WestJet introduces Tool Shed craft beer onboard Calgary flights starting July 15

WestJet is tapping into Calgary's craft beer scene by bringing Tool Shed Brewing Company’s beers onboard its flights operating out of the city. Beginning July 15, passengers flying with WestJet on routes that offer buy-on-board food and beverage service will have the option to select from three of Tool Shed’s flagship brews. This initiative reflects WestJet’s commitment to showcasing local products and providing a more regionally inspired in-flight experience.

The three beers available will be People Skills blonde ale, Golden Hour hazy pale ale, and another iconic brew from Tool Shed’s lineup. Each offers a unique flavor profile that Tool Shed fans and craft beer enthusiasts alike will appreciate. By only offering these beers on flights departing from Calgary, WestJet is playing to regional identity and taste preferences.

Tool Shed Brewing Company has earned a strong reputation in the Calgary craft beer market for its innovative and quality brews. Partnering with WestJet creates a new channel for the brewery to connect with customers, extending its reach beyond local pubs and liquor stores to the skies. This partnership also diversifies WestJet’s onboard beverage selection, giving customers authentic local options alongside more common choices.

WestJet’s decision to integrate a local brewery’s beers into their inflight offerings is part of a wider airline trend to localize and elevate onboard amenities. By tailoring beverages to origin cities, carriers enhance passenger satisfaction and differentiate their service. It further supports local businesses and aligns with consumer preferences for craft and artisanal foods and drinks.

Calgary has become a growing hub for craft beer innovation, and WestJet’s move signals recognition of this cultural shift within the city’s hospitality scene. Travelers flying in or out of Calgary can now enjoy a taste of the local craft culture at 35,000 feet, making their journeys more enjoyable and regionally authentic. WestJet is likely to monitor customer feedback closely to see if such partnerships might expand to other gateway cities.

Looking ahead, this collaboration between WestJet and Tool Shed Brewing Company may set a precedent for other carriers seeking to highlight local flavors on board. Given the positive reception craft products have seen in aviation, there is potential for similar partnerships elsewhere, contributing to a richer traveling experience and stronger local business ties.