WestJet has taken a major step in strengthening its global partnerships with the closing of a minority equity sale to Delta Air Lines, Korean Air and Air France-KLM.
The transaction, originally announced in May 2025 and discussed in detail at Open Jaw, was finalized today by Onex Partners and affiliated investors, who continue to hold a controlling 75% stake in the airline.
Under the terms of the agreements, Delta initially acquired a 15% minority equity stake from the Onex Group, with Korean Air taking an additional 10%. As part of the closing, Delta sold and transferred a 2.3% stake to its joint-venture partner Air France-KLM.
As a result, the final stakes are: Delta Air Lines 12.7%, Korean Air 10% and Air France-KLM 2.3%.
Tawfiq Popatia, Head of Onex Partners and WestJet board director, called the partnerships “a significant vote of confidence in WestJet’s strategy and team, building on a strong track record even through the pandemic.”
WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech said the move reflects the airline’s commitment to long-term value for guests. “We are proud to welcome our new airline shareholders and look forward to strengthening partnerships with their airlines,” he said.
For Canadian travel advisors, the transaction could translate into broader options and enhanced collaboration for clients.
With Delta, Korean Air, and Air France-KLM now connected as investors, WestJet is well-positioned to expand codeshare agreements, streamline interline bookings and offer more seamless travel across North America as well as Asia, and Europe.
As all three are members of the SkyTeam Alliance, these partnerships could also give WestJet guests easier access to the global SkyTeam network, enhancing connectivity and loyalty benefits worldwide.
