# WestJet Airlines Same Day Flight Change Policy: A Complete Guide
Travel plans often need last-minute adjustments, whether due to business schedule changes, personal emergencies, or simple changes in preference. As one of Canada’s major airlines, **WestJet Airlines** offers a Same Day Flight Change policy designed to provide flexibility and ease for travelers who require changes to their itinerary shortly before departure.
In this detailed guide, we explore everything you need to know about WestJet’s Same Day Flight Change policy—its terms, eligibility, change process, fees, exceptions, and practical tips. Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, understanding this policy can help you make informed and cost-effective decisions when your schedule shifts.
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## Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Overview of WestJet Airlines
3. What is Same Day Flight Change?
4. Importance of Same Day Flight Change
5. WestJet’s Approach to Same Day Flight Change
6. Eligibility Criteria
7. Conditions and Restrictions
8. Same Day Confirmed Change vs. Standby Travel
9. Types of Tickets Eligible
10. Applicable Fare Classes
11. Cost of Same Day Changes
12. Exceptions to the Rule
13. How to Make a Same Day Change (Step-by-Step)
14. Online and Mobile App Options
15. Airport Kiosk or Gate Change
16. For Domestic vs. International Flights
17. Implications for Group Bookings
18. Changes After Missed Flights
19. Flex Fares and EconoFlex Tickets
20. WestJet Rewards Members and Benefits
21. Partner Airlines and Code Shares
22. WestJet Link and Encore Flights
23. Changing Connecting Flights
24. Policy During Disruptions (e.g., Weather)
25. Travel Agent and Third-Party Bookings
26. COVID-19 Adjustments and Flexible Travel
27. Customer Service and Support
28. Tips for Smooth Changes
29. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
30. Conclusion
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## 1. Introduction
Unexpected changes are a part of travel. WestJet recognizes that passengers sometimes need to modify their plans shortly before takeoff. For such cases, their Same Day Flight Change policy offers a convenient solution to switch flights on the same day of departure, depending on seat availability and fare eligibility.
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## 2. Overview of WestJet Airlines
Founded in 1996, **WestJet Airlines** is the second-largest airline in Canada, known for its customer-friendly service, competitive fares, and expansive domestic and international route network. With headquarters in Calgary, Alberta, WestJet operates scheduled and charter air service to over 100 destinations in North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and Europe.
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## 3. What is Same Day Flight Change?
A Same Day Flight Change refers to the option of switching to another flight on the same day as your originally scheduled departure. This change can be to an earlier or later flight, depending on the passenger’s preference and flight availability.
Unlike full rebooking, same-day changes are often cheaper and more efficient, especially when plans alter within a 24-hour window.
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## 4. Importance of Same Day Flight Change
This policy is especially beneficial for:
* **Business travelers** wrapping up meetings early
* **Families with young children** needing flexibility
* **Weather-related travel adjustments**
* **Connecting passengers** needing to sync timing
* **Frequent flyers** optimizing travel efficiency
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## 5. WestJet’s Approach to Same Day Flight Change
WestJet offers two primary options under this policy:
1. **Same Day Confirmed Change** – A confirmed seat on another flight on the same day.
2. **Standby Travel** – Waitlisting on a preferred flight in the hopes of securing a seat closer to departure time.
WestJet’s policy depends on fare class, availability, and the traveler’s status within the **WestJet Rewards** program.
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## 6. Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Same Day Flight Change with WestJet:
* The flight must be **operated by WestJet or WestJet Encore**
* The new flight must **depart on the same calendar day** as the original
* The origin and destination airports must remain the **same**
* There must be **available seats** in the same fare class or an eligible class
* The ticket must be **valid and confirmed**
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## 7. Conditions and Restrictions
* **Basic fares are NOT eligible** for same-day changes
* Only applies to **flights within North America**
* Not available for **codeshare flights operated by partner airlines**
* The policy does not support **route changes**
* **Flight segments** part of multi-city bookings may not qualify
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## 8. Same Day Confirmed Change vs. Standby Travel
| Feature | Confirmed Change | Standby Travel |
| ----------------------- | --------------------------------- | ---------------------------------- |
| Seat Guarantee | Yes | No (subject to availability) |
| Fees | Applicable (varies by fare class) | Often free for Flex/Business fares |
| Advance Booking Allowed | Yes, before departure | At the airport, near departure |
| Eligibility | EconoFlex, Premium, Business | EconoFlex and higher |
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## 9. Types of Tickets Eligible
* **EconoFlex**: Eligible for same-day changes with a fee
* **Premium & Business**: Often no fee for same-day changes
* **Basic Economy**: Not eligible
* **Award Flights**: Eligible only if booked directly through WestJet Rewards and if fare rules allow
* **Group Bookings**: Special handling required
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## 10. Applicable Fare Classes
| Fare Class | Same Day Change Eligibility | Notes |
| ---------- | --------------------------- | ------------------------------ |
| Basic | ❌ Not eligible | Must cancel and rebook instead |
| Econo | ❌ Limited or no changes | Restrictions apply |
| EconoFlex | ✅ Eligible with fee | Moderate flexibility |
| Premium | ✅ Often free | Enhanced flexibility |
| Business | ✅ Often free | Priority services included |
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## 11. Cost of Same Day Changes
* **EconoFlex**: Change fee typically ranges from **\$50–\$100 CAD**
* **Premium and Business**: Often free
* **WestJet Rewards Gold/Platinum**: May receive waived fees
* **Standby Travel**: Free for eligible fares (must check at airport)
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## 12. Exceptions to the Rule
* Changes to **international flights** (e.g., to Europe) are not covered
* Travelers cannot change from a **connecting flight** to a nonstop flight
* Same day change is not allowed for **oversized baggage flights**
* May not be available for flights booked via third parties or agencies
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## 13. How to Make a Same Day Change (Step-by-Step)
### Step 1: Log In
Visit [westjet.com](https://www.westjet.com) or open the mobile app and log into “Manage Trips.”
### Step 2: Select Your Itinerary
Choose the booking you want to change and click on “Change Flight.”
### Step 3: Search for Alternate Flights
Select the new time (same day only) and ensure the route remains the same.
### Step 4: Confirm and Pay
If a fee applies, make the payment. You’ll receive a confirmation via email or in the app.
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## 14. Online and Mobile App Options
* Changes can be made directly on **WestJet’s website**
* The **WestJet app** offers quick changes and digital boarding passes
* Notification for available same-day options may appear on the app
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## 15. Airport Kiosk or Gate Change
* Use WestJet kiosks to view flight options and make changes
* Speak to an agent at the **airport counter or boarding gate**
* Confirmed changes are subject to availability and fees
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## 16. For Domestic vs. International Flights
| Flight Type | Same Day Change Available? | Notes |
| ---------------- | -------------------------- | ------------------------------- |
| Domestic Canada | ✅ Yes | Subject to fare type |
| Transborder (US) | ✅ Yes | Same-day policy applies |
| International | ❌ No | Must rebook as a regular change |
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## 17. Implications for Group Bookings
Group reservations made via WestJet’s **Group Desk** require a representative to process any same-day changes. Each passenger's eligibility may vary depending on fare class and group contract terms.
---
## 18. Changes After Missed Flights
WestJet may rebook passengers on the **next available flight** if they arrive at the airport within **2 hours** of their missed flight. This does not qualify as a same-day change but is handled as part of customer service protocols.
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## 19. Flex Fares and EconoFlex Tickets
* **Flex fares** are ideal for passengers expecting changes
* Offer reduced or no change fees
* Priority boarding and standby access often included
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## 20. WestJet Rewards Members and Benefits
| Tier | Same Day Change Fee Waiver | Notes |
| -------- | -------------------------- | ---------------------------------- |
| Teal | ❌ Not eligible | Standard fees apply |
| Silver | ❌ No waiver | Standard policy |
| Gold | ✅ Partial waiver | Some flexibility depending on fare |
| Platinum | ✅ Full waiver | Best for frequent flyers |
---
## 21. Partner Airlines and Code Shares
* Flights operated by **Delta Air Lines**, **Air France**, or other partners are **not eligible**
* You must be flying on a **WestJet-operated flight** for same-day changes
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## 22. WestJet Link and Encore Flights
* Eligible for same-day changes if within the **same operating carrier**
* May require gate agent assistance at regional airports
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## 23. Changing Connecting Flights
* Same-day change applies only if **both segments** are eligible and have availability
* Must keep the **original routing and stopovers**
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## 24. Policy During Disruptions (e.g., Weather)
In the case of **weather delays or operational disruptions**, WestJet may waive same-day change fees and accommodate passengers at no additional charge. Notification is sent via email or app.
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## 25. Travel Agent and Third-Party Bookings
If you booked via Expedia, Booking.com, or a travel agent:
* Contact the third party to initiate changes
* WestJet may limit your ability to change online
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## 26. COVID-19 Adjustments and Flexible Travel
During the pandemic, WestJet:
* Offered **no-fee changes** for most fares
* Waived change fees for travel credits
* Allowed more flexible cancellations
As of 2025, most of these **temporary policies have ended**.
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## 27. Customer Service and Support
For assistance:
* Call **WestJet Guest Support**: 1-888-WESTJET (1-888-937-8538)
* Visit airport help desks
* Use live chat on the website
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## 28. Tips for Smooth Changes
* Travel on **EconoFlex or higher fares**
* Monitor **flight availability early in the day**
* Arrive early for **standby travel**
* Use the **WestJet app** for live updates
* Join **WestJet Rewards** for better change privileges
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## 29. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
**Q1: Can I change my flight to a later time on the same day?**
Yes, if eligible and seats are available.
**Q2: Can I switch to an earlier flight?**
Yes, under the Same Day Change policy.
**Q3: Will I pay extra for seat selection again?**
Yes, if your new flight is in a different fare class or seat zone.
**Q4: Can I change both legs of a roundtrip flight?**
Only the **departure leg** can be changed the same day.
**Q5: What if I’m a no-show?**
The Same Day Change option is no longer valid once the original flight has departed.
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## 30. Conclusion
WestJet’s Same Day Flight Change policy reflects the airline's commitment to providing travelers with **flexibility, convenience, and affordability**. Whether you're a seasoned flyer or a casual traveler, understanding the policy ensures that you’re prepared for the unexpected. From flexible fares to elite status perks, WestJet gives you tools to manage last-minute changes smoothly.
Be sure to review your fare type, check availability early, and use WestJet's digital tools to make seamless same-day changes when needed. In the end, it's all about **traveling smart and stress-free**.
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