WestJet Launches New Non-Stop Halifax to Amsterdam Service

Key Takeaways

• WestJet launched direct Halifax–Amsterdam flights on May 29, 2025, running seasonally until October 26, 2025.
• Up to six weekly flights use Boeing 737 MAX 8, offering quieter, fuel-efficient travel with KLM codeshare benefits.
• The route boosts Atlantic Canada-Europe connectivity, increasing transatlantic seat capacity by 97% from Nova Scotia.

WestJet Launches Direct Halifax–Amsterdam Flights: What It Means for Travelers, Businesses, and Atlantic Canada

WestJet has officially launched its new non-stop service between Halifax Stanfield International Airport and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, with the first flight departing Halifax on May 29, 2025. This marks the first direct air link in decades between Atlantic Canada and Amsterdam, opening up new opportunities for travelers, businesses, and the broader community. The seasonal service will run through October 26, 2025, with up to six flights per week during the peak summer months.

This development is more than just a new flight route—it represents a major step in reconnecting Atlantic Canada with Europe, boosting tourism, supporting local businesses, and making travel easier for thousands of people. Here’s what you need to know about the new WestJet Halifax–Amsterdam route, why it matters, and how it could affect your travel plans or business.

Key Facts: Who, What, When, Where, and Why

• Who: WestJet, one of Canada’s largest airlines, is operating the new route.
• What: Non-stop, direct flights between Halifax, Canada 🇨🇦 and Amsterdam, Netherlands 🇳🇱.
• When: The service started on May 29, 2025, and will run until October 26, 2025.
• Where: Flights depart from Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) and arrive at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS).
• Why: To improve international connectivity, boost tourism, support local businesses, and provide more travel options for both leisure and business passengers.

Route Details and Schedule

The new Halifax–Amsterdam route is operated by WestJet’s Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, known for being quieter and more fuel-efficient than older planes. The schedule is designed to match the busy summer travel season:

• Frequency: Up to six flights per week at the peak (June 9–September 14, 2025), starting with five weekly flights and then reducing to four per week in late September and October.
• Aircraft: Boeing 737 MAX 8, offering a quieter and more comfortable ride with lower emissions.
• Seasonality: The service is seasonal, running from late May to late October 2025.

Summary Table: WestJet Halifax–Amsterdam Route (Summer 2025)

Why This Route Matters: Stakeholder Perspectives

For Travelers

The new WestJet service between Halifax and Amsterdam means:

• Faster, Easier Travel: No more connecting flights through Toronto, Montreal, or other hubs. Passengers can fly directly from Atlantic Canada to Europe, saving time and hassle.
• More Choices: With WestJet’s codeshare agreement with KLM, travelers can connect to dozens of European cities beyond Amsterdam with a single check-in and through-checked baggage.
• Rewards: Passengers can earn WestJet Rewards points, and those connecting to KLM can also earn Flying Blue miles.

For Local Businesses and the Economy

• Tourism Boost: The direct link is expected to bring more European visitors to Atlantic Canada, supporting hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and other local businesses.
• Business Connections: Companies in Nova Scotia and the surrounding region will find it easier to connect with partners, clients, and suppliers in Europe, especially in the Netherlands 🇳🇱.
• Economic Growth: According to Jared Mikoch-Gerke, WestJet’s Director of Alliances and Airport Affairs, the route is a “vital investment that strengthens connectivity to Europe, furthering tourism and economic opportunities.”

For Airports and Regional Development

• Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA): Marie Manning, VP of Business Development & Chief Commercial Officer, described the route as a “connection between cultures, fostering economic growth and tourism in both regions.”
• Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: Patricia Vitalis, Executive Director of Operations, welcomed the use of quieter, cleaner aircraft, which fits Schiphol’s sustainability goals.

For Tourism Boards

• Discover Halifax: Ross Jefferson, President and CEO, said the route “strengthens our connection to Europe, making it easier for travelers to experience all that Halifax has to offer.”

How to Book and What to Expect

Booking a flight on the new Halifax–Amsterdam route is straightforward:

1. Booking: Visit WestJet’s official website or use a travel agent to book your ticket.
2. Check-in: You can check in online or at the airport. If you’re connecting to another European city with KLM, your bags can be checked through to your final destination.
3. Travel Documents: Make sure you have a valid passport. Depending on your nationality, you may also need a visa to enter the Netherlands 🇳🇱 or other European countries. For official visa information, visit the Government of Canada’s travel page.
4. Rewards: Collect WestJet Rewards points, and if you’re connecting with KLM, you may also earn Flying Blue miles.
5. Connections: Once you arrive in Amsterdam, you can connect to many other European cities with KLM and its SkyTeam partners.

Codeshare Benefits: Seamless European Connections

One of the biggest advantages of this new route is WestJet’s codeshare partnership with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. This means:

• Single Check-In: You can check in once for your entire journey, even if you’re connecting to another European city.
• Through-Checked Baggage: Your bags will be transferred automatically to your final destination.
• More Destinations: Amsterdam is a major hub, so you can easily reach cities like Paris, Rome, Berlin, and many more.

Market Impact and Competition

WestJet’s new Halifax–Amsterdam service is part of a larger push to rebuild its transatlantic network from Eastern Canada. Here’s how it fits into the bigger picture:

• Transatlantic Capacity: The route adds a 97% increase in WestJet’s transatlantic seat capacity from Nova Scotia compared to 2024.
• Market Share: In summer 2025, WestJet will offer over 844,000 two-way seats between Canada 🇨🇦 and Europe, making up 6% of the market. This puts WestJet behind Air Canada (40%), Air Transat (15.7%), and Air France (6.8%).
• Competition: The move increases competition on transatlantic routes, especially from Eastern Canada, challenging other airlines and giving travelers more choices.

Environmental Considerations

The Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft used on this route are among the quietest and most fuel-efficient in WestJet’s fleet. This is important for:

• Lower Emissions: The aircraft produces fewer greenhouse gases compared to older models.
• Less Noise: Quieter engines mean less noise pollution for communities near airports.
• Sustainability: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport encourages airlines to use cleaner, quieter planes, and this route fits that policy.

Historical Context: WestJet’s Transatlantic Strategy

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, WestJet operated several transatlantic routes from Halifax. However, in 2022, the airline shifted its focus to Calgary, suspending most Eastern Canada–Europe flights. The last WestJet service to Amsterdam was from Calgary in winter 2022–23, which ended in March 2023.

The new Halifax–Amsterdam route marks WestJet’s return to the Dutch capital and is part of a broader plan to rebuild Halifax as a key gateway to Europe. In summer 2025, WestJet will also offer flights from Halifax to Paris, Barcelona, Dublin, Edinburgh, and London Gatwick, making Halifax a major hub for transatlantic travel.

Implications for Stakeholders

Local Businesses

• Increased Visitors: Shops, restaurants, hotels, and attractions in Halifax and across Atlantic Canada can expect more European tourists.
• Economic Growth: More visitors mean more spending, supporting jobs and local economies.

Travelers

• More Direct Options: Passengers can fly straight to Europe without long layovers or extra connections.
• Convenience: The codeshare with KLM makes it easy to reach many European cities from Amsterdam.

Environmental Stakeholders

• Cleaner Flights: The use of Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft helps reduce the environmental impact of increased air travel.

Competing Airlines

• Greater Competition: WestJet’s expansion puts pressure on other airlines to improve their services and prices on transatlantic routes.

Step-by-Step Guide for Travelers

If you’re planning to use the new WestJet Halifax–Amsterdam route, here’s what you need to do:

1. Check Your Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned return date.
2. Check Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter the Netherlands 🇳🇱 or other European countries. Visit the official government visa page for up-to-date information.
3. Book Your Flight: Go to WestJet’s website or contact a travel agent.
4. Check-In: Use online check-in to save time at the airport.
5. Pack Smart: Remember that international flights have different baggage rules than domestic ones. Check WestJet’s baggage policy before you pack.
6. Arrive Early: International flights require extra time for security and customs. Arrive at least three hours before your flight.
7. Enjoy the Flight: Take advantage of in-flight entertainment, meals, and other amenities on the Boeing 737 MAX 8.
8. Connecting in Amsterdam: If you’re traveling beyond Amsterdam, follow the signs for connecting flights. Your bags will be transferred automatically if you’re on a codeshare ticket.

Looking Ahead: Future Developments

The new Halifax–Amsterdam route is currently seasonal, but strong demand could lead to year-round service in the future. WestJet’s 2025 summer schedule also includes new or restored routes from Halifax to Paris, Barcelona, Dublin, Edinburgh, and London Gatwick. This positions Halifax as a major transatlantic hub, with a total of 20 weekly flights to Europe during the peak summer season.

WestJet’s transatlantic seat capacity from Halifax is nearly doubling compared to 2024, showing the airline’s commitment to growing its presence in Atlantic Canada.

Official Resources and Contact Information

For the latest information on schedules, booking, and travel requirements, visit these official websites:

• WestJet: www.westjet.com
• Halifax Stanfield International Airport: www.halifaxstanfield.ca
• Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: www.schiphol.nl
• Government of Canada Travel Advice: travel.gc.ca

Expert and Industry Analysis

Aviation experts see the launch of the Halifax–Amsterdam route as a smart move by WestJet to restore and expand its transatlantic presence from Eastern Canada. This reverses the pandemic-era focus on Calgary as the main intercontinental hub and brings more options to travelers in Atlantic Canada.

Airport authorities in both Halifax and Amsterdam view the route as a key step in rebuilding international networks, with a focus on sustainability and economic impact. Regional tourism organizations expect increased European visitation, helping to offset the seasonal nature of tourism and diversify the visitor base.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, the new route is expected to have a positive impact on tourism, business, and regional growth, making Atlantic Canada more accessible to European travelers and supporting local economies.

Practical Takeaways

• Book Early: With increased demand expected, booking early can help you secure the best fares and preferred travel dates.
• Check Travel Requirements: Make sure you have all necessary documents, including passports and visas.
• Take Advantage of Codeshare Benefits: If you’re traveling beyond Amsterdam, book a codeshare ticket for seamless connections and baggage transfers.
• Support Local Businesses: If you’re visiting Atlantic Canada, explore local shops, restaurants, and attractions to support the community.

Conclusion

The launch of WestJet’s non-stop service between Halifax and Amsterdam is a landmark development for Atlantic Canada. It brings new opportunities for travelers, businesses, and the wider community, while also supporting economic growth and sustainability goals. Whether you’re planning a vacation, a business trip, or a visit to family and friends, this new route makes it easier than ever to connect Atlantic Canada with Europe.

For more information on booking, schedules, and travel updates, visit WestJet’s official website or contact their customer service. If you need information about travel documents or visas, check the Government of Canada’s travel page for the latest updates.

With more direct flights, easier connections, and a focus on sustainability, the WestJet Halifax–Amsterdam route is set to make a lasting impact on the region’s future.

Learn Today

Codeshare → An agreement where airlines share flights for seamless booking and baggage transfer.
Boeing 737 MAX 8 → A quieter, fuel-efficient aircraft used by WestJet for the Halifax–Amsterdam route.
Transatlantic → Crossing or spanning the Atlantic Ocean between Europe and North America.
Seasonal Service → Flight operations that occur only during specific months of the year, typically peak travel season.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines → Dutch airline partnering with WestJet for Europe-wide connectivity and codeshare benefits.

This Article in a Nutshell

WestJet’s new Halifax–Amsterdam flights restore direct Atlantic Canada to Europe travel after decades, offering faster service. Seasonal flights run May to October 2025, using fuel-efficient Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets, enhancing tourism, business ties, and sustainable travel between the regions with extended European connections via KLM codeshare.
— By VisaVerge.com