WestJet Eliminating Free Checked Bags, Charging for Premium Seats

WestJet will charge a $25 baggage fee on all new economy bookings as of Jan. 6, 2016. On flights longer than 300 miles, the low-cost airline also will raise fees for reserved seats and those on exit rows by an additional $10 and $20, respectively.

The baggage fee does not apply to higher-priced Flex or Plus fares or tickets purchased through WestJet Vacations.

WestJet reported profits of $101.8 million in its last quarter, and expects the new fees to generate between $15 million and $25 million in additional annual revenue.

— Daniel McCarthy

Pic: Brian