WestJet vs. Air Canada: The Ultimate Showdown
WestJet and Air Canada are the two largest airlines in Canada and. They are both among the best airlines in Canada, but which airline truly comes out on top? In this article, we’ll compare the company profiles, flight destinations, in-flight experiences, loyalty programs, and customer service of both airlines to determine the ultimate champion. Get ready for the ultimate showdown: WestJet vs. Air Canada.
WestJet vs. Air Canada: Company Profiles
WestJet: A Brief History
WestJet, founded in 1996, is a Canadian airline that has built a reputation for low prices and excellent customer service. The airline started with just three aircraft, but now has a fleet of over 111 planes and offers flights to over 110 destinations across Canada, the US, Mexico, Europe, and the Caribbean. The company is still growing, having confirmed the upcoming integration of Sunwing Airlines in May 2023. WestJet is well-known for its friendly and helpful crew members, which they call “WestJetters.” They’ve also been awarded the title of Canada’s Most Trusted Airline by the Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria in 2016, 2017, 2018.
WestJet’s success can be attributed to its unique corporate culture. The airline’s core values include a commitment to safety, caring for its guests, and treating its employees like family. WestJetters are encouraged to have fun and be themselves while at work, which creates a positive and welcoming environment for both employees and passengers.
In addition to its passenger services, WestJet also operates a cargo division that provides shipping services across Canada and internationally. The airline is committed to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including investing in fuel-efficient aircraft and implementing recycling programs.
Air Canada: A Brief History
Air Canada was incorporated as Trans Canada Air Lines in 1937 and has grown into Canada’s largest airline, boasting a fleet of over 400 aircraft that flies to over 220 destinations on six continents. The airline prides itself on its global reach and offers passengers a full-service experience that includes in-flight meals, drinks, and entertainment. Air Canada has a reputation for being reliable and safe, having been named the best airline in North America by Skytrax, a UK-based international air transport rating organization, eight out of the past ten years.
The airline has played a significant role in shaping the Canadian aviation industry and has been a pioneer in several areas, including the development of in-flight entertainment and the introduction of the first computerized reservation system in Canada.
Despite its size and global reach, Air Canada remains committed to its Canadian roots. The airline is a major employer in Canada, with over 30,000 employees across the country. Air Canada is also a strong supporter of Canadian culture and the arts, sponsoring several events and organizations across the country.
As part of its commitment to sustainability, Air Canada has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including investing in fuel-efficient aircraft and implementing recycling programs. The airline has also partnered with several organizations to develop sustainable aviation biofuels.
In conclusion, both WestJet and Air Canada have made significant contributions to the Canadian aviation industry and continue to be leaders in the field. Their commitment to safety, customer service, and sustainability has earned them the trust and loyalty of passengers around the world.
Comparing Flight Destinations
When it comes to choosing a flight destination, there are a lot of factors to consider. Both of these airlines offer a variety of domestic and international flights–let’s take a closer look at what each airline has to offer.
Domestic Destinations
Travelling within Canada? Both WestJet and Air Canada have got you covered. With non-stop flights to Western, Eastern, Atlantic, major cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal, you’ll be able to get where you need to go. However, there are some differences between the two airlines.
WestJet generally offers up to 450 daily flights across the country and beyond. With their fleet of Boeing 737s, they can quickly and efficiently transport passengers anywhere in Western, Eastern, Atlantic, or Northern Canada. This includes over 300 flights weekly to Alberta and BC, and the Canadian Rocky Mountains. They also have a reputation for being budget-friendly, with lower ticket prices than Air Canada.
On the other hand, Air Canada has a wider array of planes, including smaller planes that allow them to offer flights to smaller regional airports and remote locations. Top destinations include destinations in Calgary, Vancouver, and Quebec.? Additionally, Air Canada has a rewards program, called Aeroplan, allowing frequent flyers to earn points and redeem them for free flights or upgrades.
International Destinations
If you’re looking to travel abroad, both airlines offer an extensive number of international destinations. Air Canada leads the way in terms of global reach, with flights to Europe, Asia, South America, and more. Their Star Alliance network also allows passengers to connect to other airlines to reach even more destinations.
However, WestJet has been rapidly expanding its reach and now offers flights to Europe and Asia, placing them in direct competition with Air Canada. They’ve also partnered with other airlines to offer more options for travellers. For example, their partnership with Delta Airlines allows passengers to connect to hundreds more destinations globally.
Ultimately, the choice between WestJet and Air Canada depends on your specific travel needs. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for domestic travel, WestJet might be your best bet. If you’re travelling to a more remote location or looking to earn rewards points, Air Canada could be the way to go. However, if you’re travelling internationally, both airlines offer a variety of options to choose from.
When comparing the two, WestJet has a reputation for being better when it comes to domestic destinations and Air Canada for international ones, but a comparison of prices on both sites shows the two are fairly comparable. For example,? prices from the airlines’ websites at the time of writing this article list a flight from Toronto to Vancouver costs $154 CAD on Air Canada and $152 on WestJet. From Toronto to Los Angeles, Air Canada is actually the cheaper option at $318 CAD for a one-way ticket while WestJet charges around $700. For International flights, Air Canada charges $2,182 for a round trip to Shanghai, a place WestJest does not fly. In short, for flights within Canada, it’s a toss-up. It is important to note that ticket prices and deals change all the time. Be sure to check each of the company’s websites for deals and flights before booking anywhere outside of Canada.??
In-Flight Experience
Travelling by air is an experience like no other, and Air Canada and WestJet both offer a range of services and amenities to make your flight as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, from seating and comfort to in-flight entertainment and food options.
Seating and Comfort
When it comes to seating and comfort, Air Canada and WestJet both have a lot to offer. Air Canada’s premium economy and business class seats offer more spacious seating arrangements, making it easier to stretch out and relax during your flight. Meanwhile, WestJet’s premium economy seats are also comfortable and adjustable, with a footrest and extra legroom to help you feel more at ease.
WestJet is also excited to be welcoming its first Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which offers passengers even more comfort and convenience. With larger windows and quieter engines, this state-of-the-art aircraft is sure to make your flight a truly memorable experience.
In-Flight Entertainment
Both Air Canada and WestJet offer an impressive selection of in-flight entertainment. For Air Canada, this includes seat-back screens on (Premium Economy Class and Economy Class planes) with a variety of movies, TV shows and live television, games, music, and pay-per-use Internet access. However, Air Canada takes it a step further by offering passengers the choice of connecting to in-flight Wi-Fi services on select North American and International Canada-operated flights. Passengers can also stream content directly to their own devices via web browser, if they prefer.?
WestJet also offers a variety of onboard entertainment options, including a wide array of movies, streaming television, and pay-per-use Internet browsing. Their Dreamliner 787 offers a suite of similar services using touchscreen back of seat monitors, with music, movies, television, games, and pay-per-use Internet browsing available.??
Both companies seem equally equipped when it comes to entertainment options, meaning that you can stay connected and entertained throughout your flight, no matter where you are in the world or which airline you choose.
Food and Beverage Options
When it comes to food and beverage options, both Air Canada and WestJet have a lot to offer. Air Canada offers complimentary meals on international flights, including wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages. Flights within North America and the Caribbean do not include food, but passengers can purchase hot and cold food items from the Air Canada Bistro on flights over two hours long. Bar service offered on flights under two hours, include non-alcoholic beverages and a bar snack. Business and first-class passengers receive complimentary food and drink, making it easy to relax and enjoy your flight.
Meanwhile, WestJet has an exciting menu that includes hot meals and snacks. Economy class passengers can purchase snacks and drinks on all flights, with hot meals available on flights over 4.5 hours long. Premium economy travellers receive priority meal service and deluxe snacks. Business travellers receive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, a selection of snacks, and a hot meal. This means that no matter what your budget or taste preferences, you’re sure to find something delicious to eat or drink during your flight.
Both airlines seem about equal when it comes to food service. Passengers enjoy complimentary food on longer flights and in premium seats and are able to purchase food on shorter flights with both.?
This article is the shortened version of an article originally published on Hardbacon.ca by Arthur Dubois under the title "WestJet vs. Air Canada: The Ultimate Showdown".