An update on WestJet’s progress to ensure a gender inclusive experience for all

Effective June 28, 2022, our gender selection has been expanded to include unspecified (x) for all air reservations made through WestJet.com or through the WestJet app

At WestJet, it is our commitment to ensure our guests have an equitable travel experience and we owe a further explanation and apology regarding our progress on adding non-binary options to our booking and check-in systems. 

In 2019, we welcomed the Government of Canada’s announcement regarding the implementation of gender X in the sex field of Canadian passports and made a commitment to make the necessary changes to our technology and systems to support the travel journey of our non-binary guests.

Originally, we anticipated the necessary technological changes required through our systems would take roughly one year to implement; however, due to several setbacks resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, we are disappointed that we have not been able to deliver upon our commitment in the timeframe we expected, and that the implementation was delayed.

As we work towards our goal of creating an inclusive environment for everyone in WestJet’s world, effective June 28, 2022, our gender selection has been expanded to include unspecified (x) for all air reservations made through WestJet.com or through the WestJet app. For guests making a WestJet Vacations reservation, gender X can be selected when making a reservation directly through our contact centre. 

Guests who have booked through a third-party such as a Travel Agent, Corporate Travel arrangement or another airline partner are asked to contact their provider directly. 

Guests who have existing reservations are also now able to update their gender during their check-in process as well as on their WestJet Rewards account.

We appreciate the patience of our guests as we worked to make the necessary changes to our systems and apologize for the disappointment and frustration this has caused.