WestJet Changes To Bag & Seat Selection Fees Will See Some Pay More

Image: WestJet has placed a new order with Boeing for 42 737-10 aircraft plus options for 22 more. (Photo Credit: WestJet)
Image: WestJet has placed a new order with Boeing for 42 737-10 aircraft plus options for 22 more. (Photo Credit: WestJet)
Bruce Parkinson
by Bruce Parkinson
Last updated: 12:30 PM ET, Wed November 1, 2023

Effective November 7, WestJet is making changes to its checked baggage and seat selection fees, including additional charges for those checking bags or selecting seats while at the airport 

The goal of the changes is to encourage guests to prepay for their checked baggage and pre-select their seats at the time of booking or through the Manage Trips section in the WestJet app or on www.WestJet.com.

Here’s the bottom line on the adjustments:

WestJet Logo

WestJet Logo (Photo Credit: WestJet)

Changes to checked bag fees when checking-in with an airport agent

Effective November 7, first, second and excess bags paid via an airport agent will incur an additional $10 fee. This only applies to tickets purchased on or after November 7. Any guests with tickets purchased on November 6 or prior can self-identify with an agent to avoid the additional $10.

Changes to seat selection at check-in

Beginning on November 7, guests with Econo or EconoFlex fares will now pay a fee for seat selection during check-in if they choose a Preferred or Emergency Exit row seat. Preferred seats provide additional legroom and are located at the front of the economy cabin. Exit row seats provide additional legroom and provide guests with the opportunity to board earlier. 

There will be no change to Standard seats, which are still available to Econo and EconoFlex guests for no charge at check-in. There will also be no updates to Basic fares. Guests who purchase a Basic fare will be assigned a seat at check-in and if they choose to change their seat, a fee will be applied. Check-in begins 24 hours before the flight’s scheduled departure, at which time the additional seat-selection fees come into effect.

Impacts to top tier WestJet Reward members 

Starting November 7, those with Gold and Silver status will be required to redeem their advance seat selection vouchers prior to check-in if they wish to reserve a Preferred or Exit Row seat for no fee. Platinum members will continue to be able to select Preferred and Exit Row seats for no charge at check-in and prior to check-in, however, their guest seat selection vouchers will need to be redeemed prior to check-in to secure a Preferred or Exit Row seat for no fee.  

More information is available here.

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