WestJet Airlines reached a settlement in the amount of $12.5 million related to baggage fees charged for the first checked bags. The settlement, approved by the Supreme Court of British Columbia, responds to claims from travelers who were allegedly charged fares contrary to WestJet’s fare policies. The approval of this settlement not only provides monetary relief to affected customers, but also serves as a precedent for transparency in the airline industry regarding the disclosure of baggage fees.
This class action, It, arose as consumer complaints began to emerge about unexpected baggage fees charged between 2014 and 2019. Many customers felt these charges were applied improperly and contradicted WestJet’s advertised fare policies. As a result, the class action sought to rectify the financial burden faced by those affected, emphasizing the importance of corporate responsibility and compliance with announced policies.
What does WestJet offer to resolve this class action settlement?
In June 2024, Evolink Law Group announced a proposed settlement for a class action against WestJet, and in October 2024, the British Columbia Supreme Court gave final approval for the $12.5 million settlement.
Although WestJet has not admitted any liability, it agreed to pay the settlement to resolve claims made by travelers who paid baggage fees contrary to a provision of WestJet’s fare policy. This Settlement seeks to compensate affected travelers who were improperly charged a fee for their first checked bag.
Who is a candidate to file a claim?
The settlement includes the specific group of passengers who booked flights directly with WestJet during the period, including domestic and international flights in Canada. Eligibility details are as follows:
- Canadian domestic flights: Those who paid a fee for their first checked bag on flights taken between October 29, 2014, and July 29, 2017, are eligible.
- International flights: People who made reservations for international flights and paid for their first checked bag between January 6, 2016, and February 27, 2019.
- Additionally, anyone who booked a flight during this period under a policy stating that the first checked bag would be free is also eligible to file their claim.
The total settlement of $12.5 million will be used to compensate eligible class members after deducting various costs, including attorneys’ fees, administration fees, disbursements, and a plaintiff’s fee. These funds will ensure that affected individuals receive compensation that meets the claims presented in the case.
The claims process officially began on November 11, 2024, and will be open until February 10, 2025. Eligible travelers can choose from three methods to make their claims, ensuring that each has a fair opportunity to receive compensation. It is important that those affected submit their claims within the established deadline to ensure their eligibility.
If you received an email notification from the Claims Administrator, you can use the unique ID and PIN they provided to you to submit a pre-completed claim form. You may also submit an electronic claim form, which is available at the official website of the settlement. Be sure to attach proof of class membership when submitting the form.
If you prefer to submit the claim form on paper, you can download it from the settlement website. Once completed, mail it to: WestJet Settlement Administrator, c/o AB Data, Ltd., PO Box 173103, Milwaukee, WI 53217 It is important to keep in mind that each member of the group can make a claim for a maximum of three checked bags. This ensures timely distribution of funds
