Westjet is reporting that 18 of their airplanes were damaged by a hail storm that hit Calgary on Monday.
The Calgary-based airline says at the time of the storm they had 22 planes on the ground. Some of their fleet was put in hangers or diverted elsewhere but 16 sustained serious damage that has left them grounded until repair work can be completed.
Two other planes were also damaged but have since been cleared to fly again.
“As an airline that is proud to call Calgary our home, the extreme weather events that occurred on Monday evening had a disproportionate impact on our people, who experienced damage to their homes and vehicles; our fleet, and our partners at YYC Calgary International Airport” said Diederik Pen, WestJet Group, President of WestJet and Group Chief Operating Officer. “The severity and direction of the actual thunderstorm and hail became clear less than 30 minutes before impact, and we are extremely appreciative of our people who took quick action, prioritizing safety above all while limiting damage to our fleet and operation, wherever possible.”
In the fallout of the damage over 200 flights have been cancelled and WestJet anticipates further cancellations with their diminished fleet.
Total cancellations by day as of August 7
| Total cancellations | |
| Monday, August 5 | 58 |
| Tuesday, August 6 | 106 |
| Wednesday, August 7 | 84 |
The 16 planes that have been grounded represent about 10 per cent of Westjet’s fleet according to the airline.
WestJet is providing support to those with cancelled flights between August 5-8 details on which can be found on their travel advisory page.
Additionally, the airline is asking passengers with upcoming flights to check their status regularly as they anticipate further disruptions.
No timetable was provided on when the damaged planes will be fixed and Westjet indicated in a statement the decreased capacity will have an impact on their routes for the foreseeable future.
