The Cranky Flier Interview #33 - Porter EVP and Chief Commercial Officer Kevin Jackson
Jan 16, 2024
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Kevin Jackson, Chief Commercial Officer at Porter, talks about Porter's big expansion plans, growth during COVID-19, reasons for Ottawa being underserved, advantages of St. Hubert Airport, and the partnership between Porter and Air Transat.
Porter Airlines plans to expand its fleet and routes, aiming to build out its domestic trunk network and expand into US markets like LA and San Francisco.
Porter Airlines has entered into a joint venture with Air Transat to provide Canadians with more options for Trans-Atlantic travel, while maintaining its position as an all-economy carrier.
Deep dives
Porter Airlines Expanding Fleet with New Aircraft
During the podcast episode, Kevin Jackson, EVP and CCO at Porter Airlines, discusses the airline's plans to expand its fleet and routes. The airline recently placed an order for up to 100 Embraer 195E2 aircraft, solidifying growth plan number three. The order was made possible due to the availability of slots at Toronto Pearson Airport and aggressive deals offered by aircraft manufacturers during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the new aircraft, Porter Airlines plans to build out its domestic trunk network, connecting major cities in Canada, and expanding into US markets like LA and San Francisco. The growth plan also includes the development of St. Hubert Airport in Montreal as a domestic-only airport. Overall, Porter Airlines aims to offer Canadians a competitive option with a focus on domestic and North American routes.
Porter Airlines' Partnership with Air Transat
Another highlight of the podcast episode is Porter Airlines' joint venture with Air Transat. The two airlines have entered into a partnership where Porter Airlines will feed domestic and Trans-border passengers to Air Transat's Trans-Atlantic network. This collaboration allows Porter to focus on its domestic expansion while providing customers with more options for Trans-Atlantic travel. While Air Transat is known for its leisure-focused product, Porter Airlines maintains its position as an all-economy carrier, catering to both business and leisure travelers with its Porter Reserve premium economy offering. The joint venture aims to provide Canadians with competitive options for transatlantic flights.
Porter Airlines' Strategy and Market Position
The podcast episode also touches on Porter Airlines' unique position in the Canadian market. Porter Airlines has successfully positioned itself as the number two carrier in Eastern Canada, focusing on business travelers and SMEs. The airline has built a strong presence in markets served by its primary hub, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. With a strong base of corporate agreements and a successful network expansion beyond Billy Bishop, Porter Airlines aims to capitalize on its strengths in Eastern Canada. While other carriers are shifting their focus towards the West, Porter Airlines sees opportunities for growth in domestic Canada and North America. The airline is taking advantage of increased slot availability at Toronto Pearson Airport and developing alternative airports like St. Hubert in Montreal to provide more convenient options for travelers.
