondido, WestJet is signaling a strategy that goes beyond the most familiar resort towns and toward a more diverse leisure travel portfolio.
Looking Ahead
The Calgary–Puerto Escondido service is scheduled to operate weekly through the winter, beginning December 12. Industry observers say the move could set the stage for further expansion if demand proves strong.
For travelers, the new option offers a direct route into Oaxaca’s Pacific coast without requiring connections through Mexico City or other hubs. From surfing at world-famous breaks to sampling Oaxacan moles and seafood specialties, the destination is positioned as a versatile escape for Canadians looking for more than a beach chair and umbrella.
As Weatherill put it, the airline sees Puerto Escondido as emblematic of its evolving network priorities. “This destination blends beautiful beaches, rich flavors, and Mexico’s warm, festive spirit,” he said, “making it ideal for those swapping snow for sunshine.”
