WestJet announced today that it will start charging for a check on bag on flights to Europe starting January 6th. They also will increase some reserved seating depending on distance flown.
WestJet CEO Gregg Saretsky said this about the new fees in a conference call announcing 3rd quarter results : “Our competitors went here years ago and we’ve been late to the party,” He also said, “We’re not going to apologize for charging $25 for a first checked bag. These fares are significantly lower than the market has seen.”
I think WOW is the only other airline on a trans-Atlantic route to charge for a first bag. Seems like a bad move…even if they’re still cheaper than Air Canada, they’ve defined themselves now as being mean-Spirit-ed (pun intended).
Indeed, Norwegian charges for all “extras”. Checked bags, food, seat selection and other items that escape me at the moment, and is part of the reason why I decided, in my situation, to forego the pleasure of their flights and spend more miles than I usually do for flights leaving from the closest airport to my home. When I added a room for the night prior to my flight, more expensive parking, gas to Oakland Airport, or the wear & tear of getting there by public transport, the bargain fare ceased to be one. If I lived in the Bay Area it might have been different, though. but I feel for those who buy what seems to be a great fare before adding up all the extras and learn what it will really cost.
Unless the airfare is a TRULY great bargain, this will not work well for them. Air Canada offers a free bag on international flights, has a better frequent flyer program that Westjet and a far greater flight map.
I liked Westjet 10-15 years ago, when they were a true discounter, but they’ve become just another big airline that doesn’t care much for its consumers.
If I remember right, Norwegian also charges for checked bags , trans Atlantic, but they did from the beginning . I think for WestJet to change in a year they had record profits, will just make customers upset. I guess though airlines are partying over the fees , but I don’t think their customers are.