WestJet Airlines Flight Change Fee – Cost, Fare Difference & Rules

Have your air travel plans changed due to unforeseen circumstances? If so, you can choose flight change options and easily switch to the next available flight. When it comes to flight changes, especially when you are flying with WestJet, you may start to think about how much it costs to change a flight on WestJet, what the process is, and more. Whether you are traveling to your favorite destination solo or with loved ones, you can find answers to all your questions by reviewing WestJet flight change rules and fee structure. This page covers everything you need, including costs, fare differences, rules, and step-by-step guidance for smooth, cost-effective WestJet flight changes. 

WestJet Flight Change Policy

WestJet's flight change policy revolves around the time you choose to change your flight and the type of fare you have purchased. Here are some of the key highlights of the WestJet flight change guidelines that you must keep in mind if you decide to change your flight: 

• WestJet's flight change policy applies to all fare options on every route.
• Flights booked within the past 24 hours are eligible for a free change until the 24 hours are complete.
• Under the 24-hour flight change rule, regardless of fare class, bookings made directly with WestJet can be changed for free.  
• Once the 24-hour grace period has passed, changing a flight incurs a service charge plus applicable fare difference and taxes.
• WestJet charges the flight change fee per direction, per person, each time. 
• The flight change fee may vary by route, fare type, and booking conditions.
• WestJet fares like UltraBasic are not eligible for flight changes.
• EconoFlex, PremiumFlex, and BusinessFlex fares do not incur any flight change fee; however, a difference in fare prices must apply. 
• Travelers must change the flight at least 2 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• For group fares, flight change rules and fees may vary. 
• In the case of member-exclusive fares, changes must be made after canceling the booking and then rebooking a new flight. 

WestJet Flight Change Fee vs. Fare Difference

When you change a WestJet flight, you will be charged a combined cost that includes the fare difference, change fee, and taxes. A change fee is basically a flat fee that an airline charges for offering ticket modification services. On the other hand, a fare difference is the price gap between the original ticket value and the new ticket value. A flight change fee typically starts at $50; however, under certain conditions, it can be nil. In contrast, if the new flight is more expensive, you must pay the extra cost, and if it is cheaper, depending on the policy, you may get a refund. 

For a flight change, WestJet lets you pay the fee and fare difference using multiple payment options, including cash, credit card, debit card, WestJet Travel Bank credits, and WestJet points if you have a frequent flyer membership and elite status. 

WestJet Same Day Flight Change

WestJet also allows travelers to change their flight schedule on the day of departure if they wish. However, the origin and destination must remain the same. If you have a plan to change your flight, you can request a same-day flight change with WestJet and easily switch to an earlier or later flight on the same calendar day. Keep the following conditions in mind:

• WestJet waives flight change fees for Gold and Platinum members on same-day changes.
• Same-day flight change does not apply to charter flights, the last flight of the day, or bookings with overnight connections. 

Quick Overview of WestJet Flight Change Fee for Each Fare

Note: Flight change fees for select fares are subject to change depending on destinations (Canada domestic, US transborder, or international long-haul). 

How to Change a WestJet Flight Step by Step

You can change a WestJet flight in several ways: online through its website & mobile app, or offline by contacting its representatives. Depending on how you booked your original WestJet flight ticket, you can choose the method that works best for you. Below, you'll find a step-by-step process for both options.

WestJet Flight Change Online

• Visit the official WestJet website or open its mobile app. 
• Navigate to the Manage Trips option from the menu.
• Enter your booking credentials, such as your PNR and last name.
• Click on the Get Flights button to fetch your booking summary. 
• Select your flight, make the necessary changes, and confirm.
• Go to the checkout page, review the change cost and fare difference.
• Pay the cost using your preferred payment method.
• Get confirmation via email instantly. 

WestJet Flight Change Offline

• Via Phone Call: If you want a personalized experience with a WestJet customer service representative for a flight change, consider this option. Call their helpline number to speak with a live person at WestJet about a flight change. Keep in mind that the WestJet customer service phone number varies by destination, and you can find the right one on their website. Call WestJet during their operating hours, especially off-peak times, to avoid long wait times. 
• At the Airport: If you arrive at the airport after your plans change, visit the airport service desk and ask a WestJet agent to change your flight without a long wait. Provide all your travel-related documents and explain your desired itinerary updates. The WestJet airport agent will make the necessary changes for you. An additional administrative fee will apply along with the flight change fee and fare difference.  

Final Thoughts

In the end, handling a flight change may seem difficult, but with the right knowledge and approach, it can be done easily. Check your fare rules and WestJet flight change guidelines, review associated fees and fare differences for your route, and use the 24-hour window to protect yourself from last-minute cost surprises and adjust your travel plan stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1. How can I change the flight date on my WestJet flight booking?

Ans: You can change your flight date through the Manage My Booking portal or by asking an agent at the airport for a same-day change. 

Q2. How can I avoid paying the flight change fee on WestJet?

Ans: By choosing flexible fares, changing your flight within 24 hours of booking, using WestJet Rewards member-exclusive fares, or adding a travel protection plan to your fare, you can help avoid the flight change fee. 

Q3. Can I change my WestJet flight booking for free if I booked it a week ago?

Ans: No, you cannot change your WestJet flight for free if you booked your ticket a week ago; a standard change fee applies unless you have a flexible fare. 

Q4. Why can't I change my WestJet flight on the same day?

Ans: You are unable to change your WestJet flight on the same day for many reasons, including booking an UltraBasic fare, traveling on a charter flight, only your flight is scheduled for the day, or it's the last flight of the day. 

Q5. Am I eligible for a flight change if I have purchased a basic fare on WestJet?

Ans: No, if you have purchased a basic fare like UltraBasic, unfortunately, you are not eligible for flight changes in accordance with the WestJet flight change policy unless you are making changes within 24 hours of booking.