WestJet suspends direct flights from Winnipeg to Atlanta and Nashville due to a significant drop in cross-border travel demand throughout 2025. Julia Kaiser, a WestJet spokesperson, noted in a statement that the airline detects no signs of this trend reversing soon, prompting these route changes.
Route History and Recent Adjustments
The airline launched direct Winnipeg-Atlanta service in 2023 and added Nashville in 2024. Frequencies to Atlanta had already dropped from five weekly flights to two before this full suspension. WestJet halted Winnipeg-Los Angeles flights in June 2025 after a $4.8-million provincial subsidy fund for those routes depleted without renewal.
Beyond Atlanta and Nashville, WestJet plans a seasonal pause on Winnipeg-Orlando flights. Meanwhile, the carrier boosts Las Vegas-Winnipeg services modestly this summer over last year’s levels.
Airport Insights on Travel Shifts
Kerilee Falloon, communications director at Winnipeg’s Richardson International Airport, reports U.S. tariffs exert a minimal yet consistent effect, with an eight percent decline in U.S.-bound travel. Airlines redirect investments to popular non-U.S. routes, such as new service to Costa Rica and a direct flight to Iceland launching in July.
Falloon emphasizes options remain for southbound travelers via connecting flights from Winnipeg to various U.S. cities.
Economic and Tourism Perspectives
Ryan Kuffner, president and CEO of Winnipeg Economic Development & Tourism, highlights direct air links as vital for tourism, business, and growth. He views rising domestic travel preferences as a chance to draw more Canadian visitors. His team collaborates with airport authorities to ensure lasting connectivity.
Personal Impact on Travelers
Leanne Pearson, a songwriter and musician who left Manitoba for Nashville a decade ago, frequently flies home to see family. She welcomed the direct Nashville route but feels disappointed by its end. Pearson recalls packed flights, especially for Winnipeg Jets vs. Nashville Predators NHL games or Tennessee Titans NFL matchups.
“The flights that I was on were quite full,” she said. “Especially with the Jets and the Preds and the Titans games, I’m very shocked. I’m sure they have their reasons.”
The service eased visits from family and friends and supported musicians heading to Manitoba festivals or Nashville gigs. “I was on the flight where everybody was flying in for Dauphin’s Countryfest,” Pearson added. Now, longer trips ahead leave her disheartened: “My heart just kind of drops a little bit.”
