WestJet Group offers update on its response to rising fuel prices

In an update, the WestJet Group says that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz has strained global oil supplies and led to a spike in the price of oil and a larger increase in the price of jet fuel, which typically accounts for approximately 20% of an airline’s costs.

Due to the continued increase in fuel costs, the WestJet Group is implementing near-term measures, including a temporary fuel surcharge on WestJet Rewards Companion Vouchers, a fuel surcharge on Sunwing Vacations and Vacances WestJet Québec vacation packages and consolidating flights on lower demand routes.

Companion voucher surcharge details 

The company said that beginning April 8, WestJet will introduce a temporary fuel surcharge of $60 on all bookings made with a WestJet Rewards companion voucher. This will be reflected in the “Other ATC” portion of companion voucher bookings, and we will continue to assess the surcharge and adjust as conditions allow.

Fuel is the largest contributor to airline operating costs, and a temporary surcharge helps us manage the recent surge in fuel prices. While airfares can be adjusted and have greater flexibility in pricing, the nature of our companion vouchers does not allow for this same flexibility.

Sunwing Vacations and Vacances WestJet Québec surcharge details

It also advised that a fuel surcharge of $50 per person will apply to all bookings made as of April 14 (existing travellers/bookings will not be affected).

This surcharge will be included within the regular taxes and fees at the time of booking and is applicable to all Sunwing and Vacances WestJet Québec bookings.

WestJet airfares and WestJet Vacations packages reflect current operating costs and will continue to fluctuate based on market supply and demand.

And it closed by saying that: “We appreciate our guests’ understanding as we navigate these unprecedented cost pressures and remain committed to providing exceptional travel experiences to our guests.”