The Winnipeg airport will see two new direct international winter routes after WestJet confirmed service to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, and Belize City, Belize.
Details of the new winter schedule
WestJet said the new routes will operate from James Richardson International Airport (YWG) on a weekly basis during the upcoming winter season. The direct YWG–Punta Cana flight is scheduled to begin on Nov. 28, 2026, while the YWG–Belize City service is to start on Dec. 14, 2026. Separately, Sunwing Vacations — the leisure division associated with WestJet’s vacation offerings — will operate a distinct Punta Cana to Winnipeg route beginning on Nov. 4, 2026.
- Airline: WestJet (routes operated as part of its winter schedule)
- Airport: James Richardson International Airport (YWG), Winnipeg
- Frequency: Once weekly for each announced route
“Winnipeg Airports Authority is excited to see WestJet add even more opportunities for travellers to head somewhere warm this winter,” said Nick Hays, president and CEO of WAA.
What this means locally
The announced services create additional direct winter travel options for Winnipeg residents seeking sun destinations without connecting flights. For leisure travellers and families planning winter getaways, once-weekly flights provide a new option for point-to-point travel to two popular Caribbean destinations. For the airport and its partners, extra international frequency typically supports demand across related sectors such as ground transportation and tourist services, and may influence seasonal travel patterns.
WestJet’s move follows recent efforts by carriers to tailor schedules to leisure demand from regional airports. The airport authority framed the announcement as an expansion of connectivity that “matters to Manitobans,” in remarks included with the release.
Route summary
| Route | Operator | Start date | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winnipeg (YWG) – Punta Cana | WestJet | Nov. 28, 2026 | Once weekly |
| Winnipeg (YWG) – Belize City | WestJet | Dec. 14, 2026 | Once weekly |
| Punta Cana – Winnipeg (separate service) | Sunwing Vacations | Nov. 4, 2026 | Once weekly (Sunwing service) |
Passengers interested in these routes should watch airline schedules and the Winnipeg Airports Authority for booking details and any adjustments to flight frequencies. As with all seasonal services, continuation beyond the announced start dates will depend on demand and operational considerations announced by the carriers.
