WestJet Encore will connect Fredericton and Toronto in 2015

Calgary-based WestJet will start offering service between Fredericton and Toronto in April 2015, according to the Fredericton International Airport Authority.

The twice-daily service between Toronto and Fredericton will start on April 15, according to a statement released on Monday.

The flights will be operated by WestJet Encore, which is the company’s discount regional service, using a 78-seat, Bombardier Q400 NextGen aircraft.

Ferio Pugliese, WestJet’s executive vice-president and the president of WestJet Encore, said the Fredericton airport is the first Maritime destination for the regional carrier.

"We are very pleased to bring our low fares, high value and remarkable WestJet guest experience to the capital of New Brunswick for the first time, and we look forward to offering residents of Fredericton and the surrounding area the opportunity to take advantage of WestJet's growing domestic, transborder and international network,” Pugliese said in a statement.

“WestJet Encore's move eastward is part of a strategic plan to continue to liberate Canadians in smaller communities from the high cost of air travel, as WestJet has done throughout its 18-year history."

The company’s website says a one-way ticket from Fredericton to Toronto will cost $129.96, including the base fare and other taxes, fees and charges.

David Innes, the airport authority’s chief executive officer, said in a statement the Fredericton airport is pleased to be the first Maritime destination for WestJet Encore.

"Our region has tremendous vitality and access to WestJet service was identified by our passengers as a high priority during our community air access strategy discussions in 2013,” he said.

The addition of WestJet will “complement” the service that is already Air Canada, according to Innes.

“Combined, these two airlines will enhance the flying experience of both business and leisure travelers in and out of Fredericton, and at the same time strengthen the value of the Fredericton International Airport as an economic driver of the greater Fredericton region,” Innes said in a statement.

Innes said in 2012 that he was trying to attract WestJet to the New Brunswick capital city.

WestJet Encore began operating in 2013 and services smaller markets.