Safety Above All: Why WestJet was named one of the safest airlines in the world

For the second year in a row, WestJet has been named among the top 10 safest low-cost airlines as rated by AirlineRatings.com. Drawing on factors such as the airline’s safety initiatives, fleet age and COVID-19 protocols, WestJet’s Safety Above All promise has been recognized as one of the best in the world.    

“It is an honour to receive recognition for WestJet’s unwavering commitment to safety,” said Diederik Pen, WestJet Chief Operating Officer. “Throughout the pandemic, WestJetters have continued to go above and beyond to ensure Safety Above All for everyone in WestJet’s world. It is through the dedication and care of our WestJetters that our safety efforts are continuously recognized across the globe.”

Want to learn more about what goes into making WestJet one of the safest airlines in the world? Here are just some of the ways we’re putting Safety Above All.

Enhanced COVID-19 protocols

Since the onset of the pandemic, we’ve implemented several health and safety measures. From our zero-tolerance mask policy and requiring all of our guests and employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to the implementation of over 20 enhanced health and safety measures, safety is our priority at every step of the travel journey. 

In 2021, we welcomed Dr. Tammy McKnight as our first-ever Chief Medical Officer. Under Dr. McKnight’s leadership, we continue to expand on our commitment to putting our guests Safety Above All.

The air up here – breathe easy

WestJet’s aircraft are equipped with an industry-leading air circulation system containing a HEPA filter, similar to what is used in hospitals. Not only do these filters introduce fresh air into the cabin every two to three minutes, but they also capture and filter 99.99% of all airborne particles. 

Supporting the entire well-being of our guests

Our safety promise extends beyond physical safety, it encompasses our guests’ entire well-being throughout their journey. We offer our guests several tools and products to help them plan for their next trip, including:

• Our Travel Ready Series and a new entry requirements tool to equip guests with all the information they need to prepare for their next trip.
• A new partnership with AZOVA to offer guests convenient molecular self-testing kits and access to COVID-19 testing clinics around the world.
• A variety of travel insurance options to provide guests with additional peace of mind when booking their next flight.
• Access to Calm on WestJet Connect, for our guests to unwind in the sky.

A proven record of care

At WestJet, our Safety Above All promise to our guests and our WestJetters is at the core of everything we do. For over twenty-five years, our culture has put safety at the forefront of every decision we make and we are proud to continue that legacy today. Our modern fleet of aircraft and industry-leading safety standards continue to ensure that no matter how the travel environment changes, our commitment to safety remains our top priority.

For more on WestJet’s commitment to safety, visit our Safety Above All page.