WestJet to Pay $12.5 Million: If you flew with WestJet between 2014 and 2019 and paid for your first checked bag, you could be entitled to a refund as part of a $12.5 million class action settlement. This settlement addresses allegations that WestJet charged baggage fees on tickets where the first checked bag was supposed to be free. If you were one of the affected travelers, you may receive compensation in the form of WestJet Travel Bank credits.
WestJet to Pay $12.5 Million
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Settlement Amount | $12.5 million |
| Eligibility Period (Domestic) | Tickets issued on or after Sept 15, 2014; travel between Oct 29, 2014 – July 29, 2017 |
| Eligibility Period (International) | Tickets issued on or after Nov 3, 2015; travel between Jan 6, 2016 – Feb 27, 2019 |
| Compensation Type | WestJet Travel Bank credits ($10–$20) |
| Claim Deadline | February 10, 2025 (now closed) |
| Official Website | airlinebagfeesettlement.com |
The $12.5 million WestJet settlement is a win for consumers who were charged unfair baggage fees. While the claim window has closed, this case reminds all travelers of the importance of reviewing booking details. If you filed a claim, check your email or WestJet account to track your refund.
Understanding the WestJet Class Action Settlement
A class action lawsuit was filed against WestJet alleging that the airline improperly charged passengers for their first checked bag even when ticket conditions stated it was free. While WestJet has not admitted any wrongdoing, the airline agreed to settle for $12.5 million to resolve the dispute.
The funds will be distributed among eligible claimants in the form of WestJet Travel Bank credits, which can be used to book future flights.
Why Was WestJet Sued?
Between 2014 and 2019, many travelers were charged baggage fees they weren’t supposed to pay. The lawsuit claims WestJet’s marketing and ticketing may have led passengers to believe their first checked bag was included in the fare when it wasn’t.
In response, a settlement was reached to refund affected travelers through travel credits.
Who Qualifies for a Refund?
You may be eligible for compensation if you paid a baggage fee for your first checked bag on a WestJet flight during specific periods.
Domestic Flight Eligibility
You qualify if:
- You booked your ticket directly with WestJet.
- The ticket was issued on or after September 15, 2014.
- You traveled between October 29, 2014, and July 29, 2017.
International Flight Eligibility
You qualify if:
- You booked your ticket directly with WestJet.
- The ticket was issued on or after November 3, 2015.
- You traveled between January 6, 2016, and February 27, 2019.
Additional Criteria
- Your ticket indicated that your first checked bag was free.
- But you were still charged for that checked bag.
If all these conditions apply to your travel experience, you are part of the affected group.
What Will You Receive?
Eligible claimants are receiving WestJet Travel Bank credits, not cash. These credits:
- Are worth between $10 and $20 per valid claim.
- Can be used to book any WestJet flight.
- Are valid for 24 months from the date they’re issued.
- Are non-transferable, but you can use them to book tickets for friends or family.
WestJet to Pay $12.5 Million: How to Claim Your Refund
The official claims process has now closed. The deadline to file a claim was February 10, 2025. If you filed your claim before this date, here’s what you can expect:
Next Steps for Claimants
- You will receive an email confirmation from the settlement administrator.
- Your Travel Bank credit will be issued directly to your WestJet account.
- You can log in at westjet.com to check your Travel Bank balance.
For questions, the settlement administrator can be contacted via the details provided at airlinebagfeesettlement.com.
Why This Matters
Airlines are increasingly under scrutiny for hidden fees and misleading baggage policies. This class action is part of a broader movement to hold companies accountable and protect consumers.
If you travel often, always double-check baggage policies before booking:
- Read the fine print.
- Look for symbols or notices like “First bag included.”
- Take screenshots of fare details for your records.
$12,000 Stimulus for Families in April 2025; How Many Dependents Do You Need?
$533,290 Child Care Subsidy in Australia: Are You On the List Of Beneficiaries?
$69 Million for a Quarter? Discover the Rare Coins That Could Make You a Millionaire!
FAQs on WestJet to Pay $12.5 Million
1. I didn’t file a claim. Can I still get the refund?
No. The deadline to file a claim was February 10, 2025. Claims after this date are not accepted.
2. I booked through a travel agency. Am I eligible?
Only direct bookings with WestJet qualify. If you booked through a third party, you may not be eligible.
3. How do I use my Travel Bank credits?
Log in to your account on westjet.com. When booking a flight, select the option to apply Travel Bank credits during checkout.
4. What if I no longer have access to my WestJet account?
Contact WestJet customer service for help recovering your account to access your credit.
5. Will I have to pay taxes or fees on the Travel Bank credits?
No, the credits are applied as a discount during booking. Taxes and fees for flights still apply as usual.
