WestJet

From its humble beginnings in Western Canada to becoming a global connector, WestJet has redefined the air travel experience. Distinguished by its teal-branded aircraft and a corporate culture where employees are often owners, the airline has grown from a regional low-cost carrier into one of the most significant aviation players in North America. Travelers choosing this airline can expect a friendly, "care-from-the-heart" service philosophy that permeates every aspect of the journey, whether hopping between Canadian provinces or flying internationally.

Established in 1996, the company is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, which also serves as its primary hub. Operating under the IATA code WS and ICAO code WJA, the airline has expanded impressively from its original three aircraft to a modern fleet of approximately 180 aircraft. With a network that now spans over 100 destinations, it provides essential connectivity across the continent, maintaining a strong reputation for safety and value.

The carrier's route map is designed to facilitate seamless travel between key economic and tourism centers. Frequent flights connect the main hub with major cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Edmonton. The network also serves regional communities such as Kelowna and Victoria, ensuring they are linked to the broader global grid. Beyond domestic borders, the airline operates popular transborder routes to United States hubs including Seattle, Detroit, and New York City.

The airline's fleet strategy focuses on efficiency and passenger comfort. The backbone of its domestic and transborder operations is the Boeing 737 series, known for reliability. For shorter regional hops, subsidiary WestJet Encore utilizes Bombardier Q400 turboprops to serve smaller communities. Elevating the long-haul experience, the addition of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner introduces a premium business cabin and enhanced amenities, offering passengers a comfortable journey on international routes.

Contact Information for WestJet in the United Arab Emirates

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, WestJet primarily handles inquiries through its international customer support channels and digital platforms. As the airline does not operate a dedicated local call center in the region, the most direct way to receive assistance is by calling their international support line or managing your booking online.

Official Website: www.westjet.com

Customer Support & Booking

• Official Website: www.westjet.com
• International Customer Service: +1-403-444-2481 (Standard long-distance charges may apply)
• Ticket Booking: +1-403-444-2481
• Mobile App: WestJet App (Available on App Store and Google Play)
• Note: Phone support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Since this is a Canadian number, please consider your local provider's international calling rates.

Social Media Connections

For quick updates or minor inquiries, you can reach out to WestJet's support team via their official social media channels:

• Facebook: facebook.com/westjet
• X (Twitter): @WestJet
• Instagram: instagram.com/westjet

Local Offices in the United Arab Emirates

• Regional Presence: Currently, WestJet does not maintain a public walk-in office or a dedicated airport ticket counter in the United Arab Emirates.
• Service Tip: For flights booked as part of a codeshare agreement (e.g., with Emirates), simple inquiries can sometimes be handled by the operating carrier at the airport, but ticket changes usually require contacting WestJet directly.

Emergency & 24/7 Support

• 24/7 Support Line: +1-403-444-2481
• Special Assistance: For accessibility services, it is recommended to call at least 48 hours before your flight.

Baggage Policy Overview

Preparing for your flight with WestJet involves knowing what you can bring onboard and what needs to be checked. The airline's baggage policy is designed to offer flexibility, with allowances often depending on the fare bundle purchased and your destination. Whether you are heading to the slopes via Calgary or connecting through Toronto, understanding these rules will ensure a smoother journey through the airport.

Carry-on Baggage Allowances

WestJet allows every guest to bring two specific items on board free of charge, regardless of the fare class. To ensure safety and comfort for all passengers, these items must fit into the sizing devices located at the check-in counters and gates.

• One Carry-on Bag: This bag must not exceed the maximum dimensions of 53 cm x 38 cm x 23 cm (21 in x 15 in x 9 in). It should be light enough for you to place in the overhead bin unassisted. Examples include a small suitcase or a duffel bag.
• One Personal Item: This smaller item must fit underneath the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions are 41 cm x 33 cm x 15 cm (16 in x 13 in x 6 in). Common examples include a purse, laptop bag, small backpack, or briefcase.
• Important Note: A diaper bag (if traveling with an infant) is permitted in addition to the standard allowance. However, duty-free purchases must fit within your carry-on or personal item limits, or they may be counted as an extra piece.

Checked Baggage Limits

Checked baggage allowances vary significantly based on the ticket type (fare bundle) and loyalty status. Generally, the standard weight limit for a single checked bag is 23 kg (50 lbs), and the maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) are 157 cm (62 in).

• Basic and Econo Fares: Typically do not include a checked bag. Guests traveling on these fares usually pay a fee for their first and second bags. It is highly recommended to prepay for baggage online up to 24 hours before departure to secure the best rate.
• EconoFlex: Usually includes the first checked bag free of charge.
• Premium and Business: These premium cabins generally come with a generous allowance of two checked bags.
• WestJet Rewards Members: Gold and Platinum members may be eligible for additional free baggage allowances.

Excess and Overweight Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the standard weight or size limits, additional fees will apply. It is often more cost-effective to pack an extra bag than to pay for an overweight one, depending on the specific overage.

• Overweight Fees: Applied to bags weighing between 23 kg (51 lbs) and 45 kg (100 lbs). Bags weighing more than 45 kg are generally not accepted as checked luggage and must be shipped as cargo.
• Oversize Fees: Applied to items with combined dimensions between 158 cm (63 in) and 203 cm (80 in).
• Note: If a bag is both overweight and oversized, both fees will typically apply.

Special Items: Sports Equipment and Instruments

WestJet is accustomed to transporting adventure gear, especially given its extensive network near the Canadian Rockies.

• Sports Equipment: Items like golf clubs, skis, snowboards, and bicycles are accepted. In many cases, they count towards your standard checked baggage allowance. However, if the item is overweight or oversized (like a bicycle), a handling fee may apply. Bicycles usually require specific packaging, such as a hard-shell container or a bike box with handlebars fixed sideways.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be brought on board as your carry-on item if they fit in the overhead bin. For larger instruments like cellos or guitars, guests can either check them (subject to baggage fees and hard-case requirements) or purchase an extra seat to keep the instrument in the cabin.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Safety regulations strictly control what can be carried on an aircraft. Always check the latest lists before packing.

• Batteries: Spare lithium batteries must be packed in carry-on luggage only and are prohibited in checked bags due to fire risk.
• Liquids and Gels: In carry-on bags, liquids must be in containers of 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less and fit into a single clear, resealable 1-liter plastic bag. Larger quantities must be checked.
• Cannabis: While cannabis is legal within Canada, it is illegal to transport it across international borders. Do not attempt to fly with it on international routes, even to places where it might be legal locally.
• Camping Gear: Camping stoves and fuel containers must be completely drained and free of fuel residue to be accepted in checked luggage.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To make your trip smoother and avoid unexpected costs, consider these packing strategies:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale at home to ensure your bag stays under the 23 kg limit.
• Bundle Your Fare: If you know you will be bringing a lot of luggage, compare the cost of an "Econo" fare plus bag fees against an "EconoFlex" or "Premium" fare; the upgrade might cost less than the separate baggage charges.
• Identify Your Bag: Place a tag with your name, phone number, and email inside your bag as well as outside. This helps in case the external tag gets ripped off.
• Keep Valuables Close: Never pack medication, car keys, jewelry, or important documents in your checked luggage. Always keep these in your personal item.

WestJet welcomes furry, feathered, and small companions to join their owners on their journeys. Whether you are flying within Canada or traveling internationally, the airline provides specific options to ensure pets travel safely and comfortably. It is essential to book your pet's space as early as possible, as there is a limited number of animals allowed on each flight.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small pets that can fit comfortably in a carrier underneath the seat in front of you may travel in the cabin. This option is available for cats, small dogs, and birds, provided they remain in their carrier for the entire flight.

• Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size is 41 cm x 21.5 cm x 25.4 cm (16 in x 8.5 in x 10 in). Soft-sided carriers are highly recommended as they fit better under varying seat configurations.
• Pet Requirements: The animal must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally inside the carrier.
• Allowed Pets: primarily cats, dogs, and household birds (restrictions apply to certain species like rabbits on some routes).
• Limit: One pet carrier is permitted per passenger, and it counts as your personal carry-on item.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Pets that are too large for the cabin but meet the weight limits can travel in the pressurized and temperature-controlled baggage hold. This service is available for cats, dogs, guinea pigs, and hedgehogs on select aircraft.

• Container Requirements: Must be a hard-sided, airline-approved kennel with secure fasteners (nuts and bolts) and adequate ventilation on all four sides.
• Weight Limits: The combined weight of the pet and kennel must not exceed 45 kg (100 lbs).
• Size Limits: Maximum kennel dimensions are approx. 101 cm L x 68 cm W x 81 cm H (40 in x 27 in x 32 in).
• Restrictions: Travel is not permitted during the winter holiday moratorium (typically mid-December to early January) or if extreme temperatures are forecast at any point in the journey.

As Cargo (WestJet Cargo)

For very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or specific breeds restricted from checked baggage, travel must be arranged through the cargo department. This option allows for a wider range of kennel sizes and specialized handling.

• When Required: For pets and kennels weighing over 45 kg (100 lbs) or for "strong breeds" requiring reinforced crates.
• Booking: Must be arranged separately through the airline's cargo division, not via standard passenger reservations.

Required Documentation

To avoid delays at the airport, ensure you have all necessary paperwork ready before you travel:

• Veterinary Health Certificate: Often required for international travel, typically issued within 10 days of the flight.
• Proof of Vaccination: Up-to-date rabies vaccination certificate is mandatory for most destinations.
• Import Permits: Required for many international destinations; specific rules depend on the country of arrival.
• Live Animal Handling Declaration: A form provided by the airline at check-in for pets traveling in the hold.

Service Costs

Fees are charged per direction and vary based on your destination. These are estimated ranges:

• In-Cabin Fee: Approximately $50–$60 CAD/USD for domestic flights; $100–$120 CAD/USD for international flights.
• Checked Baggage Fee: Approximately $100–$120 CAD/USD for domestic; $200–$240 CAD/USD for international flights.
• Note: Fees are subject to applicable taxes and may change without notice.

Preparation Tips

• Acclimatization: Let your pet get used to their carrier or kennel several days or weeks before the trip to reduce anxiety.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal 4 to 6 hours before departure; do not leave food or full water bowls inside the carrier to prevent spills.
• Identification: Attach a label with your name, phone number, and flight details to the outside of the kennel.
• Check-in: Arrive at the airport early (at least 30 minutes before the recommended check-in time) to allow for document verification.

Restrictions

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Snub-nosed dogs and cats (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persians) are often restricted from the checked baggage hold due to respiratory risks and may need to travel via Cargo or in the cabin if small enough.
• Prohibited Animals: Certain aggressive dog breeds or "strong breeds" may be banned or require reinforced crates (CR-82).
• Holiday Embargoes: Pets are generally not accepted as checked baggage during peak holiday travel periods (e.g., mid-December to early January).
• Age Limit: Pets must typically be at least 8 weeks old to travel.

Important: Pet policies, fees, and breed restrictions can change. We strongly recommend contacting WestJet directly or visiting their official website to confirm the latest rules for your specific itinerary before booking.

Loyalty Program: WestJet Rewards

The WestJet Rewards program is designed to be as straightforward and transparent as the airline itself. Unlike traditional mileage programs that can be confusing to calculate, this program operates on a simple premise: you earn WestJet dollars (WSD), which function like cash towards future travel. One WestJet dollar is equivalent to one Canadian dollar, making it easy for travelers to understand exactly how much value they have accumulated for their next trip to Calgary or beyond.

Membership Tiers

The program features four distinct tiers, with status determined by your annual "qualifying spend" on base fares for flights and vacation packages. Moving up the ladder unlocks progressively valuable travel perks.

• Teal: The entry-level status where members start earning WestJet dollars on eligible base fares immediately upon joining.
• Silver: Unlocks benefits like free first checked bags, airport lounge vouchers, and priority check-in services.
• Gold: Offers higher earning rates, two free checked bags, priority boarding, and unlimited lounge access for the member.
• Platinum: The top tier providing the highest earn rates, advance seat selection, and complimentary upgrades when available.

Earning WestJet Dollars

Accumulating rewards is designed to be seamless, with multiple avenues to build your balance for your next getaway.

• Flights: Members earn a percentage of the base fare back in WestJet dollars on every eligible flight flown.
• Vacation Packages: A portion of the total price of WestJet Vacations packages is credited back to your account.
• Car Rentals & Hotels: Earn additional rewards by booking ground transportation and accommodation through partner providers.
• Credit Cards: Holders of the RBC WestJet Mastercard can earn rewards on everyday purchases like groceries and gas.
• Partner Airlines: Select partner flights booked via WestJet also contribute to your qualifying spend and rewards balance.

Redeeming Your Rewards

One of the program's strongest selling points is the lack of restrictive barriers often found in other loyalty schemes.

• No Blackout Dates: You can use your WestJet dollars on any flight, at any time, with no date restrictions.
• Any Seat: If a seat is available for sale, you can pay for it using your rewards balance.
• Partial Payment: You can pay for a flight using a combination of WestJet dollars and a credit card.
• Vacation Packages: Rewards can be applied to reduce the cost of complete holiday packages, not just airfare.

Airline Partnerships

While WestJet is not a member of a major global alliance like Star Alliance or oneworld, it has cultivated a robust network of codeshare and interline partners to extend its global reach.

• Key Partners: Major partnerships include Delta Air Lines, Air France, KLM, and Qantas, allowing for seamless connections.
• Reciprocal Benefits: Top-tier members may enjoy lounge access and priority services when flying with specific partners like Delta.
• Global Reach: These partnerships allow travelers to book single-ticket itineraries to destinations far beyond WestJet's own network.

How to Join

Becoming a member is quick, free, and purely digital, requiring no physical card.

• Sign Up: Create an account instantly by visiting the official website or downloading the mobile app.
• Digital ID: Your WestJet Rewards ID is available immediately within the app for use on bookings.
• Link Bookings: Always add your 9-digit WestJet Rewards ID when booking to ensure your spend is tracked.

Services and Onboard Experience

Flying with WestJet is designed to be a comfortable and accommodating experience, tailored to the length of your journey and your budget. The airline distinguishes itself with a friendly service culture and a cabin environment that blends value with modern amenities. Whether you are taking a short hop between provinces or a long-haul flight to Europe, the airline offers distinct cabin classes to suit different travel needs.

Cabin Classes and Seating

The onboard experience varies significantly depending on the aircraft type, particularly between the standard Boeing 737 fleet used for domestic and transborder routes, and the Boeing 787 Dreamliners used for international service.

• Business Cabin: Available exclusively on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, this premium class rivals the world's best. Passengers enjoy private pods with fully lie-flat seats, direct aisle access, and luxurious bedding. The experience includes elevated dining, premium beverages, and amenity kits, ensuring you arrive at your destination rested and refreshed.
• Premium Cabin: Designed for comfort and convenience, this cabin is available on almost all flights. On the Dreamliner, it features wider seats with extra recline in a separate cabin. On Boeing 737 aircraft, the Premium experience is defined by a dedicated 2x2 seating configuration, offering wider seats and generous legroom without a middle seat. Guests in this cabin also benefit from priority boarding and complimentary food and drinks.
• Economy Cabin: The standard cabin offers a balance of value and comfort. Seats are equipped with leather upholstery and adjustable headrests. On the Dreamliner, guests also benefit from complimentary hot meals and beverages, pillows, and blankets.

In-Flight Entertainment and Wi-Fi

Staying entertained is easy with the WestJet Connect system, though the delivery method depends on your aircraft. On the majority of the fleet (Boeing 737s), the airline utilizes a "bring your own device" model. Travelers can stream hundreds of hours of free movies and TV shows directly to their smartphones, tablets, or laptops via the WestJet app. It is highly recommended to download the app before you fly.

For those flying on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, every seat features a personal high-definition seatback touchscreen monitor with an extensive library of entertainment. Additionally, Wi-Fi is available for purchase on nearly all aircraft, allowing you to stay connected with work or family while cruising at 30,000 feet.

Dining and Beverages

Culinary offerings on board are tailored to the flight duration and destination. On domestic flights within Canada or transborder trips to cities like New York City, passengers in the Economy cabin receive a complimentary snack and non-alcoholic beverage. For more substantial hunger, the Bistro menu offers a selection of fresh meals and snacks for purchase.

On international flights operating on the Dreamliner, the service is inclusive. Economy passengers receive a complimentary hot meal, along with wine, beer, and spirits. Premium and Business cabins feature chef-curated menus served on real dinnerware, elevating the dining experience to restaurant standards.

Special Services and Accessibility

WestJet is committed to making air travel accessible to everyone. The airline provides a range of special services for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance, pre-boarding, and seating accommodations. These requests should be made at least 48 hours in advance to ensure a seamless experience.

For families traveling with children, the airline offers a welcoming environment. Infants under two years old can travel on a parent's lap free of charge within Canada. Flight attendants are generally helpful with warming bottles, and the entertainment system includes a dedicated section for kids, keeping young travelers occupied during flights to hubs like Calgary or Toronto.

Popular Routes and Destinations

WestJet operates a vast and efficient network primarily centered around its main hub in Calgary, facilitating seamless travel across Canada and into the United States. While the airline focuses on connecting North American cities, its comprehensive schedule ensures that travelers arriving from international locations can easily reach major economic centers and tourism hotspots throughout the region.

Planning a trip with WestJet can be a seamless experience if you know when and how to book your tickets. To secure the most attractive fares, it is generally advisable to book your flight at least 30 to 60 days in advance. Fares tend to be lower for flights departing mid-week, specifically on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, compared to the more popular weekend slots. Be sure to monitor prices over a period of time and remain flexible with your travel dates if possible to catch the best price drops.

Travelers seeking the best deals should consider signing up for the airline's newsletter or joining their rewards program. This ensures you receive immediate notifications about flash sales, seasonal promotions, and exclusive offers. Additionally, checking the "Deals" section on their official website is a great way to find discounted fares to popular destinations across their network.

To save time at the airport, make use of the online check-in service, which opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure. This allows you to confirm your details, pay for any baggage fees in advance, and obtain your boarding pass digitally. If you are connecting through their main hub in Calgary, having your digital boarding pass ready on your phone can make navigating the terminal much faster.

Seat selection is another important aspect of your booking. While you can often select a seat for free during the 24-hour check-in window, availability may be limited. If you require extra legroom or need to ensure your family sits together, it is recommended to pay for seat selection at the time of booking. This guarantees your preferred spot and provides peace of mind before you arrive at the airport.

Downloading the WestJet mobile app is highly recommended for a smooth journey. Beyond storing your boarding pass, the app provides real-time flight status updates and gate changes. It is also essential for accessing the in-flight entertainment system, WestJet Connect, which streams movies and TV shows directly to your personal device.

Finally, always consider purchasing travel insurance when booking your flight. Whether you are flying domestically or internationally, insurance protects you against unexpected cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Review the coverage options carefully to ensure they meet the specific needs of your trip.

History and Development

The story of WestJet is one of remarkable growth, evolving from a small regional carrier into a formidable international airline. The company was founded by Clive Beddoe and a team of partners who saw an opportunity to introduce a low-cost alternative to the Canadian market. Modeled after the successful Southwest Airlines in the United States, the carrier officially launched operations on February 29, 1996. In those early days, the airline operated with just three Boeing 737-200 aircraft and a staff of 220 employees, serving five cities in Western Canada: Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Vancouver, and Winnipeg.

Throughout the early 2000s, the airline embarked on an aggressive expansion strategy, moving beyond its western roots to serve the "Eastern Triangle" of Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa. This period marked a significant shift in the Canadian aviation landscape, as the carrier broke existing monopolies and introduced competitive pricing nationwide. A key milestone during this era was the modernization of its fleet; the company retired its older aircraft in favor of fuel-efficient Next-Generation Boeing 737s, which became the backbone of its domestic and transborder operations.

To better serve smaller communities, the airline launched WestJet Encore in 2013. Utilizing a fleet of Bombardier Q400 turboprops, this regional subsidiary allowed the company to connect smaller towns to major hubs, feeding traffic into its growing main network. This strategic move significantly enhanced connectivity across the country, ensuring that residents in places like Victoria and Saskatoon had easier access to global travel options.

The airline's ambitions eventually turned toward the international stage. While it had long served vacation destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean, the introduction of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner in 2019 marked a new chapter. These wide-body aircraft allowed the carrier to launch non-stop service to Europe and Asia from its global hub in Calgary. This fleet upgrade also introduced a distinct three-cabin configuration, including a lie-flat Business cabin, signaling a move from a purely low-cost model to a value-based global carrier.

In recent years, the company has undergone significant corporate changes to strengthen its market position. In 2019, it was acquired by Onex Corporation, transitioning from a public company to a privately held entity. The airline has continued to evolve through strategic mergers and acquisitions, most notably the integration of ultra-low-cost carrier Swoop into its main operations and the acquisition of Sunwing Airlines. These moves have consolidated its presence in the leisure travel market, reinforcing its commitment to providing affordable vacation options while maintaining a dominant position in Western Canada.