WestJet Launches UltraBasic Fare: No Carry-On Baggage, No Seat Selection
WestJet Airlines is launching a new “no-frills fare” for budget-conscious travelers, known as UltraBasic. This fare is the most affordable option among seven fare classes and will replace WestJet’s Basic fare on domestic and transborder routes, as announced in a press release on June 4.
John Weatherill, WestJet’s Chief Commercial Officer, stated, “We are dedicated to making air travel more affordable, and UltraBasic is an innovative, cost-effective solution that allows WestJet to offer budget-friendly airfares to a wider range of destinations.”
Passengers choosing UltraBasic will have seats assigned at the back of the aircraft and will board last. They will not be allowed to store a carry-on bag in overhead bins unless on a transatlantic or transpacific flight. A personal item is permitted, as long as it fits under the seat.
Those who purchased a Basic fare before UltraBasic’s introduction can still bring a carry-on bag on all WestJet flights. Clear communication about UltraBasic and its restrictions will be provided throughout the booking process.
Related Stories
The airline stated that digital and printed boarding passes will specify that no carry-on bags are allowed with UltraBasic fares.
UltraBasic gives passengers the flexibility to tailor their travel experience to meet their needs without paying for extra services they don’t need, according to Mr. Weatherill.
While UltraBasic travelers will have access to food, beverages, and inflight entertainment, they won’t earn WestJet rewards. Some online travel services have criticized UltraBasic, suggesting that it doesn’t offer good value to travelers.
‘Same Price for Less Value’
Next Departure and Prince of Travel have questioned the value of UltraBasic fares, noting that the fare type may not offer much beyond a seat on the plane. Paying for additional services on top of an UltraBasic fare may not be beneficial for most passengers.
One Mile At a Time described UltraBasic as a punitive fare that assigns passengers less desirable seats in advance. The airline assures that the introduction of UltraBasic will result in reduced prices across all routes and improve on-time performance and guest experience.
WestJet’s move to offer UltraBasic follows its acquisition of Sunwing Airlines and the closure of its ultra-low-cost airline, Swoop, last fall. Similar to Edmonton-based Flair Airlines, WestJet will now provide a discounted fare option that only allows a free personal bag.
In the past, checked bags were included in the cost of airline tickets in Canada until 2014 when WestJet and Air Canada began charging fees for checked baggage. The goal of UltraBasic is to streamline the boarding process and enhance the overall guest experience.
The Canadian Press contributed to this report.
