United Airlines is stepping up its competition with WestJet by introducing a new service between Chicago and Edmonton. This move directly counters WestJet’s recent announcement of its Edmonton to Chicago route, set to launch in June 2025. Therefore, United Airlines aims to attract travelers by offering flights ahead of WestJet’s schedule.
WestJet recently revealed a network expansion, adding more flights to the United States and increasing its summer 2025 operations. Among these, the Edmonton-Chicago route gained attention, with thrice-weekly flights planned. However, WestJet’s schedule begins on June 4, 2025, while United Airlines plans to start similar flights by late May, giving it a slight edge.
Moreover, United Airlines has aligned its schedule closely with WestJet’s. For instance, the first flight from Chicago departs just minutes ahead of WestJet’s, ensuring competitive timings for travelers. Both airlines will operate flights on similar days, offering passengers more options. Additionally, United’s inaugural roundtrip fare starts at $436, including a carry-on bag, while WestJet’s fares begin at $246.19, though they exclude carry-on luggage.
Furthermore, data highlights WestJet’s strong presence on US-bound flights from Edmonton next summer, with over 70,000 seats available. Meanwhile, United Airlines plans to strengthen its position by adding Edmonton to its network. In July 2025, United will operate flights to eight Canadian cities, including Edmonton, Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary.
United Airlines’ introduction of this route intensifies competition between the two carriers. By launching flights earlier and offering similar schedules, United Airlines demonstrates its strategy to attract passengers and reinforce its North American connectivity. As travelers weigh their options, this battle promises greater choices and flexibility for those flying between Chicago and Edmonton.
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