While the immediate operational costs to WestJet (and local law enforcement) are considerable, the unsettling spate of diversions and emergency evacuations is unlikely to have lasting consequences for the airline's lauded brand, analysts say — assuming the threats stop soon.
The airline is one of Canada's top-ranked brands and has amassed a loyal following
rarely seen in the aviation world. But some marketing experts say that a persistent "global paranoia" surrounding air disasters could cause problems for even a company as popular as WestJet.
"It's unfortunate for WestJet, but most passengers realize that in situations like this, the airline is a victim too," says Mike Boyd, president of the Colorado-based aviation consulting firm The Boyd Group.
