WestJet Completes Sunwing Airlines Integration: New Rules on Baggage and Bookings

Two years after their initial announcement, WestJet Group has completed its integration of Sunwing Airlines.

“Completing two airline consolidations in just two years—the first with Swoop in 2024 and now Sunwing—was complex and required coordination across every aspect of our business, from operational, labour, and regulatory areas to experiential and cultural elements,” says Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer of the WestJet Group.

“Achieving this milestone is proof of the incredible way our unified team works together and is a clear win for WestJet and our guests; it’s also a story of transformation in Canadian aviation. A huge thanks to everyone who contributed!”

WestJet acquired Sunwing in May 2023 and says the official integration which is effective tomorrow (May 29) integrates Sunwing Airlines and will “deliver new and competitive travel options, and greater overall value for Canadians in sun and leisure market, while strengthening Canada’s travel industry at a critical time.”

Advisors need to know of a few crucial changes in the booking process and baggage structure.

WestJet’s PNR code will now be required at check-in – this will be available five days before travel in the “My Booking” section of Sunwing Vacations and WestJet Vacations. A check-in reminder email will be sent 24 hours before departure and 72 hours before, a “Get Ready to Travel” email will be sent with the PNR code needed, from WestJet.

Baggage allowances now fall under WestJet’s rules: one carryon is free and there is a charge for checked baggage. Those fees depend on when they are checked:

• $35 + tax if the baggage is booked at time of booking or shortly thereafter
• $45 if it is added 24 hours before departure
• $55 if it is checked at the WestJet counter at the airport

WestJet has now integrated all jet aircraft under a single Air Operator Certificate (AOC), including 16 former Swoop aircraft, another nine former Lynx Air aircraft which were secured after that airline went out of business, and now 18 more from Sunwing Airlines. WestJet’s unified narrowbody operation will begin to realize efficiencies once it transforms these aircraft with cabin reconfigurations to the WestJet standard interior being completed through 2025.

“The final Sunwing-operated flight this week is a time to reflect,” von Hoensbroech notes, recognizing that Sunwing has played an important and influential role in the Canadian leisure travel market.

“I know every Sunwing employee, past and present feels their contributions have mattered to advancing the experience of air travel. To all WestJetters and former Sunwing team members: thank you. This milestone is your achievement, and a proud moment for us all.”