The president and CEO of the Gander International Airport Authority calls it a blow for the airport, but not the worst news they could have received.

WestJet will now run a seasonal service out of Gander, leaving the airport over the winter months when fewer people are traveling.

Reg Wright says WestJet will leave Gander October 26, returning May 1, 2020 for next year’s busy travel season.

Wright calls it an important service, and one they had high hopes for.

Wright says in this case however, he fully understands. He says West Jet is making a decision that is in the best interest of the company.

Wright says the worst news they could have received was that West Jet was leaving for good. Wright says the opportunity is always there for them to reintroduce a year-long service is the demand is there.