Last Updated: April 2026

Quick Answer: WestJet Seat Selection

Picking the right seat on WestJet starts with knowing your fare bundle. WestJet structures seat access differently across Basic, Econo, EconoFlex, and Premium fares — and what you pay for seat selection depends almost entirely on which ticket you bought.

This guide answers the most common questions travelers have about WestJet seat selection, breaks down what each seat type offers, and explains your upgrade options before departure.

WestJet airline seat policy varies by fare bundle, which determines whether seat selection is included or paid. 

How WestJet Pricing Actually Works

WestJet uses a fare-bundle system. Lower fares keep the ticket price cheaper, but extras like seat selection cost more.

Higher fares like EconoFlex and Premium include more seat options and flexibility. That’s why two people on the same flight can end up paying very different prices.

Can I Choose My Seat on WestJet?

Yes, you can. Here’s a quick summary of how seat selection works on WestJet: 

Basic fare — Seat selection requires a fee for most seats

Econo fare — Standard seat selection included; preferred seats may cost extra

EconoFlex fare — Standard seat selection included with more flexibility

Premium fare — Full seat selection included across all categories

If you do not select a seat, WestJet assigns one automatically at check-in based on what is left. On busy flights this usually means a middle seat toward the rear. Selecting early, ideally at booking, gives you the most choice.

Hidden Truth About WestJet Seat Selection

A few things most travelers don’t realize:

• Basic fares usually don’t include seat selection
• Waiting means fewer seat choices
• Groups may get separated
• Preferred seats sell out first

If seat location matters, choose early.

When should you select your seat?

You can select your seat at WestJet at the following stages: 

During booking → best availability

After booking → flexible but fewer options

At check-in (24 hours before) → some seats may be free

If you want specific seats like window, aisle, or front rows, selecting early is usually better.

WestJet Seat Selection by Fare Bundle

Fare Bundle	Seat Selection Included	Notes
Basic	Not included — fee applies	Standard seats only; limited selection
Econo	Standard seat selection included	Preferred seats may carry a fee
EconoFlex	Standard seat selection included	More flexibility on changes
Premium (Business)	Fully included	All seat categories available

Rules may vary by route. Always confirm your specific fare conditions when booking.

WestJet Seat Types Explained

Standard Seats — Default economy seats across the cabin. Included or fee-based depending on your fare bundle.

Preferred Seats — Positioned toward the front of the cabin for quicker exit and bin access. Popular with frequent WestJet travelers.

Extra Legroom Seats — More space at exit rows or front-row positions. Higher fee applies and exit row eligibility requirements must be met.

Premium Cabin — Wider seats, better recline, and priority boarding. Available as a direct fare or paid upgrade when inventory allows.

When Should You Pay for Seat Selection on WestJet?

Pay for seat if: 

Flying long-haul or internationally

Travelling with family or a group

You need a specific seat like aisle or window

Skip seat selection if:

Short domestic flight

Travelling solo

Budget is the priority — auto-assignment works fine

On busy routes, selecting early also helps avoid middle seats and rear-cabin placement.

How Much Does WestJet Seat Selection Cost?

WestJet seat selection fees vary by seat type, route, and timing. 

Standard seats on Basic fares — lower fee

Preferred seats closer to the front or with extra legroom — higher fee

Exit row seats — typically the highest fee in economy

Fees are shown during the booking process on westjet.com before you confirm. Pricing adjusts based on route and demand so there is no single fixed rate. For current pricing, check the seat map during your booking on the WestJet website.

What Affects WestJet Seat Selection Prices?

WestJet seat fees are not fixed. Four things determine what you pay:

Fare bundle — Basic passengers pay for seats that Econo and above get included

Seat type — Standard seats cost less; preferred, exit row, and Premium seats cost more

Route — Longer or busier routes typically carry higher seat fees

Timing — Earlier selection usually means more choice; prices can change as the flight fills

Fees are shown in real time on the seat map during booking at westjet.com.

How to Select Your Seat on WestJet

If you’re wondering how to select seats on WestJet, the process is simple through booking or the Manage Trips section. 

At the time of booking:

1. Search and select your flight on westjet.com or the app
2. Pick your fare bundle
3. When the seat map appears, choose your preferred seat
4. Pay any applicable fee and confirm

After booking:

1. Log in and go to Manage Trips on westjet.com or the WestJet app
2. Find your booking and open the seat map
3. Select or change your seat based on what is available for your fare
4. Confirm the change

At check-in: Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure. Basic fare passengers should check in as early as possible — this is when standard seats sometimes open at no charge.

Upgrading Your Seat on WestJet

Not happy with your current seat? Here are your options:

Buy a seat upgrade online Go to Manage Trips before your flight. If Stretch or Premium seats are still available, you can purchase an upgrade directly. Earlier is better — inventory reduces as departure approaches.

Upgrade at check-in If Premium seats remain available during online check-in or at the airport counter, WestJet may offer these at a discounted rate. Not guaranteed but worth checking.

Use WestJet Dollars WestJet Rewards members earn WestJet dollars on flights and partner purchases. These can be applied toward seat upgrades and fares. Check your account balance before paying cash for an upgrade — you may already have enough to cover part or all of the cost.

WestJet Aircraft and Seat Maps

WestJet operates Boeing 737 and 787 Dreamliner aircraft across its network. The seat layout varies by aircraft:

• Boeing 737 — Single-aisle narrow-body used on most domestic Canadian, US, and sun routes. Standard 3-3 economy layout with Stretch seats at exit rows
• Boeing 787 Dreamliner — Used on select international routes. Wider cabin, dedicated Premium cabin at front, and a more spacious overall layout

Checking the aircraft type when you search helps set expectations for the seat experience. The seat map on westjet.com shows the actual layout for your specific flight.

What’s Different About WestJet Seat Selection

WestJet’s seating works a bit differently compared to many airlines:

• Basic fares are more restrictive
  WestJet Basic does not include advance seat selection, checked bags, or flexible changes. If you want more control over your seat, Econo fares are usually a better option.
• WestJet Rewards can offset costs
  WestJet dollars can be used like cash, making it easier to reduce seat upgrade or selection costs over time.
• Boarding order matters
  On domestic flights, overhead bin space fills quickly. Passengers with priority boarding have a better chance of securing space, so packing light can help if you’re on a Basic fare.

Tips for WestJet Seat Selection

• Select your seat while booking — preferred and extra legroom seats fill up fast
• Check your WestJet Rewards balance before paying for upgrades
• On Basic fares, check again at 24-hour check-in for possible free seats
• Avoid seats in front of exit rows — they often don’t recline fully
• On long-haul flights, Premium window seats offer more privacy

For baggage details, see our WestJet baggage fees guide. For cabin rules, check our WestJet carry-on policy guide.

How WestJet Compares to Other Airlines

WestJet Basic fares include fewer perks than full-service airlines like Delta Air Lines or American Airlines.

But WestJet gives more seat options and flexibility as you move from Basic to Econo, EconoFlex, and Premium fares, without needing to pay separately for every upgrade.

Before You Choose Your Seat on WestJet

WestJet seat selection is straightforward once you know your fare bundle. Basic passengers pay for most advance selections while Econo and above include standard seats. Selecting at booking gives you the most choice — particularly for preferred and Stretch seats on busy routes. Always verify current fees and availability on westjet.com before confirming. For a broader comparison of seat selection across airlines, see our airline seat selection guide.

Common Questions About WestJet Seat Selection

Final Takeaway

WestJet seat selection comes down to your fare bundle. Basic fares require payment for most advance selections, while Econo and above include standard seats. The earlier you choose, the better your options and the more control you have over where you sit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FlytripInfo provides independent travel guidance and is not affiliated with WestJet.

Disclaimer:

All information on FlytripInfo is provided for general travel guidance only. Airline policies, baggage rules, and fees can change at any time without prior notice. While we strive to keep our content accurate and updated, travelers should always verify details directly with the airline before their journey.  FlytripInfo is not responsible for any errors, delays, or decisions made based on the information provided.