When planning a flight, selecting the right seat can significantly enhance your travel experience. Whether you prefer a window seat to enjoy scenic views or an aisle seat for easy access to the restroom, choosing where you sit is an important consideration. WestJet Airlines, one of Canada’s major carriers, offers a variety of seating options and policies that give passengers the ability to select seats based on their preferences and needs. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about WestJet Airlines seat selection, including how to choose a seat, the different types of seats available, seat selection fees, and tips for making the most of your seat choice.
Overview of WestJet Airlines
Before diving into the details of seat selection, it’s helpful to understand a bit about WestJet Airlines. Founded in 1996, WestJet has grown from a small, low-cost carrier to one of the largest airlines in Canada. The airline operates an extensive network of domestic and international flights, serving over 100 destinations across North America, Europe, Central America, and the Caribbean.
WestJet is known for its friendly service and competitive pricing, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking value without compromising on quality. In addition to its mainline service, WestJet operates WestJet Encore, a regional airline, and WestJet Link, which connects smaller communities to WestJet’s larger network.
WestJet Airlines Seat Selection: Can You Choose Your Seat?
Yes, WestJet Airlines allows passengers to choose their seats, but the specifics depend on factors such as fare type, timing, and the availability of seats. Seat selection is generally offered through the airline’s website, mobile app, or during check-in at the airport. Passengers can choose their seats when booking their flight or later during check-in, though fees may apply in certain circumstances.
Let’s break down the process and options for WestJet Airlines seat selection.
Types of Seats Available on WestJet Airlines
WestJet Airlines seat selection policy is flexible, and diverse. It offers a range of seating options to cater to different passenger needs and preferences. Here are the key types of seats available:
1. Standard Seats
Standard seats are the most common seats on WestJet flights and are available throughout the cabin. These seats offer a comfortable experience for most travelers and are included in the basic fare of most ticket types. However, passengers may need to pay a fee for advanced seat selection depending on their fare class and when they make the selection.
2. Preferred Seats
Preferred seats are located in the front of the aircraft, typically closer to the boarding door and lavatories. These seats offer easier access to deplaning and may have additional legroom compared to standard seats. Preferred seats are often more expensive than standard seats due to their more convenient location.
3. Premium Economy Seats (WestJet Premium)
For those looking for more comfort, WestJet Premium offers a premium economy experience. Premium seats come with extra legroom, wider seats, and additional amenities such as priority boarding and complimentary meals and beverages. WestJet Premium passengers also benefit from larger baggage allowances and access to airport lounges (where available).
4. Exit Row Seats
Exit row seats are located next to the emergency exits and offer extra legroom compared to standard seats. Passengers sitting in exit row seats must meet certain eligibility criteria, such as being able to assist in an emergency and not requiring assistance during the flight. Exit row seats are highly sought after for the extra space they provide and often come with an additional fee.
5. Business Class (WestJet Business)
On certain international and long-haul routes, WestJet offers Business Class seating. These seats provide the highest level of comfort, with features such as lie-flat beds, enhanced dining options, personal entertainment systems, and priority services. Seat selection in Business Class is generally included in the fare, and passengers can choose their seats at the time of booking.
How to Choose Your Seat on WestJet Airlines?
WestJet Airlines provides multiple options for passengers to select their seats. Depending on your preferences, budget, and travel class, you can choose your seat during different stages of the booking process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to selecting your seat:
1. During Flight Booking
The easiest way to select your seat is during the booking process. When you book your flight on the WestJet website or mobile app, you’ll be prompted to choose your seat after you have selected your flight and entered your passenger information. The seat map will display available seats, allowing you to choose from standard, preferred, or premium seats, depending on your ticket type and the aircraft layout.
2. After Booking but Before Check-In
If you missed choosing your seat when booking your reservation, there isn’t much to worry about. There’s still time, and you can make the seat selection later, prior to checking in. WestJet allows passengers to access their booking online through the “Manage Trips” section on their website or mobile app. Here, you can view the seat map and choose your preferred seat for a fee if applicable.
3. During Check-In
If you missed selecting your seat prior to checking in, you can do the same later when you do a web or airport check-in. WestJet’s online check-in opens 24 hours before departure, and you can select a seat at this time based on availability. While some seats may still be available for free, more desirable seats like exit rows or preferred seats may come with a fee. If you’re checking in at the airport, the check-in kiosk or counter agent can also help you select a seat.
Fees for WestJet Airlines Seat Selection
The cost of selecting a seat on WestJet Airlines can vary based on several factors, including the type of seat, fare class, and the timing of the selection. While some seats may be available at no extra cost, others may come with additional fees. Here’s a breakdown of potential seat selection costs:
1. Basic Fare
Passengers who purchase WestJet’s Basic fare, the airline’s lowest-cost fare option, typically do not have seat selection included in the price. If you want to choose your seat in advance, you will likely need to pay a fee. The exact fee depends on the route, seat type, and timing of the selection. If you choose not to select a seat, WestJet will assign one to you for free at check-in.
2. Standard Fare
For passengers who book a Standard fare, seat selection is not always included in the ticket price, but it may be available at a reduced cost compared to Basic fare passengers. You can select your seat in advance for a fee, or you can wait until check-in when some seats may still be available for free.
3. Premium Fare
Passengers traveling on WestJet’s Premium fare generally have seat selection included as part of their ticket. This includes choosing seats in the Premium cabin, which offers extra legroom and additional amenities. Premium fare passengers do not typically have to pay extra for seat selection, though some preferred or exit row seats may still incur an additional charge depending on the route.
4. Business Class Fare
For those traveling in Business Class, seat selection is generally included in the fare. Passengers can choose their seats at the time of booking without incurring any additional fees. Business Class travelers can enjoy a more luxurious seating experience, with more space, enhanced service, and priority boarding.
How Seat Selection Fees Are Calculated?
WestJet Airlines seat selection fees is based on a dynamic pricing model, meaning that the cost of selecting a seat can vary based on factors such as demand, the type of seat, and the flight’s duration and destination. Generally, the closer you are to the front of the plane or the more legroom a seat offers, the higher the fee will be. Fees for preferred seats, exit row seats, and seats with extra legroom tend to be higher than for standard seats.
Seat selection fees are displayed during the booking process or when you access your booking online, so passengers can review and choose based on their budget and preferences.
Read Also: Name Change On WestJet Airlines
WestJet Rewards and Seat Selection
WestJet’s frequent flyer program, WestJet Rewards, offers benefits that can impact seat selection. Members of WestJet Rewards earn WestJet dollars for every eligible flight, which can be redeemed for future travel. Additionally, members with elite status (Silver, Gold, or Platinum) enjoy certain perks, such as complimentary seat selection for themselves and their travel companions.
Silver Members: Silver tier members are eligible for free standard seat selection and discounted preferred seat selection.
Gold Members: Gold tier members receive complimentary standard and preferred seat selection.
Platinum Members: Platinum tier members benefit from complimentary seat selection for all seat types, including exit row and premium seats.
Seat Selection for Families and Special Needs Passengers
WestJet Airlines seat selection takes care to accommodate families and passengers with special needs when it comes to seat selection.
1. Families with Children
For families traveling with children under the age of 14, WestJet makes every effort to seat parents and children together. While the airline recommends that families select seats in advance to ensure they are seated together, they will attempt to seat families in the same area even if no seat selection is made before check-in. This policy applies to all fare types, but choosing seats in advance is particularly important for Basic fare passengers who are not guaranteed seat selection.
2. Passengers with Special Needs
WestJet provides special assistance for passengers with disabilities or other special needs. Passengers who require assistance, such as those traveling with service animals or those needing help with boarding, should contact WestJet’s special assistance team in advance to ensure that their seating needs are accommodated. Exit row seats are not available for passengers with certain disabilities due to safety regulations.
WestJet Airlines Seat Selection: How to Choose the Best Seats?
Selecting the right seat can make a big difference in your comfort during the flight. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:
1. Book Early: Booking your reservation, and selecting your seats soon, opens the gateway for better options. Seats offering extra legroom are the most sought-after ones, that get filled up instantly.
2. Consider Your Priorities: Think about what’s most important to you during the flight. Do you prefer extra legroom, or do you want to be closer to the front of the plane for a quick exit? Knowing your priorities will help guide your seat selection.
3. Upgrade to Premium: If comfort is a top priority, consider upgrading to WestJet Premium or Business Class for a more spacious and luxurious experience.
4. Take Advantage of WestJet Rewards: If you’re a frequent WestJet traveler, consider joining WestJet Rewards to earn status and unlock free seat selection benefits.
Conclusion
WestJet Airlines seat selection options are diverse, and various to accommodate different passenger preferences and budgets. Whether you’re flying on a domestic route or a long-haul international flight, you can choose from standard, preferred, exit row, premium, or business class seats. While fees may apply for certain seats and fare types, passengers have the flexibility to select a seat that best suits their needs. By booking early and understanding the options available, you can enhance your flying experience with WestJet Airlines.
In summary, yes, as per the WestJet Airlines seat selection policy you can definitely choose your suits—just be aware of the fees and benefits associated with your fare class and travel preferences. Safe travels!
FAQs
Yes, in most cases, you have to pay to select a seat on WestJet Airlines, depending on the fare class and the type of seat you want. For passengers who book the **Basic fare**, seat selection is generally not included, and a fee will apply if you want to choose your seat in advance. Passengers traveling on **Standard fare** may also need to pay for seat selection, although some seats may be available at no extra cost during check-in. **Premium fare** passengers typically have seat selection included, and **Business Class** travelers can choose their seats for free. Fees vary based on the seat type, such as preferred, exit row, or extra legroom seats.
Yes, you can pick your seats on WestJet Airlines. Passengers have the option to select their seats during the booking process, after booking (through the “Manage Trips” section), or during check-in. Seat selection is offered for standard, preferred, premium, and exit row seats, though fees may apply depending on the seat type and fare class. If you don’t choose a seat, WestJet will assign one to you at check-in.
Preferred seats on WestJet Airlines are located in the front of the aircraft, offering passengers more convenience in terms of quicker boarding and deplaning. Some preferred seats may also have additional legroom compared to standard seats. These seats are typically available for an extra fee, depending on the fare type and availability. Preferred seats are a popular choice for travelers who want to be closer to the front of the plane or who prefer a bit more space for comfort.