WestJet replaces Basic fare with bare-bones UltraBasic option

WestJet has made a change to its offerings and it hasn’t been met with much fanfare.

The Canadian airline announced today that, effective immediately, its Basic fare has been replaced with an UltraBasic fare, WestJet’s new lowest-priced option.

It was described by the airline as a “no-frills fare.”

Introducing, UltraBasic - @WestJet’s no frills fare bundle option designed to give guests the choice to add certain extras like reserving a seat in advance or adding a checked bag. Learn more here: https://t.co/ZedVG6gs7R

— WestJet News (@WestJetNews) June 4, 2024

“We are committed to air travel affordability, and UltraBasic is an innovative cost-effective solution that strengthens WestJet’s ability to offer guests budget-friendly airfares to more destinations,” said executive vice-president John Weatherill.

“With UltraBasic, guests can tailor a travel experience that meets their needs, without paying for additional services they don’t value. We are delivering on our low-fare promise and believe UltraBasic will give more Canadians the opportunity to fly.”

Travellers booking a flight with WestJet can expect the following with an UltraBasic fare:

• Guests are not permitted a carry-on bag, but can have a personal item to be stored under the seat.
• Guests will board the airline last and get a pre-assigned seat at the back of the aircraft.
• Guests will have the option to add checked baggage, seat selection or “extended comfort” for additional fees.

The airline promises that the introduction of UltraBasic fares will result in price reductions for domestic and international flights.

“UltraBasic is a key part of WestJet’s larger strategy and has been thoughtfully designed to provide more choice and make air travel more accessible for guests from coast-to-coast,” said a statement from WestJet.

“It is anticipated that the introduction of UltraBasic will expedite the boarding process, contributing to enhanced on time performance and a better guest experience.”

While the airline is touting the new fare as a positive change, the early impressions from Canadians online can only be described as negative.

“This is sad to see. Every day our aviation sector is going backwards,” wrote one user on X, who added that they hope Air Canada doesn’t follow suit.

“So basically you’ll offer seats at the same price as the Basic fare, but with fewer features,” asked another user.

Others described the change as “horrible,” “awful,” “trash” and “evil corporate greed,” among other things, with plenty saying that they plan on cancelling their WestJet Mastercards.

While Basic fares no longer exist, WestJet says any guests who purchased a Basic fare prior to today will still be permitted a carry-on bag for their future flight.