WestJet is implementing an extra $60 charge on companion voucher bookings due to the surge in fuel prices. The airline’s companion voucher scheme, offered as a benefit for WestJet RBC Mastercard holders, enables them to bring a second passenger on a reduced-fare round trip.
This temporary surcharge, effective from April 8, will be applicable until fuel prices return to normal levels, according to an email sent to customers by WestJet. The airline’s spokesperson mentioned that the increase in fuel costs, resulting from the ongoing Middle East conflict, necessitated the surcharge to manage operational expenses.
To address the higher fuel expenses, WestJet is making adjustments to its flight schedule, such as consolidating flights on less popular routes and modifying seasonal travel periods. Capacity has been reduced by around one percent in April and three percent in May. Affected passengers have been provided with re-accommodation options on the same day as their original departure.
Wayne Smith, a professor specializing in hospitality and tourism at Toronto Metropolitan University, highlighted the challenges faced by Canadian airlines, including WestJet, in coping with the escalating fuel costs. He emphasized the substantial fuel consumption of aircraft, citing a notable increase in the fuel expenditure for a specific flight. Smith suggested that additional surcharges might be introduced by other airlines in response to the current situation, and passengers should anticipate fuller flights due to WestJet’s flight consolidations.
Overall, the airline industry is experiencing financial strain due to the unprecedented rise in fuel prices, leading to necessary measures like surcharges and flight consolidations for economic viability.
