Who Would You Rather Fly With? WestJet vs. Air Canada

 

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Throughout my posts in this blog, I’ve been talking about how great WestJet is about their treatment of both employees and customers. I wanted to take an opportunity to compare WestJet with another well know Canadian airline, Air Canada, to show some similarities and differences. Who knows, it may change your decision on which airline you fly with next time you take a trip or vacation.

Of course, WestJet has their ‘Car-antee’ which outlines WestJet’s promises to customers, but what does Air Canada do for similar policies? How does WestJet compare to Air Canada in other aspects of flying?

1. Flight Arrivals and Departures:

WestJet: Have both prompt arrival and departure flights.

Air Canada: Are notorious for late flights.

2. Prices of Flights:

WestJet: Is known for their cheaper flights.

Air Canada: Their flight prices due fluctuate, but generally WestJet is still cheaper.

3. Food & Drinks:

WestJet: Offers complimentary drinks and snacks on all flights, even within Canada. Offer free food on flights outside of Canada.

Air Canada: Offers complimentary drinks on all flights, but charges for food and snacks.

4. Customer Assistance:

WestJet: Are known for their superb customer service and assistance, and are always willing to help in anyway.

Air Canada: Are known to be hard to deal with when it comes to changing of flights, missed connections or any problems you are having.

5. Amenities such as T.V, In-Flight Movies, Outlets:

WestJet: Offer free live T.V, but charge for movies. They have few power outlets.

Air Canada: Do not offer live T.V, however movies are free. They also have plenty of power outlets.

6. Flight Frequency:

WestJet: Has frequent flights throughout Canada, parts of the U.S and some internationally.

Air Canada: Has even more frequent flights than WestJet throughout Canada, the U.S and internationally.

7. Flight Classes:

WestJet: Just offers Economy class.

Air Canada: Offers First, Executive and Economy.

8. Baggage Check:

WestJet: Do not charge for first bag checked on any of their flights. For a second checked bag there is a charge.

Air Canada: For flights outside of Canada they charge $25 for the first bag checked. For a second bag checked there is a charge as well.

After comparing the two airlines what I have found is that if I personally was to choose an airline it would be WestJet. They seem superior in the aspects that matter most to me as a traveller. However, Air Canada seems to offer a different kind of service which would seem to cater more to a business man, or someone taking a trip for work. I have also heard that Air Canada has been working on their customer service and have become a little friendlier, but have yet to promise similar guarantees that WestJet does.  I think it just all depends on preference.

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