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WestJet service updates - August 14, 2024
WestJet works diligently to safety return 16 aircraft to service in wake of Calgary hailstorm
With more than 10 per cent of its fleet continuing to undergo inspection and repairs due to the storm system that impacted the airline’s global hub on August 5, 2024, WestJet continues to issue proactive cancellations across August to account for reduced capacity
CALGARY, ALTA., – August 14, 2024 – Following the hailstorm that targeted Calgary on the evening of August 5, 2024, WestJet announced today it will continue issuing proactive cancellations for the foreseeable future, as the airline works diligently to safely return all 16 impacted aircraft to service. A comprehensive assessment of the damage determined that sourcing specialized equipment and materials and completing repairs and inspections will take several weeks.
“We share in Canadians’ frustration for the unpredictable nature of this summer travel season and are incredibly disappointed that the compounding impacts of last week’s hailstorm continues to disrupt the travel plans of our valued guests,” said Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines and Chief Operating Officer, WestJet Group. “Our dedicated Tech Ops teams have travelled from across our network to Calgary and Toronto where they are working around the clock to return our fleet to its full capacity. We thank everyone for their patience and support and are committed to doing everything in our power to minimize the impact on our guests and our people.”
Through the proactive issuance of cancellations across the month of August, WestJet will aim to minimize disruption, secure reaccommodation options for those impacted wherever possible, while providing guests with timely communication and options to appropriately manage their own travel in advance. WestJet is currently cancelling an average of 50 flights per day, however anticipates fewer cancellations will be required as aircraft are returned to service in a phased approach.
Gandeephan Ganeshalingam, WestJet, Vice-President Tech Ops and Diederik Pen, President, WestJet Airlines and Group Chief Operating Officer provide a comprehensive update on fleet repair.
To minimize guest impact wherever possible, WestJet is actively pursuing every avenue including adding additional flights operated by WestJet Encore and partner, Canadian North, to help reduce cancellations. Additionally, WestJet has engaged Boeing and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), the certified union representing WestJet Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, to secure additional resourcing and expedite aircraft repairs.
Contact Centre wait times and self-serve options
WestJet is currently experiencing very high volumes for phone, email and social media support channels and guest support teams are working diligently to assist as quickly as possible. Robust improvements have been made across digital touchpoints of the travel journey, enabling more self-serve options for guests.
For guests impacted by flight delays, cancellations and changes, please proceed to your WestJet email notification and leverage the unique live chat and self-serve links.
For non-imminent requests that cannot be self-served, please book a call-back appointment at WestJet.com/contact.
Upcoming Flight has been changed or cancelled
Check your inbox for an email from WestJet with the subject line “Essential or Crucial details for your upcoming flight” for self-serve or live chat options.
If you booked with a travel agent or online booking agency, or this booking was made through the WestJet Groups department, please contact them directly.
Upcoming WestJet Vacation has been changed or cancelled
Check your inbox for an email from WestJet with the subject line “Essential or Crucial details for your upcoming flight” for self-serve or live chat options.
Upcoming Flight has not been changed or cancelled
In response to the impact of the storm, a travel advisory has been posted on WestJet.com and flexible change/cancel guidelines have been announced for all WestJet flight only bookings for travel between August 5 and August 8, 2024.