WestJet, Air Canada Execs Summoned to Ottawa for Bag Fee Talk

The head executives of both Air Canada and WestJet are expected to address a Canadian government committee on Friday to talk about bag fees.

Michael Rousseau, president and CEO of Air Canada, and Alexis von Hoensbroech, CEO of WestJet Airlines, are scheduled to address the Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities on 13DEC, Reuters reports. The news agency said Rousseau’s comments will come via a video connection.

The bag fee issue also will be discussed in a meeting, either virtual or in-person. with Transport Minister Anita Anand.

Air Canada on 04DEC, 2024 announced that, starting 03JAN, 2025, passengers who book basic fares on domestic, U.S. and sun flights will be allowed a small personal item that fits under the seat in front of them, but that carry-on bags will not be allowed.

Anand quickly blasted Air Canada for the decision, saying the fees are “not acceptable.”

“I am extremely concerned,” the minister said on her Twitter/X feed. “Canadians work hard and save up to travel. They rightly expect excellent service, not extra fees.”

Air Canada said the fees are “not new in the Canadian industry and is merely our competitive response.” Airline officials also said they would be happy to explain their decision to the government.

WestJet earlier this year introduced a new “ultra-basic” fare that allows pax to have only one personal item stored under their seat. Consumers who purchase the ultra-basic fare also will be seated at the back of the aircraft and will be the last to board.