How To Get Upgrade On Westjet?

By Author: Rafael Thomos
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Guide to Upgrading Your Seats on WestJet Airlines

Traveling on an airplane can be stressful and uncomfortable, especially if you are stuck in a cramped seat for hours on end. Upgrading your seats on WestJet can make your flight much more enjoyable by providing additional legroom, comfort and amenities. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting a seat upgrade on WestJet airlines.
Overview of Seat Options on WestJet

WestJet offers several different seat options and classes beyond the standard economy seats. Understanding the different products available is key to choosing the best seat for your needs and budget.
Basic Seats

Basic seats are the standard economy class seats included with your ticket fare. These seats have a pitch of 31-32 inches and are arranged in a 3-3 configuration on WestJet's 737 aircraft. Basic seats do not provide additional legroom or amenities.
Plus Seats

Plus seats are located near the front of the economy cabin and have an extra 2-3 inches of legroom compared to basic seats. There is an upcharge to select these seats, ranging ...
... from $15-$50 CAD depending on route and demand. Plus seats allow you to stretch out a bit more and get off the plane quicker.
Premium Seats

Premium seats are enhanced economy seats located at the front of the cabin behind business class. They have an increased pitch of 36 inches and feature additional legroom. Premium seats cost $50-$100 CAD more than basic seats depending on the flight. You’ll enjoy priority boarding and complimentary snacks and alcoholic drinks.
Business Cabin

WestJet's business cabin is a dedicated section with lie-flat pods in a 2-2 configuration. This premium product includes lounge access, priority services, enhanced dining, and more. Business class costs significantly more than economy, usually $400-$1200 CAD extra per segment.
Tips for Choosing the Best Seats on WestJet

Here are some tips to select the optimal seats for your flight on WestJet:

Seats in the first few rows of economy will board early and deplane first. However, these seats don’t recline.
Exit row seats have ample legroom but don’t allow bags to be stored underneath during takeoff and landing.
Seats right behind business class have the most space in economy. They also tend to be quieter.
Seats in the back of the plane are bumpier but are closer to lavatories.
Avoid seats in the last row, which don't recline.
Use SeatGuru.com to compare specific seats on your aircraft.
Paying a small fee for Plus seats can be worthwhile for a long flight.
Consider splurging on Premium seats for red-eyes or busy routes to get more comfortable.

How to Upgrade Your Seats on WestJet

Here are the different methods to WestJet Seat upgrade economy seats to Plus, Premium, or Business Class on WestJet:

Bid for an Upgrade Online

Log into your booking and click "Make Changes"
Select "Manage Seats" then choose your desired seat type
Enter the maximum you're willing to pay for an upgrade
WestJet will confirm if your bid was successful within 48 hours

Use Credits to Upgrade

WestJet dollars and Travel Bank credits can be redeemed for seat upgrades
Log into your WestJet Rewards account and visit the book flight page
Pick your new seat and pay the remainder of the upgrade cost with WestJet dollars

Purchase at Check-In

Arrive early at the airport to speak with a WestJet agent at the check-in desk
Ask about available seat upgrades and the price for that flight
Pay the quoted upgrade fee at check-in using credit/debit card

Call WestJet Directly

Contact WestJet at 1-888-937-8538 to discuss upgrade options
Agents can provide real-time upgrade pricing and book the upgrades for you
This option is best for complex itineraries with connections

Use a Travel Agent

Contact your travel agent to help with the upgrade process
They can use their access to find and book seat upgrades on your behalf
Travel agents may be able to access deals not visible to customers

What Does it Cost to Upgrade on WestJet?

The price to upgrade your seat on WestJet can vary substantially based on the route, date, cabin, and availability. Here are some typical costs:

Plus seats: $15-$60 CAD per segment
Premium seats: $50-$150 CAD per segment
Business class: $400-$1200+ CAD per segment
Prices are highest on busy routes and peak travel dates
Shorter flights tend to have lower upgrade fees
Using credits or bidding can sometimes result in big discounts
Travel agents may access unpublished promotional upgrade rates

Maximizing Your Chances of a Free Upgrade

While paying is the only sure-fire way to guarantee an upgrade, there are some things you can do to potentially get a free bump up to a better seat:

Book early when upgrade inventory is wide open
Enroll in WestJet Rewards to boost your status
Travel light without checked bags
Politely ask at check-in if any complimentary upgrades are available
Travel outside of peak vacation seasons to increase chances
Have the WestJet credit card to get annual upgrade vouchers
Get upgraded as a family since more seats may be available

However, free upgrades are never guaranteed and should not be expected when flying WestJet. Focus on booking the right class for you from the start if an upgraded seat is vital.
Can You Upgrade at the Gate?

Last-minute upgrades at the gate are highly unlikely on WestJet. Since seats are assigned in advance, ground staff at the gate are unable to reallocate seating right before boarding. Some gate agents may make exceptions for passengers with emergencies or special circumstances, but routine upgrades are not provided at the gate.

Purchasing upgrades is best done online in advance or at airport check-in counters ahead of the flight. Trying to get a last minute free upgrade at the gate should be seen as a pleasant surprise rather than an expectation when flying WestJet.
Frequently Asked Questions About WestJet Upgrades

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about upgrading seats on WestJet:

How soon before my flight can I bid to upgrade?

You can bid for an upgrade as soon as booking is available up until 48 hours before departure.

What if my upgrade bid is rejected?

If your bid is rejected, you can submit a new higher bid for consideration. Your original seat is still booked if you aren’t upgraded.

If I purchase Plus, do I get free changes?

No, Plus seats must be canceled within 24 hours for a full refund to the original form of payment.

Can I use WestJet dollars to upgrade on partner airlines?

No, WestJet dollars can only be redeemed when flying WestJet-operated flights.

Do upgrades earn additional WestJet Rewards?

Yes, the fare difference between your original seat and the upgraded seat earns additional reward dollars.

What’s the best way to get a business class upgrade?

Booking the most flexible business fare, using Plus points, or bidding high early are the best ways to upgrade to business class.
Final Tips for Upgrading on WestJet

Compare upgrade costs for all legs - some may be cheaper than others
Know when to bid high for important trips vs when to try your luck
Purchase Plus seats as needed for some extra comfort without the huge spend
Utilize all available credits and vouchers to lower cash upgrade fees
For long hauls, upgrading is worthwhile to arrive well-rested
On short hops, you may be fine saving money and sticking to basic economy
Upgrading seat location is just as important as the cabin/class you select

By understanding WestJet's various seating options and the costs to upgrade, you can pick the best seats for your travel needs and budget. Follow these tips to comfortably upgrade your flight experience.