CALGARY (CNW) -- WestJet today announced it will fly 54,254 guests today, setting a new single-day record for the airline. The previous record, set on February 26, 2012, saw 52,992 guests fly across the airline's network.

The new single-day record comes as Canadians enjoy an extended weekend in celebration of Easter.

"We're so pleased to see a record number of guests hopping on board today," said Bob Cummings, WestJet Executive Vice-President, Sales, Marketing and Guest Experience. "On behalf of more than 8,600 WestJetters, we're pleased to welcome guests to Canada's preferred airline. Wherever their travels take them, we wish them a wonderful holiday and look forward to welcoming them on board a WestJet flight again soon."

WestJet is Canada's preferred airline, offering scheduled service throughout its 76-city North American and Caribbean network. Inducted into Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures Hall of Fame and named one of Canada's best employers, WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. Named a J.D. Power 2011 Customer Service Champion, WestJet offers increased legroom and leather seats on its modern fleet of 98 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. With future confirmed deliveries for an additional 37 aircraft through 2018, WestJet strives to be one of the five most successful international airlines in the world.