WestJet has implemented a price hike for checked baggage fees, effective today, impacting many passengers. The new fees will see a $10 increase per bag for those paying at the airport and a $5 increase per bag for those paying in advance. These changes apply to reservations made from April 23 onwards.
Despite existing discounts for WestJet Rewards members, this marks the airline’s third baggage fee increase in three years, following a recent hike less than a year ago. WestJet attributes the fee adjustments to industry trends and the effects of current global conditions.
Passengers traveling within Canada on ultra-basic fares could now face fees 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 may incur charges ranging from $45 to $81 for the first bag and $60 to $99 for the second bag within Canada.
For passengers traveling to Asia or Europe on ultra-basic fares, baggage fees for a single checked item could range from $85 to $123. Excess, overweight, and oversized baggage fees will see the most significant increase, with an additional $50 charge. In some instances, overweight bags could cost up to $168.
This move by WestJet follows a similar action by Air Canada, which recently raised baggage fees for economy basic passengers. Furthermore, both airlines have introduced fuel surcharges for specific bookings or vacation packages. The spike in jet fuel prices, attributed to Iran’s Strait of Hormuz blockade, has prompted adjustments in fares and flight capacities by several airlines globally.
Amidst the surge in surcharges and flight reductions, air travel experts anticipate that travel costs will remain high in the near future, making for an expensive summer for travelers.
