The airline announced the news on Wednesday, saying that the service will start on October 31, 2022.

Flights will operate three times a week year-round. John Weatherill, WestJet's Executive Vice President and Director, said, "Although it is one of the largest international air travel markets in Winnipeg, there has been no continuous service between Winnipeg and LA, and we are very pleased to be the first to offer this service."

Weatherill pointed out that WestJet is happy to provide this service to Winnipeg because Los Angeles is the gateway to Southern California, and because Los Angeles International Airport is a hub for WestJet's largest partner, Delta Air Lines.

He said, "But perhaps more importantly, air services are a catalyst for economic development." "This new route connects Winnipeg to an area with nearly 20 million people."

Weatherill added that the new service will reduce travel time between the cities by approximately 50 percent for businesses, including those working in the film and television industry, helping to boost Manitoba's economy.

Weatherill noted that Wednesday's announcement was made possible thanks to the partnership between WestJet, the Winnipeg Airports Authority, Winnipeg Economic Development, and the Government of Manitoba. He said, "WestJet is proud to work in connecting communities, especially now."