Can I Get a Full Refund If I Cancel My WestJet Flight
When you book a flight with any airline, including WestJet, there is always a possibility that your travel plans might change. Whether it is due to an emergency, change of schedule, or simply a change of mind, canceling a flight is something that many travelers experience. One of the most important questions that comes up is this – can I get a full refund if I cancel my WestJet flight?
The answer is not the same for everyone. It depends on a range of factors, such as the type of ticket you purchased, when you cancel, and the specific rules set by WestJet. This guide covers everything you need to know about canceling your WestJet flight and getting your money back.
Understanding WestJet Fare Types
WestJet offers different types of fares, and each one has different rules when it comes to cancellations and refunds. The main fare types are:
- Basic fare
- Econo fare
- Econo Flex fare
- Premium fare
- Premium Flex fare
- Business fare
- Business Flex fare
Let us take a look at each in more detail and understand how they affect your ability to cancel and get a full refund.
Basic Fare
This is the most restricted fare that WestJet offers. If you purchased a basic fare, it is non-refundable and non-changeable. That means if you cancel, you will not receive a refund or credit. The only exception is within 24 hours of booking, which we will explain shortly.
Econo and Econo Flex Fares
These fares are a bit more flexible than the basic fare. If you purchased an Econo fare and want to cancel, you may receive a partial refund in the form of a travel credit. However, cancellation fees often apply, which means you will not get the full value back.
Econo Flex fares are more forgiving. These tickets allow you to cancel and receive the full value of your ticket as a travel credit, minus any applicable fees. However, this still does not mean a full refund to your original form of payment.
Premium and Premium Flex Fares
Premium fares offer added comfort and flexibility. If you cancel a Premium fare, you might be able to get a refund in the form of a travel credit, depending on the timing of your cancellation and whether your ticket was purchased under a refundable category.
Premium Flex fares are fully refundable. If you cancel a Premium Flex ticket, you can receive your money back to your original form of payment. No cancellation fees apply.
Business and Business Flex Fares
These fares are the most expensive but offer the most flexibility. Business Flex tickets are fully refundable. You can cancel any time before departure and receive a full refund to your original payment method. Business fares that are not marked Flex may include cancellation fees or offer credit instead of a cash refund.
The 24-Hour Cancellation Window
WestJet allows full refunds within 24 hours of booking for all fare types. This rule is helpful if you booked a flight and quickly realize you need to change or cancel it. The flight must be at least seven days away from the time of booking for this rule to apply.
To get a full refund under this rule, cancel your booking through WestJet’s official website or by calling customer service. If the cancellation is made after 24 hours, standard fare rules apply.
Cancelling Due to Medical or Family Emergency
In some cases, WestJet may offer flexibility if you have a serious reason for canceling, such as a medical emergency or death in the family. You will be required to provide documentation, such as a medical note or a death certificate.
These cases are considered on a case-by-case basis, and WestJet may provide a full refund or travel credit, even if your fare would normally not qualify for one. It is important to call their customer support as soon as possible in such situations.
Refunds When WestJet Cancels Your Flight
If WestJet cancels your flight for any reason — such as weather issues, technical problems, or scheduling changes — you are usually entitled to a full refund. This refund can be made to your original payment method or offered as a travel credit, depending on your preference.
You do not have to accept a travel voucher if your flight was canceled by the airline. You can request a full refund. It is important to understand the difference between canceling your own flight versus having the airline cancel it.
Using WestJet Travel Bank
If you cancel a flight and receive a credit instead of a refund, it will likely be deposited into your WestJet Travel Bank. This is a digital wallet where credits are stored and can be used for future WestJet flights.
Credits in your Travel Bank usually have an expiry date. Most credits are valid for 12 to 24 months from the date of issue. Make sure to check the expiration so you do not lose the value.
How to Cancel a WestJet Flight
To cancel your WestJet flight, go to the airline’s website and log into your account. Use the Manage Trips section to find your reservation. You can cancel online if your booking allows it.
If you have trouble or your ticket was booked through a travel agent or third-party website, you may need to contact them directly. Some third parties have different refund and cancellation policies.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Refund
If you are eligible for a refund and cancel your flight, it may take several business days for the refund to appear on your credit card or bank account. This depends on your bank and the method of payment.
For travel credits, they usually appear in your WestJet Travel Bank within 24 to 48 hours. If your refund takes longer than expected, you can follow up with customer service for updates.
No-Show Policy
If you do not show up for your flight and did not cancel in advance, WestJet may not provide any refund or travel credit. This is known as a no-show. If you expect to miss your flight, always try to cancel in advance to preserve the value of your ticket.
Third-Party Bookings and Travel Agencies
If you booked your WestJet flight through a third party like Expedia or another travel agency, you will need to contact that company to cancel. Refunds and credits may be delayed or processed under different policies than WestJet directly.
It is always best to book directly through WestJet if you want the most control over cancellations and refunds.
What About Add-ons and Extras
Extras such as seat selection baggage fees and in-flight purchases are not always refundable. If you cancel your flight you may or may not get a refund for these items. It depends on the time of cancellation and the type of add-on you purchased.
If you cancel within the 24-hour grace period these charges are usually refunded along with your ticket. Outside that window refund eligibility varies.
Can You Change Instead of Cancel
If you are not sure about canceling altogether you might be able to change your flight instead. Changing your flight usually costs less than canceling and forfeiting the value. Change fees may apply depending on the fare type and how far in advance you make the request.
Summary and Final Thoughts
Can you get a full refund if you cancel your WestJet flight The short answer is yes but only under specific conditions. The best chance of a full refund is if:
- You cancel within 24 hours of booking
- You purchased a fully refundable fare such as Premium Flex or Business Flex
- WestJet cancels your flight
- You qualify for a refund due to a verified emergency
If none of these apply you might receive a travel credit rather than a full refund. Non-refundable fares such as Basic tickets are not eligible for refund in most cases.
Understanding your fare rules and acting quickly can make a big difference in whether you get your money back. Be sure to read the terms before you buy and do not hesitate to call WestJet if you are unsure about your options.
Let me know if you would like a summarized checklist or cancellation script to use when calling WestJet.