WestJet introduces redesigned self-serve tools

Airline enhances guest experience with new web, mobile and kiosk check-in

CALGARY, June 20, 2012 /CNW/ - WestJet today unveiled a fresh new look and feel when checking in for flights on westjet.com, by mobile phone or at a WestJet kiosk. In addition to a redesign, new features will allow WestJet guests to do more as part of their check-in experience.

Starting today, guests will be able to use the following new features on the airline's web, mobile and kiosk check-in platforms:

• Pay excess baggage fees as part of mobile and web check in (this feature is already available on WestJet kiosks)
• Move to an earlier flight, on select routes, based on availability
• Re-enter the check-in process to reprint boarding passes and change baggage information
• Print boarding passes and baggage tags in a single transaction at select airports where self-serve bag-tagging is available

"We're pleased to unveil these new applications as part of WestJet's commitment to a remarkable guest experience," said Bob Cummings, WestJet Executive Vice-President, Sales, Marketing and Guest Experience. "These applications offer big improvements to the check-in flow, as well as increased kiosk usability, which is a benefit to both our guests and WestJetters in our airports. We believe that as demand grows for guests to customize their travel to suit their needs, so too will the number of guests using our self-service options."

The airline encourages guests to use these self-serve options, creating an enhanced experience at the airport where WestJet guests will only have to drop off any checked baggage and proceed to their gate. As always, smiling WestJetters will continue to welcome guests at WestJet ticket counters for guests who wish to complete their check-in at the airport.

Introducing self-service tools has been an important part of WestJet's history. In 2010, WestJet unveiled self-serve bag-tagging in major Canadian airports. Three years earlier, WestJet was the first airline in North America to launch the electronic boarding pass.

"Convenience is an important part of the value proposition to travellers. As part of our airline's evolution, WestJet is striving to lead the way when it comes to easy-to-use self-service options," concluded Bob Cummings. "In great numbers, WestJet guests check in online or via their mobile device, email or print their own boarding passes, and tag their own bags at the airport. This successful implementation further demonstrates our commitment to building capabilities that will provide additional self-service opportunities to enhance the travel experience of our guests." 

About WestJet

WestJet is Canada's preferred airline, offering scheduled service throughout its 76-city North American and Caribbean network. Inducted into Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures Hall of Fame and named one of Canada's best employers, WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. WestJet offers increased legroom and leather seats on its modern fleet of 98 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. With future confirmed deliveries for an additional 37 aircraft through 2018, WestJet strives to be one of the five most successful international airlines in the world.

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