About WestJet
WestJet is a Canadian low-cost carrier that's grown well past its budget-airline roots. Based out of Calgary (YYC), it operates 584 non-stop routes across 131 airports, which is a serious network for an airline that started as a scrappy alternative to Air Canada. The route map is heavily Canada-weighted — 391 of those routes stay domestic — but there's real reach into the US, Mexico, and even transatlantic flying. It's not in a major global alliance, which matters when you're planning connections, but as a standalone option for North American travel, it covers a lot of ground.
Why fly WestJet?
If you're based in western Canada or flying through YYC, WestJet is genuinely hard to beat on convenience. Calgary alone has 102 routes, meaning you can often skip a connection through Toronto entirely. The fare pricing tends to undercut Air Canada on overlapping routes, and the service reputation is warmer than your typical low-cost experience — flight attendants generally seem like they want to be there. For sun seekers, the 52 routes into Mexico make it a reliable winter escape option. The GRU-YYC route also means there's now a direct line between Brazil and Canada that didn't exist for a long time. WestJet's loyalty program, Rewards, lets you earn on both flights and partners, though it's not the most generous redemption structure out there.
WestJet hub airports
- YYC Calgary — 102 WestJet routes from Canada
- YYZ Toronto — 52 WestJet routes from Canada
- YEG Edmonton — 38 WestJet routes from Canada
- YVR Vancouver — 36 WestJet routes from Canada
- YWG Winnipeg — 26 WestJet routes from Canada
Top destination countries on WestJet
- Canada — 391 WestJet routes
- USA — 74 WestJet routes
- Mexico — 52 WestJet routes
- United Kingdom — 8 WestJet routes
- Dominican Republic — 6 WestJet routes
- Jamaica — 5 WestJet routes
- Cuba — 4 WestJet routes
- Ireland — 4 WestJet routes
Tips for booking WestJet
Watch your fare class carefully — WestJet's basic economy (Econo) strips out a lot, including seat selection and changes. If you're flexible on dates, their EconoFlex tier is worth the small bump in price. Baggage fees can sneak up on you, so check what your ticket actually includes before you get to the airport. YYC is the strongest hub by far with 102 routes, so routing through Calgary often opens up more options than Toronto or Vancouver. Since WestJet isn't in a global alliance, earning miles on partner airlines isn't straightforward — plan accordingly if points matter to you.
Frequently asked questions about WestJet
Where does WestJet fly?
WestJet operates 584 routes primarily across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The airline serves a wide network of destinations ranging from major cities to smaller regional airports across North America and the Caribbean.
What is WestJet's main hub airport?
WestJet's primary hub is Calgary International Airport (YYC) in Alberta, Canada. This is the airline's main connecting point for flights across its network.
Is WestJet a low-cost carrier?
WestJet operates as a low-cost to mid-range carrier, offering competitive fares with a focus on point-to-point service across North America. The airline provides a good balance between affordability and service quality.
When is the best time to book a WestJet flight?
Booking 1–3 months in advance typically offers the best fares on WestJet flights. Prices tend to increase closer to departure, so early booking is recommended for popular routes and peak travel periods.
What are WestJet's baggage and check-in policies?
WestJet allows carry-on baggage with most fares, though checked baggage allowances vary by fare class and route. Passengers can check in online 24 hours before departure or at the airport, with online check-in recommended to save time.