Our #1 stock pick for 2010

Article Excerpt

WESTJET AIRLINES $13.45 (Toronto symbol WJA; SI Rating: Extra Risk) (1-877-493-7853; www.westjet.com; Shares outstanding: 138.8 million; Market cap: $1.9 billion; No dividends paid) has invested heavily in new planes and a state-of-the-art computer reservation system. But unlike most airlines, it has done so without taking on too much debt. That, plus its stellar reputation for customer service, makes it our Stock of the Year for 2010. WestJet serves 67 destinations in North America and the Caribbean. The company operates a fleet of 86 Boeing Next-Generation 737s. These planes feature more legroom, leather seats and television screens built into the back of each seat. But most important, the planes are roughly 30% more fuel efficient than older planes. And WestJet is scheduled to receive 49 additional 737s through 2016. In the three months ended September 30, 2009, revenue fell 16.4%, to $600.6 million from $718.4 million. Earnings fell 45.7%, to $31.4 million, or $0.24 a share, from $57.9 million, or $0.45. Cash flow…