WestJet is changing its maximum carry-on baggage size, bringing it in line with standards used by other North American airlines and luggage manufacturers. The new size limit, effective May 6, will be 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches (56 cm by 36 cm by 22 cm), including wheels and handles.
The Calgary-based airline says the change is intended to improve cabin storage space and make boarding more efficient, particularly on full flights. It also applies to Sunwing aircraft, which will be integrated into WestJet’s fleet this spring.
WestJet’s vice president of experience management, Colleen Tynan, said the update is expected to make boarding and check-in more consistent by eliminating differences in baggage policies between airlines. “Introducing a new standard size ensures more bags fit on more flights, so we expect this to have a big impact on the overall experience on board,” she said in a news release.
The airline says the decision was based on feedback from both passengers and employees, noting that WestJet previously had a unique carry-on size that differed from other airlines.
New baggage sizing devices will be installed at all WestJet-served airports by March 13.
Until the new policy takes effect, WestJet will continue accepting both the old and new carry-on size limits.
