Westjet are bastards
This they tell me AFTER I buy my ticket:
Starting Thursday, July 3, 2008, WestJet will be implementing changes to our checked baggage weight allowance. The baggage weight allowance will be reduced from 60 lb (27 kg) to 50 lb (23 kg). This change to our baggage allowance will apply to all flights taken after July 3, 2008.
Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.
I have no problem with them doing this sort of thing, reducing the allowance, or charging a fuel surcharge. Gas is expensive, an there’s a new carbon tax they have to pay at their Vancouver hub. That’s sound business. But, hold up – I bought my ticket two weeks ago. When I bought that ticket, I was promissed 60lbs of checked baggage.
My flight is on Saturday – so with 4 days notice they change the rules and make me pay more.
It what other business is that acceptable or even legal?
–I just got the same email from them and sent back a nasty response. They came back with:
I am sorry you are upset with our changes to our baggage restrictions and fees. When you made your booking, the luggage restrictions indicated on your itinerary were correct at that time, however as you are aware, this has since changed.
Our tariff, in line with tariffs of all major air carriers, does permit us to change our guidelines at any time. Nevertheless, I realize the disappointment this has created for you on your upcoming trip tomorrow.
The changes in our baggage restrictions has commenced for all flights as of today. We announced these changes to allow guests traveling on or after this date, to have advance notice so they may plan their luggage packing accordingly. This will give them the opportunity to alleviate any additional charges or to be forewarned of what to expect if you they plan to have extra baggage.
–So basically, everyone else is doing it, you should consider yourself lucky we told you, and we can do whatever we want. It’s disgusting…
Scott
July 3, 2008 at 4:46 pm
For the record they let me take on 75lbs of checked bags with no extra charge and we’re quite nice during the flight.
Robert
July 7, 2008 at 5:08 am
Hi,
I work at WestJet and I know that we’re usually pretty good about fixing things when folks are angry about some of the changes we make. I don’t know if there’s a solution that will fully satisfy, but have you given the Guest Relations group a chance to see if there is anything?
Can’t hurt to try. http://www.westjet.com. Then click on the contact us button then e-mail Guest Relations.
Rick
Rick
July 11, 2008 at 4:50 pm