CALGARY- If you fly with Calgary-based WestJet, you're in for some big changes.
Starting in April, passengers will be restricted to one piece of carry-on luggage, instead of two. The airline is also bringing in three-tier ticket prices.
The airline announced the change to its carry-on policy on Tuesday, saying the change in the baggage allowance will benefit both the airline and passengers.
"Fewer carry-on items will mean more room for everyone's baggage, and faster and more efficient boarding. This, in turn, helps us stay on time,” says Bob Cummings, executive VP of sales and marketing.
The airline’s one-item limit for small personal items such as purses or laptops will remain unchanged.
Cummings says the new one-bag policy, which takes effect April 4, is also consistent with other airlines whose flights connect with WestJet.
And for the first time since WestJet’s launch, it is changing its one-fare policy.
It is now offering three different ticket prices—the basic economy fare, along with two higher priced options called “Flex” and “Plus.”
The higher priced tickets are aimed at business travellers and depending on which option a passenger chooses, will either eliminate or reduce fees for extra baggage, flight change or cancellation and advance seat selection.
WestJet admits the new pricing system is more complicated and could initially confuse customers.
© Global News. A division of Shaw Media Inc., 2013.