WESTJET Cargo has confirmed plans to discontinue freighter operations and news that executive vice president Kirsten de Bruijn will leave the airline later this year.

The Canadian airline told London's Air Cargo News that its dedicated freighter operations were no longer part of the wider group's core strategy.

It currently has two converted Boeing 737-800 converted freighters in operation while another two are in storage.

"WestJet continues to explore various opportunities for these aircraft," the airline said.

"WestJet Cargo's focus remains on optimising WestJet's belly capacity of its entire passenger fleet, which continues to provide a reliable and sustainable solution in global airfreight."

The airline took delivery of its first freighter in April 2022 but was not able to put the aircraft into service until a year later due to the time it took for Boeing to gain approval from Canadian authorities for its conversion programme.

Then last year, the carrier decided to put two of its four freighters into storage due to tough market conditions.

Meanwhile, WestJet Cargo also confirmed that Ms de Bruijn has decided to depart the company in June.

WestJet Cargo chief executive Alexis von Hoensbroech said in a LinkedIn post: "We have seen significant growth and success in our cargo business thanks to Kirsten's expertise and leadership.

"She was instrumental in building and growing a high-performing cargo organization capable of succeeding within a rapidly evolving market."