WestJet to reduce carry-on baggage allowance

Effective April 4, 2013, WestJet is updating the number of carry-on pieces guests are permitted to bring on board from two to one, plus one personal item.

The carry-on item (for example, a suitcase, backpack or bag) must be no larger than 21 inches by 9 inches by 15 inches, and it must fit in the WestJet sizing devices located in airports across the airline’s network.

If the item does not fit, it must be checked at the boarding gate and picked up upon arrival at the baggage carousel.

Personal items include small purses, laptop bags or mobility or child restraint devices.

For parents travelling with infants, a diaper bag is permitted over and above the carry-on allowance.

“Updating our baggage allowance has many benefits,” said Bob Cummings, WestJet executive vice-president, sales, marketing and guest experience. “Fewer carry-on items will mean more room for everyone’s baggage, and faster and more efficient boarding. This, in turn, helps us stay on time. It will also create a more consistent experience for guests travelling between WestJet and WestJet Encore beginning later this spring, as well as for guests connecting to and from flights offered by our codeshare and interline partners, most of whom have already adopted this standard.”