WestJet Airlines has reached a landmark settlement of $12.5 million to resolve a class action lawsuit concerning improper baggage fees. The Supreme Court of British Columbia approved the settlement, which compensates travelers who were unfairly charged for their first checked bags in violation of WestJet’s tariff policies. This move is seen as a win for consumer rights and corporate transparency.
The lawsuit arose from consumer complaints regarding baggage fees charged between 2014 and 2019. Many travelers alleged that the fees were inconsistent with the airline’s advertised policies. These charges prompted the class action, which aimed to ensure that travelers received justice for the financial burden they endured.
Though WestJet denies any wrongdoing, the airline agreed to the settlement to resolve the claims. Eligible travelers now have the chance to claim their share of the settlement and receive compensation for the improper fees.
WestJet Airlines Class Action Settlement
The settlement represents an important moment in consumer advocacy, holding airlines accountable for adhering to their published tariff policies. Evolink Law Group first announced the proposed settlement in June 2024, which was subsequently approved in October 2024.
Key highlights include:
- Total Compensation Fund: $12.5 million.
- Scope of Settlement: To address claims from travelers charged for their first checked bag against the stated tariff policies.
- Distribution Plan: Settlement funds will be allocated after deducting legal and administrative expenses.
This settlement is a reminder that consumer grievances can lead to meaningful outcomes when pursued through legal avenues.
Who Qualifies for Compensation?
Not all travelers are eligible to claim a share of the settlement. The eligibility criteria are specific and based on the period and type of flights taken.
- Canadian Domestic Flights: Travelers who paid fees for their first checked bag between October 29, 2014, and July 29, 2017 are eligible.
- International Flights: Travelers charged baggage fees for international flights between January 6, 2016, and February 27, 2019 qualify for compensation.
- Tariff Policy Coverage: Passengers who booked flights under tariff policies promising free first-checked bags but were charged are also included.
This well-defined criteria ensure that only genuinely affected travelers benefit from the settlement. Those unsure of their eligibility can review their travel history or consult the settlement administrator.
What You Can Expect
The settlement fund will be distributed among eligible claimants after certain deductions. While the total amount is $12.5 million, various costs will be subtracted before funds are allocated to class members.
| Expense Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Class Counsel Fees | One-third of the settlement fund. |
| Plaintiff Honorarium | $1,500. |
| Administrative & Disbursement Costs | Reasonable costs approved by the court. |
The remaining funds will be divided among claimants on a pro-rata basis, meaning the final amount depends on the total number of claims submitted.
- Claimants may receive between $10 and $20 per claim, assuming a claim rate of 5%.
- Those filing claims for flights taken after July 6, 2017, could receive up to $45 per approved claim.
- Claims for flights taken before July 5, 2017, may be limited to $18 per claim.
Limitations and Additional Conditions
While the settlement is a positive outcome, it comes with certain conditions and limitations that claimants should be aware of:
- Form of Compensation – Claimants will receive their compensation as WestJet Travel Bank credits. These credits:
- Are valid for 24 months.
- Can be used to book WestJet flights.
- Have no blackout periods.
- Are non-transferable but can be used to purchase tickets for others.
- Maximum Claims – Travelers are limited to claims for up to three checked bags during the settlement period. This ensures equitable distribution of funds.
- Expiry of Credits – All Travel Bank credits must be redeemed within the 24-month validity period. Unused credits will expire after this time and cannot be extended.
Filing Your Claim: Step-by-Step Guide
Travelers eligible for compensation can submit claims through multiple methods. The claims process began on November 11, 2024, and will remain open until February 10, 2025. Here’s how you can file your claim:
- If you received an email from the Claims Administrator, use the provided Unique ID and PIN to submit your pre-populated claim form.
- Complete an electronic claim form on the official settlement website. Ensure you include proof of eligibility, such as booking details or receipts.
- Download a paper claim form from the settlement website, fill it out, and mail it to: WestJet Settlement Administrator, c/o A.B. Data, Ltd., P.O. Box 173103, Milwaukee, WI 53217.
Important Filing Rules
- Each claim should include documentation proving eligibility.
- Claimants may submit up to three claims for separate checked bags.
Important Deadlines and Contacts
To ensure your claim is processed, it’s crucial to adhere to the timeline and contact the right administrators for assistance.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Claims Period Start Date | November 11, 2024 |
| Claims Period End Date | February 10, 2025 |
| Claims Administrator | A.B. Data, Ltd. |
| Mailing Address | P.O. Box 173103, Milwaukee, WI 53217 |
For additional information, review the official settlement agreement or contact the claims administrator directly.
Why This Settlement Matters
The WestJet baggage fee settlement highlights the importance of consumer advocacy and corporate responsibility. By pursuing this class action lawsuit, affected travelers have ensured greater transparency and accountability in the airline industry.
This case serves as a reminder for companies to uphold their advertised policies and for consumers to assert their rights when they encounter unfair practices. Travelers impacted by the baggage fees are encouraged to file their claims promptly and secure their rightful compensation.
The WestJet baggage fee settlement offers a unique opportunity for eligible travelers to recover funds they were unfairly charged. With a straightforward claims process and generous compensation terms, this settlement represents a significant win for consumers. Ensure you file your claim by February 10, 2025, to receive your share of the $12.5 million settlement.