Yes, you can reschedule your WestJet flight by following specific policies and procedures, often with fees or fare differences applied.
Understanding WestJet’s Rescheduling Policies
WestJet offers flexibility for passengers needing to change their travel plans, but the process and costs depend heavily on the type of fare purchased and the timing of your request. Unlike some airlines with rigid change policies, WestJet provides options that vary from no-fee changes on certain fares to charges on others.
The first key point is recognizing that WestJet categorizes its fares into different classes: Economy (Flex, Standard), Premium, and Business. Flex fares generally allow free changes until a certain period before departure, while Standard fares usually involve change fees plus any fare difference. Premium and Business classes tend to offer more leniency with fewer or no fees.
Timing is crucial. Changes made well in advance are often cheaper or free. If you attempt to reschedule close to departure or after the flight has left, options become limited or non-existent. Also, if your flight was booked through a third-party agent or travel site, the rescheduling must often be handled through them.
How to Reschedule Your WestJet Flight
Rescheduling can be done online through WestJet’s official website or mobile app, which is the fastest method. You’ll need your booking confirmation number and passenger details handy. After logging in:
- Navigate to “Manage Trips.”
- Select the flight you want to change.
- Choose “Change Flight” and follow prompts.
- Review any applicable fees or fare differences.
- Confirm changes and pay any required amount.
If you prefer human assistance, calling WestJet’s customer service is an option. However, wait times can vary depending on demand and time of day.
In some cases, especially for group bookings or complex itineraries involving multiple segments, contacting customer service directly may be necessary to ensure all connections are adjusted correctly.
Fees and Fare Differences Explained
Changing a flight isn’t always free. Fees depend on your original ticket type and when you make the change. Here’s how it breaks down:
| Fare Type | Change Fee | Fare Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Flex Economy | No fee if changed>24 hrs before departure | You pay any increase in fare price |
| Standard Economy | $100 CAD (approx.) per change | You pay any increase in fare price |
| Premium & Business Class | No fee or minimal fee depending on route | You pay any increase in fare price |
The “fare difference” means if your new flight costs more than your original ticket, you must pay the difference. If it costs less, typically no refund is given for the price difference unless you purchased a refundable ticket.
Keep in mind that these fees can fluctuate based on promotions or changes in company policy but generally follow this structure.
Special Circumstances Affecting Rescheduling
Certain situations may alter how rescheduling works with WestJet:
- Flight cancellations by WestJet: If your original flight is canceled by the airline, you usually get a free rebooking option without fees.
- Travel disruptions: Severe weather or operational issues might open up more flexible rebooking windows.
- COVID-19 policies: During peak pandemic periods, WestJet introduced more lenient change policies; some of these remain but check current terms.
- Awards tickets: Flights booked with WestJet dollars or partner miles may have different rules for rescheduling.
Always verify these exceptions directly with WestJet as they can save money and hassle.
The Impact of Timing on Rescheduling Your Flight
The timing of your request plays a huge role in how smooth and affordable rescheduling will be. Generally:
- More than 24 hours before departure: Easier to change with lower or no fees (depending on fare).
- Within 24 hours of departure: Higher fees apply; availability may be limited.
- Dropped from flight (no-show): Usually no chance to reschedule without buying a new ticket unless prior arrangements were made.
If you anticipate changes might be necessary when booking initially, opting for a Flex fare might save money overall despite higher upfront costs.
The Online Process vs Customer Service Calls
Online self-service is fast and convenient but has limitations:
- You can only change flights booked directly through WestJet’s platform.
- The system won’t always show all available options for complex itineraries.
- If payment issues arise during rescheduling online, customer support may be needed.
Calling customer service offers personalized help but expect longer wait times during peak travel seasons. Agents can sometimes waive fees under special circumstances but this isn’t guaranteed.
The Role of Travel Insurance in Flight Changes
Travel insurance can cover unexpected cancellations or changes due to illness or emergencies not related to airline policy. If you have insurance that includes trip interruption coverage:
- You may recover costs associated with changing flights beyond what WestJet charges.
- This could include non-refundable portions of tickets or additional accommodation expenses due to delays.
- You’ll need documentation like medical certificates or proof of emergency when filing claims.
While insurance doesn’t replace airline policy rules about rescheduling itself, it provides financial protection if unforeseen events force last-minute changes.
Avoiding Common Mistakes When Rescheduling Your Flight
Passengers sometimes stumble into avoidable issues such as:
- Mistiming their request: Waiting too long reduces options and increases fees dramatically.
- Mismatching connections: Changing one leg without adjusting connecting flights causes missed flights downstream.
- Inefficient communication: Booking through third parties but contacting WestJet directly leads nowhere; always use correct channels.
- Ignoring fare conditions: Not reading fine print means unexpected charges pop up after changes are made.
Double-check all details before confirming any new booking to avoid surprises at the airport.
Your Rights Under Canadian Aviation Regulations Regarding Flight Changes
Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations give passengers some protections when airlines make schedule changes but don’t guarantee free rescheduling for voluntary passenger requests.
Key points include:
- If an airline cancels your flight within control (not weather), they must provide alternate transportation without extra cost.
- If delays exceed certain thresholds caused by airline fault, compensation might apply—but voluntary reschedules initiated by passengers typically incur standard fees.
- The regulations require airlines like WestJet to clearly disclose their policies about changes at booking time so consumers know what they’re agreeing to.
Understanding these rights helps passengers negotiate better outcomes when disruptions occur beyond their control.
Key Takeaways: Can I Reschedule My WestJet Flight?
➤ Rescheduling is allowed but may incur fees or fare differences.
➤ Changes must be made before the flight’s scheduled departure.
➤ Flexible fares often allow free or lower-cost changes.
➤ Contact WestJet directly for the most accurate policies.
➤ Check your ticket type to understand your change options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reschedule my WestJet flight online?
Yes, you can reschedule your WestJet flight online through their official website or mobile app. Simply log in, navigate to “Manage Trips,” select your flight, and follow the prompts to change your booking. Be prepared to review any applicable fees or fare differences before confirming.
Can I reschedule my WestJet flight without paying a fee?
Whether you can reschedule without a fee depends on your fare type. Flex Economy fares usually allow free changes if made more than 24 hours before departure. Standard Economy fares generally incur a change fee plus any fare difference. Premium and Business classes often have fewer or no fees.
Can I reschedule my WestJet flight close to departure?
Rescheduling close to departure is possible but may involve higher fees or limited options. Changes made well in advance are often cheaper or free, while last-minute changes might not be allowed or could be subject to additional charges depending on your fare type.
Can I reschedule my WestJet flight if I booked through a third-party agent?
If you booked your WestJet flight via a third-party agent or travel website, you usually need to contact them directly to reschedule. WestJet’s policies require changes to be handled through the original booking channel in such cases, which may affect timing and fees.
Can I call WestJet customer service to reschedule my flight?
Yes, you can call WestJet customer service to reschedule your flight. This option is helpful for complex itineraries or group bookings but be aware that wait times can vary depending on demand and time of day. Customer service can assist with all necessary adjustments.