westjet seat assignment unavailable

User reports indicate no current problems at WestJet

Westjet Airlines is a Canadian airline that served domestic and international destinations.

I have a problem with WestJet

WestJet outages reported in the last 24 hours

Thanks for submitting a report.

Your report was successfully submitted.

How do you rate WestJet over the past 3 months?

or continue on web

Downdetector® is now available in the Speedtest® app

Download to get your favorite Downdetector features, coverage maps, and much more

Add your postcode or address for a more detailed view of what is happening at your location with WestJet

User denied geolocation access, please reset location settings and press allow to continue

Please enter a valid postcode or full address

An error has occurred. Please try again shortly

What isn't working?

Flight Status

Most reported problems

Stay up to date, westjet comments tips frustrations share them with other site visitors:, westjet reports from social media.

@WelshWalker @WestJet Trying to choose seats on flight and keeps saying you have an error on your system so cannot accept payment…when will this be resolved please?

@MimiKennedy123 @KP_MD2018 @WestJet With ANY issue of this kind, I would be grateful to have a neuro there with me, even if it were resolved. Shortsightedness can allow issues to balloon. My friend, Mark McEwen from CBS, had a stroke in flight. His damage could’ve been mitigated had a neuro been there.

@LostMyInhaler @LaizShar @allshiny @MamaLoca5 @SusanDavidsonM2 @KellyBC4 @KP_MD2018 @CatherineEPDoc @WestJet Yup. I can do plenty else just have to make adjustments! Hills are hard! Plus I can always make more trips instead of hurt myself doing too much

@C_Vilela @AncPhi @KP_MD2018 @WestJet That seems self-evident, no? She’s a neurologist -> the described symptoms are a neurological issue.

@TravelsofGreg @acvc90 @WestJet WestJet has the worst airline app and website. Slow and unreliable. And of course their Customer Service is unreachable. The United app is amazing and the Air Canada one is pretty good too.

@MsMamaT71 @WestJet I was sent scammers twice trying to fix the problem. I will be contacting you directly myself through my booking.

@rodney_geyer @frankgreco1 @AirCanada @WestJet just flew to Edinburgh with West jet, perfect flight, no issues.

@LucyWestje48 @fattybobjr @WestJet Hello? we apologize for the inconvenience that happened kindly follow back and DM your reachable whatsApp number starting with your country code for our customer relation team service to reach you out and escalate your problems thank you!

@deniseoryan @rcamcole What? That’s crazy! I reached Westjet chat through their Facebook site and stayed on with them (was not AI) and they solved the issue and rebooked me.

@EnergiaPublica @JesJam @WestJet Just happened to me. On an ultrabasic ticket because it was an overnight so didn’t need carry on luggage. Gate agent told me I could change my flight even on an ultrabasic because the flight was delayed 3 times. App won’t let me. On hold w/ @Westjet for over an hour. Gave up.

@GlennL416 @granttota @igetredpilled WestJet maintenance wasn't ordered back to work that's incorrect. The company caved after two days of striking and went back to the table to make a deal.

@ComFergus @WestJet Hey Westjet, the date picker on the website doesn't work when I want to put the date for my flight. Any idea what's going on?

@PeterHenry9999 @davidsmi @ctvottawa @WestJet VERY curious, AFTER you've experienced CRAP poor customer service AND THEN report it, is when all the managers and reps come out of the wood work to help. Where were you DURING the incident?

@slyfoxy6 @WestJet extremely difficult reaching you on phone. Several calls to you are never picked up or returned despite waiting for long. Email complaints sent you are also not responded to. A complaint made via email/ web since March 2024 is yet to be acknowledged! Another issue now

@thewrightsun @WestJet How is it cool to delay my flight by 8 hours due to “Unplanned Aircraft Maintenance” resulting in a lost night at a hotel, lost transportation cost, and a lost evening at my destination, and not provide any compensation for this?

@CMcNamara22 @WestJetSupers Why you are clearly a bot and my @westjet issues will only increase. May be time to Move my business to @aircanada

@JackieDuf @WestJet And then they disconnect.

@OkChewy @AHoensbroech all #westjet customer services are failing, the automated online labyrinth is faulty. This is either incomitance, neglect or intentional. how can I escalate my complaints on these repeated systemic failures? either empower your staff or change this system

@Ren3gade7 @TravelsofGreg @TorontoPearson @WestJet Probably because it’s not THEIR outage

@TravelsofGreg @TorontoPearson Why isn’t @WestJet communicating anything directly about THEIR outage?

@TrishaHarriso20 @WestJet It says 'unable to process'

@neerajkvaid @VarunSriskanda @AirCanada Stopped flying @AirCanada due to their poor service standards. Always prefer @WestJet over it.

@Teddier @WestJet fix your app please. Did not allow seat selection gave me errors and now in worst seats because the app and website are terrible. It took 5 attempts to login without crashing.

@kimagewheeler Hey @WestJet who do I email to request a refund on baggage because your app was not working and I had to pay at the airport last week?

@BrotherBlake50 @WestJet are you selling flights that are not available? I have a vacation booked where we paid substantially more money to fly direct. You changed our flight home to have an overnight layover in Edmonton. told by customer service that is unavailable but it is still bookable???

@TravelsofGreg @OkChewy @WestJet WestJet used to be friendly and reliable. They have lost their way. Poor reliability, awful customer service, useless app and website, the worst legroom, and a weak loyalty program. Used to be a respected brand, but current mgmt is destroying this.

@Bernie0806 @WestJet Seattle you are irresponsible and suck with delivering bags. The lack of not understanding, reading or understanding English is the issue. 4 calls to WJ agents, 5 days later, detoured to San Jose and my bag is still not delivered , sitting 32 hrs in your baggage. - 1/2

@darrensapalo @WestJet Unable to add check-in baggage for WestJet ‌1509 ‌(Sept 1, 2024 - 12:50 PM PST)- the website doesn't work saying "cannot add baggage for this flight, please call" and trying to "add baggage" via call results to "sorry please call the third party" which says to call you.

@funnybrad @WestJet I talked to the baggage services department. They cannot locate my bag. Checked bag with 45 minutes until departure. There was then a 45 minute flight delay. Small airport. Bag didn’t make it

@ScottRe93134206 You suck @WestJet . Loved you as alternative to uncaring Air Can.....but you are the worst now. You are at the bottom with no service and cancellations You are normalizing disruption to then normalize we all have to buy insurance. I hope you fail.

@KerrieReay @ceo_nathan3279 Awesome service, @WestJet representatives had this all arranged in 15 minutes, can’t express how relieved we are ???

@TravelsofGreg @stephenj_king @WestJet WestJet used to be friendly and reliable. They have lost their way. Poor reliability, awful customer service, useless app and website, the worst legroom, and a weak loyalty program. Used to be a respected brand, but current mgmt is destroying this.

@starchoice @RBC Yes, I did. Thanks for following the saga. Problems with the #WestJet card have been continual since last April. Each time a new problem arises, it’s like starting from square 1. I am trying to get some personalized help. Is it wrong to seek personalized help from a branch? #RBC

@zphi16 @Delta @WestJet after a one hour delay, I was bumped off flight 1105 yesterday because there were five broken seats. Today the replacement flight ( 1101) is nearly 2 hours delayed again and still sitting on the tarmac. Is this the level of Westjet service?

@chanelifoux77 @WestJet when will your APPR claim site be back up? I've been trying to submit a claim since Friday and it keeps saying it's unavailable.

@Syxeth @thealexblair @WestJet I agree with your opinion of WestJet. I was given a flight credit for a cancelled trip. Each time I tried to use, there was always a system issue. When I finally managed to reach cust. service 2 yrs later(!) I was told it expired. My loss. Pathetic. I have not flown with WJ since

@Boucher11A @WestJet This is still not working

@ubbergenius Congratulations, WestJet, 2 hours 59 minutes on hold. It appears that WestJet is merely "just another airline", a filght advertised as direct to Phoenix now through calgary......a 1st world problem?

@alison_gir92050 @WestJet you cancelled my flight when I was flying solo with two children. And now your webpage to submit a claim has been “temporarily unavailable” since Thursday. How can you make this right if I can’t even submit?

@AldCeoWestJet @WestJet Our apologies for the late response as we are experiencing a high volume of contacts. Kindly provide your WhatsApp number starting with your country code. Thanks you

@walesie22 @PETE_0716 @WestJet I totally agree. Been on hold for over two hours twice today and still no reply ?

@PETE_0716 @WestJet Impossible. No one is able to get through to your call centre. I’ve tried multiple times and been on hold for several hours at a time. You are unreachable and need to understand that you need to come up with some solutions for your customers instead of platitudes on social media.

@cdnhockeymom87 @thealexblair @WestJet This happened July 18 with a cancelled flight 1 hour after a last minute email (3-4 hours before take off) saying “unscheduled aircraft maintenance” delay out of Vegas. Imagine a last minute hotel on a Thursday night in Vegas! Still haven’t heard back and over 30 days!

@HD_Rider06 Why are there always issues with cancelations and delays at #yyc airport? Canadian airlines, #westjet and #aircanada suck! We need some #American air lines or at least some competition! @yyc @westjet @AirCanada Absolutely brutal!

@514infl @WestJet is your system down? I have been trying to purchase a checked bag since yesterday and keep getting an error message!

@taydontgo13 Currently been on hold with @WestJet for 4 hours (1:20 call dropped, currently at 2:36 on the second call) to book my tickets to Toronto because you can’t book an infant with their own seat online… ?? cmon I just want to go to sleep

@J_Wittke @WestJet @WestJet your customer service has been unacceptable. Nobody answers the phones.

@Boucher11A @WestJet who do I co fact about claims for a flight you cancelled for unscheduled maintenance? Your customer service line isn't working or helpful

@AABTH5 @hstevie @WestJet Very poor customer service. Still not able to get through by phone. I paid to upgrade my seats and arrive at the airport to be told sorry you are 16 back. Now I can’t get the $ back because they don’t answer the calls. If they do answer the call drops. #westjetsucks

@kjjax Apparently we're now driving to Vancouver. We've been on the move on the tarmac for at least 10-15 minutes now. @Westjet 5 hour flight becomes 6.5 hours

@ddledd @WestJet We are having issues checking in, saying check in is unavailable. Hours on hold and we can't get through to anyone. What should we do?

@WirachowskyT @78caminoman @WestJet Nope. Ever since they were bought by Onex they’re just abhorrent. My family has taken 7 flights this year and 4 of them have been cancelled or delay longer than 2 hours for issues not related to weather. They’re ?️ ?️?️?️

@WillThechees @WestJet are your planes safe today is the second time in a short period I’ve had flights canceled for a mechanical problem until the next day and also coworkers from other locations for mechanical problems #flightsafety #brokenplanes

@gaucoinamole13 @TravelsofGreg @PETE_0716 @WestJet Customer service is basically nil now.

@TravelsofGreg @PETE_0716 @WestJet WestJet cancels flights at the last minute even though planes have been out of service for two weeks. They don’t rebook pax quickly, their IT doesn’t work, and their call center is unreachable. Awful airline.

@FennecFox2012 When did @westjet customer service get so bad. Trying to check in 24 hrs early. Problems with our seats. Called them, still on hold 2 hrs later. Their earliest call back service is the day AFTER. Their live chat is as bad as sitting on hold. @AirCanada is starting to look better

@GBayGiants @WestJet Hi, You’ve now cancelled our new flight due to unscheduled maintenance!! There is a 0% chance we’ll ever use your service. We’ve booked new flights home with @flairairlines an airline service that actually gets their customers where they’re trying to go.

@MacinnesMyles #WestJet has such a poor service attitude that when they cancel flights they don't even add call centre staff to deal with increased call volumes. They should try harder if they want customer loyalty. Anyone else having problems contacting them ?

@hunterjrj Shockingly bad service from @WestJet on WJA17 / EDI to YYZ yesterday. Flight diverted to YOW then cancelled at gate. 100s of kms short of destination! 3+ hours holding for customer service, no response. First callback slot: TUESDAY! App reporting errors. Do better #Westjet!

@LilyHannah52184 @_WestJames Hello James. Thank you for your reply. Another Westjet agent is currently helping me resolve the issue. :-)

@_ChickTaylor @StevenMa499 @BrianShann62448 @WestJet I got WJ claiming my 715 flight YYZ to YYC is cx due to weather, yet they have planes flying YYZ to YYC at both 645 and 8AM same day. Interesting weather anomaly that affects only my gate...

@_ChickTaylor @StevenMa499 @BrianShann62448 @WestJet The weather they are referring to is the August 5 hailstorm in Calgary. Since then it has been musical chairs of plane cancellations. Why they decide to try to decieve customers at the nth hour is beyond me, given this issue was known 2 wks ago.

@StevenMa499 @BrianShann62448 @WestJet Exact same issue for me on WS722. Their excuse that this was weather related is completely disingenuous, WS724 departed for YYZ with no issues, multiple AC flights also departed YVR with no issue.

@WestJet @debramarston We are sorry to hear your flight has been cancelled. WestJet had about 16 planes grounded, after Calgary was hit with a hail storm. Our maintenance workers are working around the clock, to get these planes back up and running safely for our guest.

@debramarston @WestJet Hey there - can someone explain why you've cancelled my yeg to yyc flight on Monday for unscheduled maintenance? Surely if you've cancelled it now it's scheduled maintenance?

@rodmaldaner @cspotweet How about @WestJet just simply not taking calls. For stranded customers. Or anyone dealing with a problem their online help can’t help.

@leidl77 @WestJet Waiting for my callback…. Waiting, waiting waiting….. call drops….no agents available…. You are calling me. That’s how the callback works…..

@SerenaCMah @JulieMHelps @WestJet It is so sad, me too. It seems like a rapid decline. I hope they regroup and return to customer service. I hope you are well.

@JulieMHelps @SerenaCMah @WestJet I used to love @WestJet and only flew with them. After my last 2 experiences with cancelled flights or lost/delayed bags that changed. Problems happen with all airlines. It’s how a company handles them that counts. It’s completely unacceptable their lack of customer service now.

@RobertWalter @RachelCleves @WestJet If their maintenance department is operated like these other parts of their company maybe you’re lucky ?

@MattMakel @WestJet 3.5 hours on hold. Help.

@faffymomma @WestJet been trying to connect with someone bc i cant add baggage to my flights thru the app. i get an error code. why is it so hard to get help from you guys!

@MattMakel @WestJet I got an email saying my flight was cancelled. When I try to update online, I am told either I need to pay $5,000 to get my same seat in 2 days or that there's a "technical error" and to contact customer service. I have now been on hold for over 3 hours. Help. #WestJet

@TravelsofGreg @xBeeriant @WestJet WestJet cancels flights at the last minute even though planes have been out of service for a week. They don’t rebook pax quickly, their IT doesn’t work, and their call center is unreachable. Awful airline.

@WestJet @Lathojia We are sorry to hear your flight was cancelled due to the hail storm in Calgary. WestJet had 16 planes damaged, and need extensive work done on them. We have maintenance, working around the clock. To get these planes back up and running safely.

@SHEEPDOGSROCK @SeeClickFlash @WestJetNews @WestJet There is definitely something wrong with their communications. Weeks before the hailstorm I found out by accident that a flight I was booked on was cancelled. WestJet did not inform me at all. Ever.

@TravelsofGreg @AmerinDay Bad weather happens, but it’s how they respond. WestJet cancels flights at the last minute even though planes have been out of service for a week. They don’t rebook pax quickly, their IT doesn’t work, and their call center is unreachable. That is not proactive.

@rodmaldaner @derekrmathers @WestJet When are you flying out? I scheduled a call back through their website. The problem is that it would in 3.5 days. I will say the call came within the minute of the scheduled time. And we got all the issues resolved. But not being about to actually call them is unacceptable.

@NooyLynette @SerenaCMah @WestJet Had the same issue yesterday. Delayed out of Abbotsford so too late in Calgary to make my connection to Grande Prairie. Rebooked for 6am today, but had to pick up luggage and do security again. Up 24+ hrs. Medical issue made worse

@jeff_a_meyers @WestJet please explain how you can advise 24 hrs in advance that a flight will be delayed 1hr and 25min for unscheduled maintenance? Am I missing something?!

@klknott @TravelsofGreg @rodmaldaner @WestJet @WestJet charged me twice for checked bags after they cancelled my flight. They owe me money. I can’t get through. Been trying since June 29. It is so unethical what they are doing. Cancelling flights. Prices surge. Isn’t that illegal? No repercussions for them. No one cares

@MycroftRodger @JacqieJaguar @WestJet Up to 1.5 hours on hold and haven’t been dropped.

@blackyvy @WestJet you collect our email and cell phone numbers. A call back would be appreciated to discussion this issue. Flight 3302 res code DBGNOS

@JacqieJaguar @MycroftRodger @WestJet Right? I’m reasonable but I’ve been on hold for 2 hours. Last night my call was dropped after an hour and a half. The sign up for a call back is Friday. We just want to figure out our flights home. This is frustrating

@MycroftRodger @WestJet what an absolute joke this airline is. Good customer service acknowledges issues, not hides.

@nobody_handmaid @SerenaCMah @WestJet On my tardy flight yesterday from Comox, several of us were in danger of missing connecting flights, all of which complained about rude and unsympathetic @WestJet employees of late. Good you have at least been spared that- maybe the sentiment has hit home. Good luck in any event.

@David1884McC @WestJet @WestJet 2hrs on hold and you hang up on us, multi hours on hold over the last week. What a way to run a business, get the money F' the customers. We will do our bit to help other customers by never flying with you again so will never have to block your call centre again.

@TravelsofGreg @JayLesykWX Bad weather happens, but it’s how they respond. WestJet cancels flights at the last minute even though planes have been out of service for a week. They don’t rebook pax quickly, their IT doesn’t work, and their call center is unreachable.

@FemiNelson1 @WestJet @Expedia Booked a non refundable flight with no changes and I should contact @WestJet directly. I’ve been calling but the line keeps getting dropped due to the volume of calls since yesterday afternoon. I woke up at 1:30 because I thought the volume would be less then

@wells44 @WestJet can’t get through on the phone, website not working. WTF

@kendallkeeley Spend two and a half hours on hold with @WestJet and then you disconnect the call. Try to call back, you’re not accepting any new calls. All because your online self serve options are trash after you cancel my flight

@wells44 @WestJet you suck. Just got an email my direct flight on Friday was changed to 8 hours later with a 2 hour layover and arriving at midnight. Changed it so now leaving a day early. Try to add bags and I get technical error and to call. Cancelling my wj mc tomorrow.

@TravelsofGreg @LLumiya @WestJet WestJet used to be friendly and reliable. They have lost their way. Poor reliability, awful customer service, useless app and website, the worst legroom, and a weak loyalty program. Used to be a respected brand, but current mgmt is destroying this.

@EmilyLiu1730139 @WestJet you moved my August 15th’s flight to August 20th and my return flight is August 18. I have been waiting on customer service line for hours and your online ‘manage my booking’ function is not working.

@RobSwaney1 @WestJet this is brutal 15 minutes before boarding time delay flight by 50 minutes and then 15 minutes before new departure time delays by 1.5 hours this was after over 2.5 hours delay earlier today

@WestJet @schickedanzadam Hi there. Thank you for reaching out, and our apologies for the dropped calls. We kindly request your continued patience in your attempts to connect to a WestJet Vacations agent. Our apologies for the inconvenience caused.

@regina_grandma @tbw1963 Anyone travelling WestJet soon can expect problems. 20 of their planes were hail damaged in Calgary storm last week.

@mackayhfx @BexSaunders7 @AirCanada This is a typical Air Canada experience for me, we’ve become accustomed to this level of service from our national carrier. I avoid AC now at all costs and fly Porter regionally or WestJet nationally.

@jpsandhu79 @WestJet @StephenAmesPGA Guess the only way to get some service from WestJet is if you’re a professional golfer. Wish WestJet would treat all their customers this way.

@klknott @hstevie @WestJet It’s insanity. No recourse for the customers. They screw us over continually with 0 consequences. My MLA, MP don’t care. Transportation Minister won’t do anything. It’s criminal what @WestJet is doing. Won’t answer phone, double dipping, broken customer service…insanity

Page last updated by downdetector.ca

Having problems? Complain here:

Via X Via Facebook

What information is incorrect?

For Business

Methodology

Try our apps

Google Play

Ookla ® Brands

Speedtest.net ®

Social Media

Privacy statement

Accessibility statement

Terms of use

Do Not Sell My Personal Information

General inquiries

Media inquiries

Downdetector Explorer sales inquiries

See outages and services in

Visit the local version of Downdetector for the most relevant information

Redirecting to

Redirecting in # seconds...

Redirecting in # second...

A review of WestJet economy on the Boeing 737 from Fort Lauderdale to Calgary

Editor's Note

Quick take: WestJet economy class is a no-frills passenger experience that could be worth it for budget-minded travelers — but only if you get your tickets for the right price.

• A la carte food and beverage options were reasonably priced
• Wi-Fi speed was decent, and WestJet's digital entertainment had a great movie selection
• Efficient, if not overly warm, service
• Cabin interior was dirty and had very worn seats
• Drink cups were very small and beverage service was limited, so you may want to bring your own water or beverages aboard
• Only one attendant at the check-in desk for non-priority passengers led to the line moving slowly

Looking to travel to Canada, eh?

Aside from Air Canada , WestJet should be on your radar. As Canada's second-largest airline, this carrier offers a no-frills, low-cost customer experience. But while some may consider WestJet a "budget airline," the carrier's amenities still surpass that of low-cost U.S. airlines like Spirit and Frontier .

Since I prefer nonstop, round-trip flight deals over cheaper, layover-filled itineraries, I found myself perusing WestJet's website. Looking to fly from Fort Lauderdale to Calgary, Alberta, in economy, I found round-trip, nonstop flights for just $292. To note, this nonstop flight route does not operate year-round with the same frequency.

Seated in economy class for roughly five-and-a-half hours, here's how my overall WestJet experience went.

How to book economy on WestJet

WestJet Boeing 737s like the one I flew have only economy or premium economy seats on board; therefore, there are no business- or first-class fares available for flights operated by this aircraft.

WestJet sells three types of economy fares on a Boeing 737 from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to Calgary International Airport (YYC): Basic, Econo and EconoFlex. Here is what is included with each.

WestJet's baggage policy allows passengers to have one personal item and one carry-on item for free when booking in economy, but its size requirements are a bit smaller than other similar airlines — more on that later.

As a points and miles enthusiast, I initially tried to book my flight via an award redemption. Though Delta is a codeshare partner of WestJet, I could not find nonstop award availability using Delta SkyMiles. Next, I checked the prices on the Chase and Amex travel portals .

The cash price on both travel portals was higher than WestJet was charging directly. However, I had the option to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points at a fixed rate of 1.5 cents apiece with my Chase Sapphire Reserve® through Chase Travel or my Amex Membership Rewards points for 1 cent apiece via amextravel.com, thanks to carrying The Platinum Card® from American Express .

I typically get more value from these transferable point currencies by transferring them to airline and hotel partners and redeeming them that way; therefore, I decided to save my points for future redemptions since the cash price on the WestJet flight was so low.

However, if you want to use your points for a nonstop WestJet award flight, I recommend using Chase Ultimate Rewards to get the best redemption.

*Editor's note: Price ranges were available at the time of search and can fluctuate based on demand, season and other factors.

Since WestJet had a 20% discount on flights at the time of my booking, I purchased a round-trip, nonstop flight from Fort Lauderdale to Calgary in economy for $292. I used my Amex Platinum card to book my flight since it earns 5 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline (on up to $500,000 of these purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar), while my Chase Sapphire Reserve only earns 3 points per dollar spent on travel purchases.

Related: How far in advance can you book a flight?

Checking in and boarding economy on WestJet

Before my flight, I downloaded the WestJet app, easily checked in and obtained my mobile boarding pass.

I typically prefer not to check luggage and fly with a small suitcase as my carry-on bag and my backpack as my personal item.

However, I double-checked the airline's baggage policy because I've never flown with WestJet, and it stated that a backpack with the dimensions of my bag would count as a carry-on bag rather than a personal item. Since I didn't know how strict the airline would be with their bag policy, I decided to prepay $40 one-way for a checked bag because if I were forced to check my backpack or carry-on at the airport, I would be charged an additional $10 anyway.

The WestJet gate agents did not double-check that each customer's bags fit the appropriate personal and carry-on dimensions at the gate, but gate agents at YYC did check on my return flight, so you might not want to take any chances if you're flying with the airline.

At FLL, WestJet does not have a kiosk where customers can check in or print luggage tags and boarding passes. Instead, you must wait in line to drop off your suitcase if you are checking bags. WestJet has a priority check-in lane available to business- and premium economy-ticketed passengers and Platinum, Gold and Silver elite members of its WestJet Rewards program. Since Delta is a partner of WestJet, if you are a Delta Silver, Gold, Platinum or Diamond Medallion member , you can also access the airline's priority lane.

I do not have status with either loyalty program, nor was I flying in business or premium class, so I got in the non-priority bag drop lane. There was only one WestJet employee servicing this lane, which made the bag drop process a bit slow. While this was not problematic for me since I was the eighth guest in line and arrived two hours before my flight's departure time, it could create extra stress if you find yourself at the very back of a long check-in line with only one attendant.

After swiftly getting through security at Terminal 2 using my Clear Plus membership and TSA PreCheck status, I waited for my flight to start boarding. WestJet participates in TSA PreCheck, so be sure to add your Known Traveler Number before check-in to speed up your security process.

Surprisingly, my flight began boarding 10 minutes before it was scheduled to do so. I've never been on a flight where the boarding process began early. Like most airlines, WestJet boards priority members, including premium economy passengers and those holding elite status with the airline, first in Zone 1. Additionally, Delta Gold Medallion members and above are also able to board in Zone 1.

As an economy passenger seated in the back of the plane, I boarded in Zone 2. Apparently, WestJet boards the back of the plane in Zone 2 and the front of the plane — aside from premium customers — in Zone 3. The overall boarding process was quick and efficient, and we were able to take off about 10 minutes earlier than the originally scheduled 3:30 p.m. departure.

Related: A review of Delta Air Lines in first class on the Airbus A321neo from Los Angeles to Seattle

How comfortable was WestJet economy?

The aircraft for my five-and-a-half-hour flight was on a Boeing 737 with the following seat count and layout in economy.

I was seated in 28E — a middle seat just two rows ahead of the last row on the aircraft. Unfortunately, when I got to my middle seat, I noticed a small, empty alcohol bottle in the seatback pocket, which also had a noticeable crack. Taking a look around, it seemed like all the seats were well worn, and the floors were noticeably dirty with crumbs that I assumed were food. I couldn't help but wonder if they didn't clean the plane at all before we boarded.

If you value flight comfort, economy on WestJet may not be for you. While the economy seat pitch on this Boeing flight is 30 inches — the standard for most airlines — the seat's cushioning was minimal and only reclined about 3 inches. I didn't notice any rips or scuffing on the seats, but the loose fabric and body imprints show that these seats are a bit worn.

Each seat had a USB-A port and a universal plug located just above the seatback pocket. A plug to charge my phone was imperative on this longer flight, as the carrier only offers wireless entertainment to stream on your own devices rather than a seat-mounted inflight entertainment system.

The tray table on my WestJet flight was average size, about 15 to 16 inches wide and easily deployed. While I could comfortably fit my 17-inch laptop on the tray table, it's not ideal for those wanting to enjoy a beverage or eat while using your computer.

WestJet's 737s have three lavatories: one at the front of the plane and two at the back. That made for some lengthy wait times during certain stretches of the flight. Since this flight is more than two hours, I suggest booking at least five rows away from the bathrooms at the back of the plane.

I had moved to the aisle seat before takeoff since no one was sitting there. So, starting about two hours into the flight, there were constantly people standing next to my seat waiting for the facilities. I tried to nap on the plane, but this made it hard with people brushing past me.

Overall, the bathrooms on this WestJet flight felt comparable to other domestic U.S. flights regarding size and cleanliness.

Amenities in WestJet economy

Don't expect many amenities on WestJet economy flights. While there are no seatback screens, WestJet allows you to use your wireless device to watch movies and TV shows for free on its app via Wi-Fi streaming. The airline had a good selection of new movies, including "The Marvels," "Oppenheimer" and "Barbie."

I purchased a Wi-Fi pass that I could use for the entirety of my flight for CA$23.09 (about $17). While inflight Wi-Fi can be spotty no matter which carrier you're flying, my WestJet Connect worked surprisingly well. I was able to watch YouTube videos, send texts, answer work emails and use social media apps with no problem.

Related: Maximize your airfare: The best credit cards for booking flights

How was the food in WestJet economy?

Inflight food service started about 30 minutes after departure. The crew came around to ask if anyone would like to order from the a la carte menu. Complimentary beverage service began shortly after the crew finished taking passengers' orders from the a la carte menu.

Since this was a nearly six-hour flight, I opted to try the red Thai curry cup with coconut rice and the three-cheese pasta cup with Italian spices for my dinner. These two items each cost about $7.

Unsure of what to expect, I waited as the attendant brought out two microwaved cups of food from Meal of the Moment, a brand that produces instant meals. The red Thai curry was flavorful for being a dehydrated instant meal. However, the three-cheese pasta cup was bland, and the Italian spices created an odd flavor profile when added to what amounted to watered-down instant macaroni and cheese.

If dining on dehydrated instant meals does not sound appetizing, you can also purchase snacks such as a Kit Kat, beef jerky, Pringles and gummy bears.

Aside from WestJet's a la carte menu, economy passengers can choose from a selection of complimentary beverages, including water, juice and sodas, and a free snack — either pretzels or a chocolate biscuit.

Alcoholic beverages, such as a glass of pinot grigio or merlot, cost about $7. Beer, including Coors Light and Molson Canadian, costs about $6.

Customers were not given an entire can of soda or a beverage of their choice. Instead, I had to settle for a small plastic cup filled with ice and a little liquid when I ordered a ginger ale. Perhaps that's WestJet's way of trying to limit bathroom breaks.

After just a few sips, I finished my drink and wanted another. The flight attendants came around twice to pass out complimentary snacks and drinks, and when I asked if I could have both pretzels and a chocolate biscuit, the attendant happily obliged. Beverages aside, at least they were not being stingy on the snacks.

The second inflight service took place a little over an hour before the plane landed. Since there are only two inflight beverage services on this flight and the pour-size is limited, I suggest bringing your own nonalcoholic drinks.

Related: Is United Airlines premium economy worth it to Europe?

Is WestJet economy worth it?

It's true what they say, "You get what you pay for."

My international economy flight to Calgary was bare-bones but still worth it. Though the interior cabin could have been cleaner and better maintained, my seat had enough legroom to sit through my five-and-a-half-hour flight from FLL to YYC. This aircraft reminded me of an older JetBlue or American Airlines plane.

For future WestJet flights, I would make sure to buy snacks and drinks at the airport so I do not have to rely on the inflight service. I would also make a point to keep my devices charged ahead of time in case there are any issues with the in-seat power outlets when I want to stream entertainment.

Overall, if this round-trip economy flight had cost more than $700, I would have been disappointed in the overall customer experience. But because I paid less than $300 for a rather long round-trip journey between two smaller cities, I deplaned satisfied.

Editor's note: A previous version of this story listed the aircraft as a Boeing 737 MAX 8, but it was a 737-800. This has been corrected in the story.

• Planes & Seat Maps >
• Boeing 737-800 (738)

WestJet Seat Maps

• Boeing 737 MAX 8 (7M8)
• Boeing 737-600 (736)
• Boeing 737-700 (737)
• Boeing 767-300ER (76W)
• Boeing 787-9
• Bombardier Q400

Seating details Seat map key

Traveler photos (11)

In-flight amenities

WestJet is transitioning from seatback monitors to a new wireless entertainment system. The 737 fleet will be equipped with WestJet Connect, a wireless streaming server with access to over 500 hours of free movies and television episodes and connection to the Internet for a fee.

More Information

Earbuds are available for purchase on all WestJet flights that offer in-flight entertainment options. Passengers can also use their own earbuds. All 3.5 mm (approximately 1/8 in) stereo headphone connections (with one prong) will work with WestJet systems.

Both 110v power and USB power are available to all seats on this aircraft.

On all flights over 70 minutes, WestJet is offering a complimentary beverage service which includes soft drinks, juice, coffee or tea, as well as passengers' choice of a sweet or salty snack.

On most flights over 1 hour and 40 minutes, snacks can be purchased through Westjet's Buy on Board program. View Menu

The Boeing 737 is the most environmentally friendly model in its class in terms of fuel consumption and noise control. The aircraft are equipped with winglets to provide additional fuel savings. Thanks to its ultramodern computer technology and GPS, this model of aircraft can be steered with great precision and fuel economy.

WestJet has operated a fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft since it began in 1996. The narrow-body 737 happens to be one of the best-selling commercial jetliner in history. WestJet currently operates a fleet that spans through the generations of old and new. Latest additions to the fleet comprise of the 600 and the larger 800 series. Both add valuable and necessary flexibility to WestJet Airlines. However, the bulk of its fleet is made up of the Boeing 737-700.

WestJet fleet of 737-600, 737-700, and 737-800 aircraft features leather seats and Wireless Entertainment with Internet Connectivity. WestJet's B737-800 operates on short and medium-haul flights and has a 168 seats capacity.

The Premium section is located in the first three rows of the aircraft and offer 3-4 inches of additional pitch. Passengers seated in Plus will get advance boarding, first access to overhead bins, and complimentary food and beverages (selections vary). In addition, the Premium fare offers passengers priority screening (at available airports) and the ability to change or cancel flights for no fee.

Premium seats offer 4-5 inches of seat recline, Economy seats offer 3 inches of recline.

Featured user comments

Read user reviews for WestJet Boeing 737-800 (738)

See all featured user comments

Seat map key

• Be Aware - See comments
• Mixed Review
• Standard seat
• Blocked seat
• Premium seat
• Emergency exit

WestJet flies 1 versions of Boeing 737-800.

Please choose the correct version from the list:

SeatGuru was created to help travelers choose the best seats and in-flight amenities.

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do

Westjet Seat Selection fee - SeatGuru Forum

• Tripadvisor Forums    
• SeatGuru Forums

Westjet Seat Selection fee

• Canada Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• SeatGuru forum

"Fees for advanced seat selection

If you skip seat selection, your seat will be automatically assigned for no fee. Choosing a seat at any time will result in the following fees based on your fare:"

Followed by a list of fees and then there is this poorly written clue :

"If you are paying for a seat fee on westjet.com, the fee will be charged in the currency of your reservation, when selecting a seat more than 24 hours before flight time."

Westjet's FAQ on seat selection is not helpful in deciphering the sentence that was inserted prior to the current sentence :

"Can I still select my seat if I don't want to pay the fee? You can skip the fee in three ways:

Skip seat selection and have your seat assigned automatically at time of check in

Take advantage of fare bundle benefits with advance seat selection for standard seats in EconoFlex, or preferred seats in Premium and Business.

WestJet Rewards seat selection vouchers for Silver, Gold and Premium members."

Air Canada spells it out pretty clearly:

"Within 24 hours of your flight :

Check in online or on your mobile device, and choose from the remaining standard seats* at no cost."

Westjet has gone to some length to obscure their policy - can anyone solve the mystery?

In my experience no they don't.

Once OLCI opens then you won't pay a fee for a standard seat, assuming you'll have bought an Econo seat. If you buy an Econo Flex ticket you'll have the option to choose a standard seat at the time of booking but will pay a fee to choose a preferred seat.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Boeing 767-300ER version 1 15 September 2024
• Saudi Airlines Extra Baggage Charges 12 September 2024
• Changing seats pre/after take-off American Airlines 12 September 2024
• Delta 757-300 seats 28 d&e 09 September 2024
• United 787-9 08 September 2024
• Foot rest on Boeing 777 300er 04 September 2024
• AA flagship first class from dfw to london 30 August 2024
• Avianca B787 economy seats not reclining? 27 August 2024
• Virgin A330 300 Premium Economy Row 25, Does it Recline? 24 August 2024
• Travelling to Mexico on 787 9 which has 46 rows 10 August 2024
• Qatar A380 Seating Doha > Perth 09 August 2024
• Airbus A350-900 (359) Turkish airlines - Seat 43B 43C 08 August 2024
• Beenruimte Xiamen boing 787-9 en boing 737-800 06 August 2024
• TUI Dreamliner 787-9 Full window seats? 04 August 2024

The world's best hotels. Get the list .

• Travel Forum
• GreenLeaders

The browser you are using is not supported. Please see our supported browsers .

We are currently experiencing high call volumes.

Please visit our  Self-serve  page for available options

By using the WestJet website, you agree to the website terms of use , the privacy statement , and the use of cookies .

Cabin downgrade refund request

If you purchased a ticket in the Business or Premium cabin but a seat was not available in that cabin due to a flight interruption, you may be eligible for a partial refund.

One form per guest is required . Please use a unique email address for every adult on your reservation. Approved refunds will be sent to the email address provided, with options for how you can receive payment electronically.

For minors, fill in the guest information with the name on their ticket and your information as claimant.

*Required fields

Guest Information

Please fill in details for the guest impacted by the downgrade.

Flight information

Is this guest a minor.

To claim on behalf of a guest who is a minor, please provide your name (as “Requestor”) and email address.

• Tour Operators
• Destinations
• Hotels & Resorts
• Digital Edition Spring 2024
• Digital Edition Fall 2023
• Travel Webcast
• Voices of Travel
• Agents' Choice Gala
• Agents' Choice survey results
• Canadian Travel Press
• Travel Courier
• Agents' Choice 2023
• Agents' Choice 2022
• Offshore Travel Magazine
• Culinary Travels

Seat Selection Made Easy With WestJet

January 8, 2018

WestJet is reminding agents and their clients that they can easily pre-purchase seats on its web site for both GDS and WestJet Vacations bookings.

This feature was temporarily unavailable for GDS bookings due to some technical difficulties, but is up and running again, offering agents and their clients more convenience and flexibility when it comes to seat selection.

Agents that didn’t add seats to a GDS booking and want to do so after completing the booking can visit westjet.com/addseats and search for their client’s reservation by entering their PNR and last name.

To select seats for a WestJet Vacations booking, go to westjet.com/addvacationseats. Enter the WestJet PNR or WestJet record locator and any last name on the booking to get started.

Learn more about how to select seats in the how-to guides on the travel agent resource site – https://www.westjettravelagents.com .

TICO issues closure advisory for Canada Jetlines & Canada Jetlines Vacations

Four Seasons introduces new ultra-luxe private jet itinerary