In October 2025, three major SkyTeam airlines—Delta, Korean Air, and Air France-KLM—completed a $550 million investment acquiring 25% of WestJet. This strategic partnership could reshape Canadian aviation and open new opportunities for cross-border travelers.
Three SkyTeam airline groups purchased equity stakes in WestJet from Onex Partners in a deal worth approximately $550 million:
The transaction closed on October 22, 2025, after being announced in May 2025. Onex Partners retains controlling ownership with 75% of WestJet.
This investment aligns with Delta’s proven strategy of acquiring equity stakes in key partner airlines. Delta owns shares in Air France-KLM, LATAM, Virgin Atlantic, and China Eastern.
Delta and WestJet previously pursued a transborder joint venture that was ultimately abandoned due to regulatory concessions. However, WestJet maintained “preferred partner” status with Delta, suggesting this investment was long-planned.
WestJet recently ordered additional Boeing 787-9s and 737 MAX 10s, signaling expansion plans. With backing from Delta, Korean Air, and Air France-KLM, expect:
While all three investing airlines are SkyTeam members, WestJet joining the alliance isn’t guaranteed. Delta’s track record shows mixed results:
The investment does position WestJet for closer SkyTeam collaboration without requiring formal alliance membership.
This partnership creates several opportunities for Canadian travelers, especially those frequently crossing the U.S.-Canada border:
While formal reciprocal benefits aren’t announced yet, the partnership could lead to:
Korean Air’s investment strengthens Canada-Asia connections, particularly important given WestJet’s existing Seoul route. Air France-KLM’s participation, while smaller at 2.3%, leverages CEO Ben Smith’s board position since 2021 and enhances European connectivity.
This investment significantly strengthens WestJet’s position against Air Canada’s Star Alliance dominance. The Canadian aviation landscape now shows clear alliance splits:
The investment completed on October 22, 2025, but operational changes will roll out gradually:
The $550 million investment by Delta, Korean Air, and Air France-KLM in WestJet represents a major shift in Canadian aviation. For travelers, this means better connectivity between Canada, the U.S., Europe, and Asia through coordinated schedules and expanded route networks.
While WestJet’s SkyTeam membership remains uncertain, the partnership positions the airline as a stronger competitor to Air Canada’s Star Alliance network. Canadian travelers, especially those frequently crossing borders or managing business between the U.S. and Canada, should benefit from enhanced options and potentially improved loyalty program reciprocity.
Source: WestJet Press Release, October 22, 2025
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