RDU added a new international destination and a new airline Monday when WestJet began nonstop service to Calgary International Airport (YYC). The low-cost Canadian carrier brings the number of airlines at RDU to a record 19.

“RDU is pleased to welcome WestJet to the Triangle region as we continue to offer flights to more cities than ever before,” said Michael Landguth, president and CEO of the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority. “WestJet’s service to Calgary offers travelers convenient access to the Rocky Mountains in Western Canada and easy connections to their network of international destinations.”

WestJet is the seventh airline to add new international service at RDU in the last year, following the launches of Air Canada to Vancouver, Lufthansa to Frankfurt, Copa Airlines to Panama City, Aeromexico to Mexico City, Avelo Airlines to Montego Bay and Punta Cana, and BermudAir to Bermuda.

“We’re pleased to add the Raleigh-Durham region to our network and provide travelers with a new option to access Calgary and the broader Western Canada region,” said Daniel Fajardo, WestJet Vice-President of Network and Schedule Planning. “This route supports our diversification in the U.S. market and strengthens connections for both business and leisure travelers.”

The Calgary route will operate seasonally out of Terminal 2 three days a week from June through October. Calgary International Airport is a preclearance airport, allowing travelers a faster and more convenient experience by clearing U.S. Customs, Immigration, and Agriculture inspection before they return to the United States.

Fast Facts:

Aircraft: Mix of a 737-800 NextGen and a 737-800 MAX with between 174 and 189 seats

Dates: June 9 – Oct. 13

Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Travel Time: Four hours, 55 minutes