WestJet's $12.5M class action settlement was just approved — Here's how you can claim money
If you flew WestJet and paid for a checked bag, you could be eligible!
You could be eligible for part of a $12.5M class action settlement from WestJet.
Did you pay for a checked bag on a WestJet flight in the last 10 years? If so, you might soon be eligible to get some money back!
A class action lawsuit against WestJet reached a settlement back in June for a whopping $12.5 million, and on Friday, a B.C. court officially approved the settlement.
This class action settlement is tied to WestJet's baggage fees, specifically for the first checked bag on certain flights. It's been alleged that WestJet charged fees that didn't align with its published tariff between 2014 and 2019.
While WestJet hasn't admitted any wrongdoing, the settlement means some Canadians could get compensation in the form of WestJet Travel Bank credits.
Here's everything you need to know about who's eligible, how much you could receive and how to claim your credit.
Who is eligible to claim?
You might be eligible if you paid a fee for your first checked bag on a WestJet flight that you booked directly with the airline during these times:
- For domestic flights in Canada: between October 29, 2014, and July 29, 2017.
- For international flights: between January 6, 2016, and February 27, 2019.
If your ticket was under a tariff that said your first checked bag should have been free, you're part of the class action.
How much could you get?
While the exact amount you'll receive depends on how many people file claims, it's estimated that each eligible customer will get between $10 and $20.
The settlement caps the payout at $18 for flights before July 6, 2017, and $45 for flights on or after July 6, 2017.
If you paid the checked baggage fee multiple times, you can submit a claim for up to three bags.
How can you claim your credits?
To get your share of the settlement, you’ll need to file a claim, which will be paid out as WestJet Travel Bank credits. These credits can be used to book flights with no blackout dates and will be valid for two years.
The claim process isn't open just yet, but WestJet will send out a claim form soon. Keep an eye on your email or check back for updates. If you don't want to be part of the settlement, you can opt out by following the instructions in the official notice.
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