WestJet has decided to raise the fees for checked baggage starting today, affecting many passengers. The increase will be $10 per bag for the first and second bags if paid at the airport, and $5 per bag for the first and second bags if paid in advance. These new fees will apply to reservations made on or after April 23.
While certain WestJet Rewards members can still benefit from discounts, this marks the third increase in baggage fees in three years. The airline attributes this change to industry trends and the effects of current global conditions.
Passengers traveling on WestJet’s ultra-basic fares within Canada could now pay between $60 and $93 for their first bag, and $75 to $111 for a second bag, depending on the payment timing and location. Standard econo passengers within Canada could face fees ranging from $45 to $81 for the first bag, and $60 to $99 for the second.
For travelers heading to Asia or Europe, baggage fees under the ultra-basic fare could range from $85 to $123 for a single checked bag. Excess, overweight, and oversized baggage fees are also increasing significantly, with overweight bags potentially costing up to $168.
This move by WestJet follows a similar decision by Air Canada, which recently announced higher baggage fees for economy basic passengers. Fuel surcharges have been introduced for certain bookings by both airlines, with Air Transat also adjusting fares and fuel surcharges. The spike in jet fuel prices, attributed to Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz, has led to capacity cuts and route adjustments by various airlines.
Experts in the air travel industry suggest that with rising surcharges and reduced flight options, travel costs may remain high in the near future. Vancouver-based travel agent McKenzie McMillan anticipates a costly summer for travelers.