WestJet Airlines says it is replacing its basic fare with a new category that does away with a free carry-on bag and other perks once thought of as a given. A WestJet Encore Bombardier Q400 twin-engined turboprop aircraft is prepared for a flight in Kamloops, Saturday, June 3, 2023.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh
WestJet Airlines, headquartered in Calgary, has introduced a new fare category called the "UltraBasic category," replacing its previous basic ticket tier. This new tier, the most economical among seven fare classes, eliminates certain benefits like complimentary carry-on luggage.
Passengers opting for the UltraBasic category will receive assigned seats at the rear of the plane and must pay an additional fee to choose a seat, even during online check-in. Furthermore, they will board the aircraft last.
Unlike other fare classes, UltraBasic passengers are not allowed to store their carry-on bags in the overhead bins unless they pay an extra fee for this privilege. However, they can still bring a personal item to be stored under the seat. Trans-ocean routes include a carry-on allowance.
WestJet has stated on its website that the introduction of the UltraBasic fare will lead to price reductions across its flight routes. This move comes after the airline closed down its ultra low-cost subsidiary, Swoop, and acquired the budget carrier Sunwing Airlines.
The airline expects that this change will help alleviate congestion in overhead bin space and streamline the boarding process.
WestJet is not the first Canadian airline to offer a discounted fare without carry-on baggage privileges. Flair Airlines, based in Edmonton, only permits a free personal bag with its standard fare.
Previously, until 2014, the cost of checking one bag was included in the price of an airline ticket in Canada. However, WestJet announced in 2014 that it would begin charging passengers for their first checked bag, a move quickly followed by Air Canada.
To ensure passengers are aware of the restrictions associated with the UltraBasic fare, WestJet will provide clear communication throughout the booking process. Digital and printed boarding passes will also indicate that carry-on bags are not permitted with UltraBasic fares.
WestJet assures that UltraBasic passengers will continue to have access to onboard food and beverages, as well as the WestJet Connect inflight entertainment system, just like before.
