Atlantic Canadians will soon have an exciting new travel option as WestJet Airlines unveils a new seasonal route connecting Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) to Barcelona, Spain’s Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). This anticipated service is set to launch on June 27, 2025, operating four times a week until September 29, 2025.
John Weatherill, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of WestJet, expressed enthusiasm about the new route’s potential: “This route is poised to become a favourite among those eager to explore Spain and beyond.” He emphasized how this direct service amplifies the airline’s extensive transatlantic schedule, catering to the rising demand for travel options from Canada’s East Coast.
With flights operating every week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, passengers will enjoy a non-stop connection that opens a gateway to one of Europe’s most captivating cities, famous for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history.
As part of its broader transatlantic expansion, WestJet is not only introducing flights to Barcelona but also reinstating popular routes to London, Dublin, and Edinburgh, while adding new services to Amsterdam and Paris. The addition of these routes reflects the airline's commitment to provide an improved travel experience and greater flexibility for Canadian travelers.
Marie Manning, Vice President of Business Development & Chief Commercial Officer at Halifax International Airport Authority, welcomed the launch, stating, “We are thrilled that WestJet will be launching the first-ever non-stop service connecting Halifax Stanfield to Spain.” She further underscored the significance of Barcelona’s inclusion in the airline's offerings, emphasizing its appeal to both Atlantic Canadians and international visitors. “This new service not only opens the door for Atlantic Canadians to explore Barcelona but also invites Spanish and international visitors to experience the beauty of our region,” she added.
This service is operated using Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, which can accommodate up to 174 passengers, including 12 in Premium and 162 in Economy class. WestJet is expected to operate more transatlantic flights from Halifax in the summer of 2025 than in any previous season due to this expansion.
WestJet, which began operations in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft serving five destinations, has significantly evolved over the years. Following its integration with Sunwing in 2025, the airline now boasts over 14,000 employees and operates nearly 200 aircraft, connecting travelers to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia.
This growth indicates WestJet’s successful adaptation to market demands and its dedication to expanding accessible travel options for Canadians, particularly those residing in Atlantic Canada. In 2025, the airline's most substantial transatlantic service will include connections not only to Barcelona but also to major destinations like Amsterdam and Paris, alongside the return of highly desirable services to London and Dublin.
Travelers from Halifax and surrounding areas are encouraged to take advantage of this direct service to Barcelona, which promises to make exploring Spain and its allure much easier. Whether you’re planning to admire the Sagrada Familia, wander through the Gothic Quarter, or enjoy the local cuisine, the new Halifax-Barcelona route presents an opportunity to immerse oneself in the Mediterranean atmosphere.
As this route debuts, it reflects a broader trend of airlines working to expand their international offerings in response to the growing interest in travel to Europe. With the Halifax-Barcelona connection, WestJet aims to provide a seamless travel experience filled with opportunities for adventure, exploration, and cultural exchange.
The full details of WestJet's summer 2025 schedule are readily available at the airline’s website, offering travelers clarity on when they can book their journeys across the Atlantic. This new direct service exemplifies WestJet’s ongoing commitment to enhancing travel accessibility and fostering global connectivity through expanded routes and destinations.
For Atlantic Canadians, the Halifax-Barcelona route is not only a means of getting to an exciting destination but also a chance to explore the diverse offerings within their own province upon returning. The route invites travelers to help forge new connections between cultures, landscapes, and experiences, as they take to the skies in summer 2025.
In summary, this new service between Halifax and Barcelona is a noteworthy advancement in international travel options for Atlantic Canadian residents, paving the way for unforgettable summer adventures in one of Europe’s most beloved cities.
