What To Know
- To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a comprehensive comparison of Air Canada and WestJet, covering everything from their loyalty programs to their in-flight amenities.
- Air Canada has a more extensive route network than WestJet, with a wider range of international destinations.
- If you prioritize loyalty rewards, a wide route network, and premium amenities, Air Canada is a good choice.
When it comes to air travel in Canada, two airlines dominate the market: Air Canada and WestJet. Both carriers offer a wide range of services and routes, making it difficult for travelers to determine which one is the better choice. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a comprehensive comparison of Air Canada and WestJet, covering everything from their loyalty programs to their in-flight amenities.
Loyalty Programs
Air Canada Aeroplan
- Earning points: Earn points on flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and everyday purchases with the Aeroplan credit card.
- Redeeming points: Redeem points for flights, upgrades, hotel stays, and more.
- Elite status: Earn elite status based on your annual spending and flying activity, which provides perks such as priority boarding, lounge access, and bonus points.
WestJet Rewards
- Earning points: Earn points on flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and everyday purchases with the WestJet Rewards credit card.
- Redeeming points: Redeem points for flights, upgrades, hotel stays, and more.
- Elite status: Earn elite status based on your annual spending and flying activity, which provides perks such as priority boarding, lounge access, and bonus points.
Comparison: Both Air Canada Aeroplan and WestJet Rewards offer similar earning and redemption options. However, Air Canada Aeroplan has a wider range of partners, including major airlines like United and Lufthansa, which can provide more flexibility for redeeming points.
In-Flight Amenities
Air Canada
- Economy Class: Reclining seats, personal entertainment systems, and complimentary snacks and drinks.
- Premium Economy Class: More legroom, wider seats, and enhanced meal service.
- Business Class: Lie-flat seats, gourmet dining, and exclusive lounge access.
WestJet
- Economy Class: Reclining seats, personal entertainment systems, and complimentary snacks and drinks.
- Premium Economy Class: More legroom, wider seats, and priority boarding.
- Business Class: Lie-flat seats, gourmet dining, and priority check-in.
Comparison: Both Air Canada and WestJet offer comfortable seating and amenities in economy class. However, Air Canada has a wider selection of premium cabin options, including a lie-flat business class seat.
Route Network
Air Canada
- Domestic: Over 60 destinations within Canada.
- International: Over 200 destinations worldwide, including major cities in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
WestJet
- Domestic: Over 50 destinations within Canada.
- International: Over 100 destinations worldwide, primarily in the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
Comparison: Air Canada has a more extensive route network than WestJet, with a wider range of international destinations. However, WestJet has a stronger presence in smaller Canadian cities and offers more flights to popular vacation destinations.
Baggage Fees
Air Canada
- Checked Baggage: $30 for the first checked bag, $50 for the second checked bag, and $100 for the third checked bag.
- Carry-On Baggage: One carry-on bag and one personal item are permitted free of charge.
WestJet
- Checked Baggage: $30 for the first checked bag, $50 for the second checked bag, and $100 for the third checked bag.
- Carry-On Baggage: One carry-on bag and one personal item are permitted free of charge.
Comparison: Both Air Canada and WestJet have similar baggage fees. However, WestJet offers a slightly lower rate for checked baggage.
Customer Service
Air Canada
- Phone Support: Available 24/7.
- Online Support: Available through the Air Canada website and mobile app.
- Social Media Support: Active on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
WestJet
- Phone Support: Available 24/7.
- Online Support: Available through the WestJet website and mobile app.
- Social Media Support: Active on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Comparison: Both Air Canada and WestJet offer a range of customer support options. However, WestJet has a slightly higher customer satisfaction rating based on independent surveys.
Pricing
Air Canada
- Ticket Prices: Generally higher than WestJet for comparable flights.
- Promotions and Discounts: Offers regular promotions and discounts, including seasonal sales and loyalty program rewards.
WestJet
- Ticket Prices: Generally lower than Air Canada for comparable flights.
- Promotions and Discounts: Frequently offers low-fare sales and discounts, especially for advance bookings.
Comparison: WestJet typically has lower ticket prices than Air Canada, but Air Canada may offer more flexible pricing options and loyalty program benefits.
Which Airline Is Better?
Ultimately, the best airline for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize loyalty rewards, a wide route network, and premium amenities, Air Canada is a good choice. If you prefer lower ticket prices, a strong domestic presence, and excellent customer service, WestJet is a better option.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice
Choosing between Air Canada and WestJet is a personal decision that should be based on your specific travel requirements and budget. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this comparison, you can make an informed choice that will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.
