Flair cited an intense focus on the Abbotsford-Edmonton route by its competitor Swoop — a subsidiary of WestJet — resulting in a glut of cheap tickets.

WestJet chief executive Ed Sims says the grounding of the Boeing 737 Max is having a "substantial negative impact" on the airline, even as the company reported robust earnings in first quarter of 2019.

The low-cost carrier will fly twice a week from Hamilton to Puerto Vallarta, and three times each week to Cancun.

Flair Airlines chief executive Jim Scott says predatory pricing and scheduling by rival WestJet Airlines Ltd. placed his budget carrier in jeopardy, as a "David and Goliath'' battle over the past six months has culminated in an investigation by Canada's competition watchdog.

WestJet's new low-cost carrier has added a new route to connect the Prairies' second- and third-largest cities, Edmonton and Winnipeg.

Nearly a week after launching ticket sales for its ultra-low-cost carrier Swoop, WestJet Airlines says it hasn't lost business at its main airline, suggesting it has found a new market of infrequent flyers.

Swoop, Canada's newest ultra-low cost airline, will have more seats per plane, less legroom, and extra costs for things like snacks, checked baggage, and in-flight entertainment.