WestJet has raised the fees for checking baggage for many passengers starting today. Travelers paying at the airport to check their bags will now see a $10 increase per bag for the first and second bags. If paying in advance, the fees will go up by $5 per bag for the first and second bags. The airline mentioned that these new fees will apply to reservations made from April 23 onwards.
Although certain discounts for WestJet Rewards members will still be available, this marks the third increase in the airline’s baggage fees in as many years, following a hike less than a year ago. According to a WestJet spokesperson, the fee adjustments are in response to industry trends and the effects of current global conditions.
Passengers with the airline’s cheapest ultra-basic fares in Canada can expect to pay between $60 and $93 for the first bag and $75 to $111 for the second. Standard econo passengers traveling within Canada could pay between $45 and $81 for the first bag and $60 to $99 for the second.
For passengers flying to Asia or Europe, baggage fees could range from $85 to $123 for a single checked bag under the ultra-basic fare. Excess, overweight, and oversized baggage fees are experiencing the most significant increase, with overweight bags potentially costing up to $168.
This move by WestJet follows a similar increase in baggage fees announced by Air Canada last Monday. Air Canada raised baggage fees for economy basic passengers, with the first bag fee increasing from $35 to $45 for domestic and select international flights, and the second bag fee rising from $50 to $60.
Jet fuel prices have surged recently due to Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, leading to increased costs for airlines worldwide. As a result, Air Canada, Air Transat, and other carriers have been adjusting fares and cutting routes to mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs.
Overall, industry experts are warning that higher surcharges and reduced flight options could keep air travel costs elevated in the near future, making it potentially expensive for travelers this summer.