Low-cost carrier WestJet is to start flying from Toronto to Bermuda, the Premier announced yesterday.

The daily flight by the Canadian airline will begin in May next year — adding seat capacity and providing lower fares.

Exact ticket costs were not given however the budget airline typically charges 30 percent less than Air Canada, according to the Department of Tourism.

Round-trip flights between Bermuda and Toronto on Air Canada cost approximately $800. WestJet is to announce its costs and schedule in mid-December, after regulatory approval.

Premier Ewart Brown said: "For a long time, we have been searching for a Canadian airline that would introduce a low-cost service from Toronto to compete with the service that Air Canada has so commendably provided for generations.

"Canadian visitors to Bermuda and local residents travelling to Canada to visit friends and relatives or enrol in schools and universities will now have a choice in direct air service between Bermuda and Toronto, Canada's largest and best-known city."

He added: "Over the past year, one-way fares between Canada and Bermuda dropped 17 percent. At the same time, demand increased by the same 17 percent. That underscores what we all know: lower fares increase demand.

"Non-stop capacity between Bermuda and Canada has dropped 25 percent over the past three years. Conversely, demand has been steadily increasing during the same period, emphasising the need for additional seat capacity."

WestJet's executive vice president of strategy and planning Hugh Dunleavy said: "Bermuda is yet one more jewel in WestJet's Atlantic and Caribbean crown.

"We look forward to bringing Canadians to the home of pink sand beaches, gorgeous turquoise waters and world-class golf. For Bermudians, we are proud to offer non-stop service directly to friends and family in Toronto and throughout WestJet's 30-city Canadian network."