WestJet Airlines has secured its first interline agreement with a US-based partner, linking up with American Airlines.

The deal means customers travelling to Canada and transferring to WestJet flights can purchase a single ticket and check bags through to their final destination, as the Calgary-based carrier seeks to expand its presence in the recovering US market.

The agreement provides American’s customers seamless connecting service to 25 new Canadian cities not currently served by American or American Eagle.

WestJet serves a total of 31 Canadian cities and 71 destinations in 13 countries.

“This agreement represents WestJet’s first interline with a US carrier and we are excited to be working with such a well-established and recognised global airline like American Airlines,” said Hugh Dunleavy, WestJet’s executive vice-president, strategy and planning.

“We look forward to welcoming the many American customers on board our aircraft as guests who will experience WestJet’s world-class guest experience.”

Canadian Connections

Connections will first be available through the six gateways in Canada currently served by American or American Eagle - Toronto, Montreal, Calgary, Vancouver, Halifax and Ottawa.

American and WestJet expect to implement a second phase of their interline relationship in December which will see additional connecting opportunities through WestJet’s non-stop US flights to Canadian cities.

“American’s interline agreement with WestJet complements our North American network and greatly benefits our customers by offering additional connections to and from new Canadian markets,” said Virasb Vahidi, American’s chief commercial officer.

“WestJet offers a high-quality on-board product that our customers will enjoy.”

Earlier this month Air Canada signed a similar agreement with newly created United Continental Holdings.