Key Takeaways
- UltraBasic offers a no-frills, lowest-priced fare with essential travel options.
- Guests can add checked baggage and seat selection for additional fees.
- Streamlined boarding enhances on-time performance and overall guest experience.
WestJet, a Canadian airline known for its commitment to affordable air travel, has unveiled a new fare offering called UltraBasic. Designed as a no-frills, lowest-priced option, UltraBasic replaces the previous Basic fare and introduces changes to carry-on baggage allowance and boarding procedures.
According to John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer, the introduction of UltraBasic aligns with the airline’s mission to provide cost-effective travel solutions for all guests. “UltraBasic is an innovative fare that strengthens WestJet’s ability to offer budget-friendly airfares to more destinations,” Weatherill stated, emphasizing the airline’s dedication to making air travel accessible across Canada.
Key Features of UltraBasic
- Personal item permitted, to be stored under the seat.
- Pre-assigned seat at the back of the aircraft.
- Option to add checked baggage and seat selection for additional fees.
- Access to purchase Extended Comfort for extra benefits.
- Onboard food and beverage offerings, along with WestJet Connect inflight entertainment and connectivity system.
- No carry-on bag allowed (except on transpacific and transatlantic routes).
- Last boarding zone.
UltraBasic is expected to contribute to price reductions across domestic and transborder routes, enabling more Canadians to fly. It is part of WestJet’s larger strategy to offer customizable and competitive travel options. Additionally, the streamlined boarding process is anticipated to enhance on-time performance and overall guest experience.
Booking and Airport Experience
During the booking process on WestJet.com, clear messaging about the fare’s limitations will be provided to ensure transparency. Digital and printed boarding passes will also indicate the no carry-on bag policy for UltraBasic fares.
At the airport, UltraBasic guests can add checked baggage to their reservation in advance or at the check-in counter. They will board the aircraft in the final boarding zone. Guests attempting to check a carry-on bag at the gate will be charged a checked bag fee and a service fee.
Transition from Basic to UltraBasic
With the introduction of UltraBasic, WestJet’s previous Basic fare offering will no longer exist. However, guests who purchased a Basic fare before June 4, 2024, will still be permitted to bring a carry-on bag on all WestJet flights.
WestJet’s other fare offerings, including Econo, EconoFlex, Premium, PremiumFlex, Business, and BusinessFlex, will continue to be available for guests seeking bundled options.
