Tokyo-bound WestJet flight ends up back in Calgary due to mechanical issue

Air travel to the U.S. remains robust while land crossing declined in February, Statistics Canada says. (James MacDonald/Bloomberg)

WestJet passengers on a Friday flight from Calgary to Tokyo got a surprise when their flight ended up back in Calgary that night.

The airline confirmed Saturday morning that WestJet flight 80 “experienced a mechanical issue at cruising altitude,” resulting in the plane reversing course and returning to Calgary International Airport.

“Out of caution, the flight crew returned to Calgary where the flight landed safely and aircraft maintenance could be performed,” a WestJet spokesperson confirmed.

The spokesperson said the airline has since added two flights to accommodate all impacted guests.

One flight, WS4180, left Calgary at 1 p.m. Saturday for Narita Airport in Tokyo.

Monday, at 1430 JST (Japan Standard Time), WestJet flight 4182 departs Narita Airport for Calgary.

“We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused and look forward to getting our guests safely to their destinations as soon as possible,” a the spokesperson said in an email.

Tokyo flight diverted A screenshot of the route traveled by a WestJet bound for Tokyo that was forced to return to Calgary due to a mechanical issue. (Courtesy DJ Stewart)