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'Terribly pathetic': Metro Vancouver travellers react to WestJet's fare and baggage changes

The airline added a new fare but dropped its original lowest fare class.
Elana Shepert
Elana Shepert
westjet-personal-item-size-requirements-vancouver-flights-june-2024
Searches for WestJet personal item size requirements shot up after the airline announced the UltraBasic fare class that doesn't include carry-on luggage.Photo: Space_Cat/iStock/Getty Images Plus

Travellers booking tickets in WestJet's lowest fare class may no longer bring carry-on luggage with them in the cabin.

The airline announced the new UltraBasic fare on May 22, promising more flexibility for cost-conscious travellers who don't need to bring a carry-on bag. 

The new fare only includes a personal item, such as a purse, backpack, or another small personal item that travellers can store under the seat in front of them. They don't have access to the overhead bins for larger luggage. 

UltraBasic ticket-holders flying on transpacific and transatlantic routes will be permitted to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item.

But the new fare isn't an additional one on WestJet's roster of low-cost options. Instead, it has replaced the airline's Basic option, which was previously the lowest booking class.

WestJet's Basic fare included a piece of carry-on luggage and guests were not required to board last. Guests who book UltraBasic tickets will be last to board. 

WestJet said in a press release that the new fare will result in price reductions across domestic and transborder routes and is part of a larger strategy to make air travel more affordable.  

The airline added that the new fare "will expedite the boarding process, contributing to enhanced on-time performance and a better guest experience." 

“We are committed to air travel affordability, and UltraBasic is an innovative cost-effective solution that strengthens WestJet’s ability to offer guests budget-friendly airfares to more destinations,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer.

What to know about the WestJet UltraBasic fare

UltraBasic travellers may pay for extras, such as reserving a seat in advance or adding a checked bag, before check-in.

Guests in the new fare class may bring a personal item to be stored under the seat. They should also expect:

  • a pre-assigned seat at the back of the aircraft

  • the option to add checked baggage and seat selection for additional fees

  • the option to purchase Extended Comfort for additional benefits

Guests who purchased a Basic fare before June 4 will still be permitted a carry-on bag on all WestJet flights.

WestJet says guests can purchase higher fare classes including the Econo, EconoFlex, Premium, PremiumFlex, Business and BusinessFlex fare classes, to take advantage of bundled offerings.

Travellers react to new WestJet UltraBasic fare

Google searches for WestJet personal item size requirements skyrocketed in Metro Vancouver following the new fare's announcement. 

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Josh Byers wrote: "This is not ok. A $250 increase for a carry-on bag?? Lunatics. This is an insane way to cut down on people overcrowding the carry-on space. You're essentially having to decide between $137 for a checked bag, and $250 for a carry-on? This is utter insanity, WestJet." 

X user Shannon wrote that the airline was asking for hundreds of dollars and basically saying they hate their customers.

Another person joked how they are "waiting for another six months when WestJet will start charging for using the bathroom."

User tyl3r1 described the new fare as "terribly pathetic."

One traveller remarked that WestJet is "just an expensive version of Flair now." 

Duncan B. wrote: "This might be the biggest [expletive] to customers an airline company has ever tried to implement. WestJet trying to implement the RyanAir model but with Emirates pricing. Interesting business strategy."