WestJet $12.5M Airline Bag Fees Class Action Settlement

If you traveled on a WestJet flight and paid a fee for your first checked bag, you may be eligible to claim a portion of the $12,500,000 from a class action settlement.

WestJet Airlines Ltd. has agreed to pay $12,500,000 to settle a class action lawsuit for allegedly charging baggage fees contrary to their tariff terms.

Who can file a claim?

To be eligible to file a claim, you must meet the following criteria:

• You traveled on a WestJet flight booked directly with WestJet.
• Your travel was during the class period, which is defined as:
• Canada domestic flights: Tickets issued on or after September 15, 2014, for travel between October 29, 2014, and July 29, 2017.
• USA and international flights: Tickets issued on or after November 3, 2015, for travel between January 6, 2016, and February 27, 2019.
• You paid a fee for your first checked bag.

The class members include individuals residing anywhere in the world who meet the above criteria.

How much is the payout per person?

Class members can claim WestJet Travel Bank credits. The settlement provides that each approved claim will not exceed $45 CAD for claims on or after July 6, 2017, and $18 CAD for claims before July 5, 2017. These amounts represent the maximum potential award, and the actual pro rata amount each member receives will depend on the number of valid claims submitted.

For example, if there are fewer claims, the pro rata amount could be closer to the maximum, but if there are many claims, the amount could be less.

What proof is needed to submit a claim?

• WestJet booking confirmation number or a copy of the booking confirmation.
• Proof of payment for the first checked baggage fee, such as a receipt or credit card statement.

How to claim a payout

Class members must submit a claim form by February 10, 2025. Claims can be filed online through the online claim form or by submitting a paper claim form.

Paper claims should be mailed to:

WestJet Settlement Administrator

c/o A.B. Data, Ltd.

P.O. Box 173103

Milwaukee, WI 53217

Claim instructions

1. Gather Required Documents: Collect your WestJet booking confirmation and proof of payment for the first checked baggage fee.
2. Choose Submission Method: Decide whether to submit your claim online or via mail.
3. Complete the Claim Form: Fill out the claim form accurately, ensuring all required fields are completed.
4. Submit the Claim: If online, upload your documents and submit the form. If by mail, ensure your claim is postmarked by the deadline.

Payout method

• WestJet Travel Bank credits

$12.5 Million settlement fund

The settlement fund of $12,500,000 will cover the distribution of WestJet Travel Bank credits to class members, class counsel fees, administration costs, and an honorarium for the plaintiff.

The class counsel fees are set at one-third of the settlement amount, which totals approximately $4,166,667. The remaining amount will be distributed pro rata to eligible claimants.

Important dates

• Deadline to File a Claim: February 10, 2025

When is the WestJet Baggage Fee Settlement payout date?

The payout date for the awards will occur after the claims have been processed and approved, following the February 10, 2025, deadline.

Why was there a class action settlement?

The class action lawsuit was initiated because WestJet allegedly charged fees for the first checked baggage contrary to the terms outlined in their tariff. The settlement was reached to avoid further litigation costs and to provide compensation to affected passengers.