Toronto-based Porter Airlines (PD) looks to lure Westjet frequent fliers, as the airline has launched immediate access to its VIPorter loyalty program Avid Traveller membership​​​​​​. Porter's regular flyer members receive perks such as complimentary seat assignment, faster points accumulation, dedicated airport services, PorterClassic Stretch seats that offer extra legroom, and checked baggage travel flexibility, in addition to confirmed PorterReserve upgrade certificates.

The offer is in place for redemption until the end of May, and those interested can locate more information on the Porter Airline website.

Spurred by Westjet's focus on the west

As Westjet has refocussed its operations to predominantly Western Canada, Porter Airlines has been on an expansion spree, with the carrier doubling down on Ottawa and the maritime. The airline has acknowledged that loyal Westjet travelers should be recognized for their commitment. In return, Porter is offering them the opportunity to match their status with the Porter program.

As announced by the airline, travelers interested in matching their status with Porter will receive a trial VIPorter Avid Traveller membership for 120 days, potentially maintaining that level through December 31, 2024, and offered a reduced qualifying spend threshold.

Every dollar a traveler spends with Porter, excluding taxes and fees, will be applied to the total spend goal.

• VIPorter Venture - earn $750 in qualifying spend
• VIPorter Ascent - earn $1,500 in qualifying spend
• VIPorter First - earn $2,500 in qualifying spend

Porter's ambitious growth plans

With the airline's majority of services in the past passing solely through Toronto Island's Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ), post-pandemic, with the arrival of the Embraer E195-E2, has seen the carrier expand into Western Canada, now arriving at Vancouver, Edmonton, and Calgary for the first time.

Porter has also announced its intentions to increase operations on its new route to Prince Edward Island, with direct service to Ottawa from Charlottetown commencing in May. After introducing the new Ottawa-Charlottetown route, Porter will operate nine nonstop routes from Ottawa International Airport this summer. In June 2023, Porter Airlines will operate 170 weekly flights from this hub, including two international routes.

In addition to expansion across Canada, south of the border, the carrier already services Chicago, Boston, Newark, and Washington. However, with the E195 now on hand, we could see more of the likes of Denver, Las Vegas, Nashville, or Tampa be on offer soon.