WestJet unveils Disney themed 737

WestJet unveils Magic Plane WestJet and Disney are soaring to new heights with a new 737. Kevin Fleming reports.

The smiling face of Mickey Mouse is set to appear at airport terminals throughout Canada, following the unveiling of WestJet’s custom-painted Boeing Next-Generation 737, 800 series, aircraft.

The aircraft, known as the Magic Plane, is a symbol of the relationship between WestJet and Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, and features a large depiction of Mickey Mouse along the tail of the aircraft.

"Bringing this vision to life has been a true collaboration between our companies and it's so exciting to see the final result -- the aircraft is absolutely beautiful," said Marlie Morrison, Managing Director, Marketing & Sales, The Walt Disney Company (Canada) Ltd. "WestJetters are the first point of contact for many of our Walt Disney Worldguests embarking on their memorable family vacation.”

The inaugural flight of the Magic Plane is scheduled for December 3, when it will transport members of the Boys and Girls Club, WestJet volunteers, and chaperones, from Calgary to Orlando, for three days of fun at the Walt Disney World Resort.

"With the Magic Plane, we are soaring to new heights, offering guests of all ages the chance to share the skies with one of the world's most beloved and iconic figures,” said Gregg Saretsky, WestJet President and CEO. “We also look forward to having fun with our guests on the ground as they see the Magic Plane flying over their communities and at airports across our expanding network."

The custom paintjob required the effort of a crew of 26 people working for 24 days and the final product includes 36 different colours of paint.

Inside the cabin, the headrests of the seats are adorned with a magical star design and flight crews will distribute Disney character shaped cookies.

During the peak winter months, WestJet schedules 39 flights each week from Canadian airports to Orlando.