New year brings NewLeaf

NewLeaf Travel, Canada’s first ultra-low-cost travel company, officially launched on Jan. 6, 2016, providing Canadians with greater affordability and new travel options, including unmatched airfares starting as low as $89 (inclusive of taxes).

NewLeaf announced non-stop routes, its initial flight schedule, and unveiled its exclusive online booking system. Customers can now book flights to seven Canadian destinations from coast to coast on the NewLeaf website, www.flynewleaf.ca. Initial departures start on Feb. 12, 2016, for non-stop flights to and from Hamilton, Halifax, Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon, Kelowna and Abbotsford.

Initial departures start on Feb. 12, 2016, for non-stop flights to and from Hamilton, Halifax, Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon, Kelowna and Abbotsford. NewLeaf Travel Image

“It’s a New Year, and we are happy to say 2016 is the year we officially bring affordable travel back to Canada!” said Jim Young, president and CEO, NewLeaf Travel Company. “Our business model, introductory fares and routes are all about making air travel possible for a greater number of Canadians seeking alternatives to the status quo. It’s great news for those who want to dive right into the ski season, visit loved ones or discover new destinations in an affordable way. NewLeaf customers can book online through flynewleaf.ca or by using our phone service. Our winter schedule runs until March 13, 2016, and new routes and destinations beyond that date will soon be announced at fantastic prices.”

As an ultra-low-cost travel company, NewLeaf aims to offer significantly lower base fares and will achieve this through cost-saving measures, including focusing on smaller airports and simpler point-to-point networks. “Most of our main routes feature non-stop flights that aren’t currently offered,” said Young. “The ultra-low-cost business model we’re using has proven successful around the world, and we’re excited to bring it to Canada.”

Media gathered on Wednesday at a NewLeaf press conference at Hamilton International Airport. NewLeaf Travel Photo

As part of the low-cost model, NewLeaf will enable customers to customize their travel experience by purchasing priority boarding, on-board snacks, carry-on and checked baggage.

Flights booked through NewLeaf will be operated by Flair Airlines Ltd., a Canadian-based airline with experienced crew and pilots that fly Boeing 737-400 aircraft. In business since 2003, Flair Airlines has an impeccable record of safety and service.