WestJet provides assistance to Japan relief efforts

WestJet today announced in light of the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan, the airline is donating $25,000 to the Canadian Red Cross. WestJet has also challenged its employees to collectively beat WestJet's donation by giving to the relief organization of their choice.

"On behalf of our WestJet family I extend our sincere condolences to the people of Japan and those family and friends affected," said Gregg Saretsky, WestJet President and CEO. "This terrible human tragedy requires all of our help and we are responding corporately and at the employee level to assist."

WestJet is also designating the week of March 28, 2011 as Japan week. WestJet will collect spare change from its guests at all domestic airports across Canada with change boxes displayed at all WestJet domestic check-in counters.

"We hope that by asking our guests to participate in some smal manner we can collectively do our part," concluded Mr. Saretsky.

Conrad Sauvé, Secretary General and CEO, Canadian Red Cross commented, "We are grateful for the support from Canadian corporations like WestJet. We thank WestJet and its employees for their generous contributions in support of those impacted by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. This financial contribution will make a difference in day to day relief and recovery efforts."