Canadian discount airline adds service between Phoenix area, Edmonton

PHOENIX — A new Canadian discount airline announced Thursday it was selling tickets for a route between the Phoenix area and Edmonton.

Just in time for winter visitors, Swoop will fly between Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and the capital of Alberta twice a week starting Oct. 27.

“We’re very excited to be the first Canadian ultra-low-cost carrier to come across the border and provide Canadians with the ability to come down and explore the Arizona region,” Swoop spokeswoman Karen McIsaac told KTAR News 92.3 FM.

Tickets for the leg to Mesa start at $119, and the trip back to Canada starts at $99. The routes are scheduled for Saturdays and Wednesdays.

The carrier offers unbundled travel, with base fares that cover just the seat. Add-ons such as assigned seating, extended legroom, snacks and checked or carry-on baggage are available for additional fees.

“We’re the only ultra-low-cost carrier at the moment to offer Wi-Fi and in-flight streaming, as well,” McIsaac said. “The in-flight entertainment option is something that differentiates our airline.”

Swoop is owned by WestJet Airlines and debuted last month with flights within Canada, serving five cities. The new airline has a fleet of Boeing 737 jets.

In addition to the Phoenix area, Swoop is adding three Florida destinations – Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando – as well as routes to Las Vegas.

KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Taylor Kinnerup contributed to this report.

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