A BUDGET airline has revealed an “ultra basic” no-frills option which gives the passenger the option of a seat only, and nothing else.
The Canadian low-cost airline has stripped back its offerings, making it the world’s “worst plane ticket”.
WestJet airline recently announced its new ticket option, aimed at affordable air travel.
Similar to RyanAir‘s bag policy, WestJet said personal-only items that fit under the seat in front were allowed.
While checked baggage is allowed for an additional fee.
However, passengers who choose the budget-friendly option won’t be able to choose their seats.
Anyone flying will be automatically assigned seats at the back of the aircraft, including middle seats, and will not necessarily be seated with others the passenger is travelling with.
However, like checked baggage, passengers do have the option to choose their seats for an additional fee.
Group executive vice-president and chief commercial officer, John Weatherill said: “We are committed to air travel affordability.
“UltraBasic is an innovative cost-effective solution that strengthens WestJet’s ability to offer guests budget-friendly airfares to more destinations.”
Many budget airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air only allow one small, under-the-seat bag in the price of their tickets, and charge customers extra if they want more luggage.
In a statement, the airline said: “We believe these changes will help us continue to provide competitive air travel options while focusing on operational excellence.”
The airline also told CBC news that the purpose of the ultra basic ticket option was to “expedite the boarding process and provide competitive pricing”.
It’s not the first time budget airlines have made questionable choices under the guise of affordable options.
In 2017, a Colombian airline announced its intention to rip out the seats to make air travel more affordable.
VivaColombia wants to remove all of the seats from their planes and make economy-class passengers stand instead.
At the time Founder and CEO of VivaColombia, William Shaw said: “There are people out there right now researching whether you can fly standing up – we’re very interested in anything that makes travel less expensive.”
The airline later ceased operations due to financial difficulties in 2023.
Budget airline Ryanair is also no stranger to basic airfares.
Currently, the airline’s most basic option allows for one small personal item able to fit under the seat in front.
Customers are required to pay for any additional hand luggage, checked-in bags and seat allocation.
Its stringent baggage rules have led to a slew of TikTok videos by customers on how to “hack” the system.
These tricks include taking the filling out of a neck pillow and replacing it with clothes filling a normal pillow with extra clothes, or wearing multiple layers of clothes on the flight.
However, the airline has vowed to crack down on Brits avoiding baggage fees.
What does a Westjet ultra basic ticket get you?
Canadian airline WestJet has unveiled its ‘ultra basic’ airfare.
The ‘no frills’ option was recently introduced and it could indicate the beginning of a wider trend.
And while the perks of flying have been stripped back, a ticket between Vancouver to Toronto will still cost $288.28 CAN (£165).
So what will that get you?
- One seat randomly allocated at the back of the plane
- One small personal item (i.e. camera bag, sportsball, or pet carrier)
Passengers who book an ultra basic fare will also be the last person to board their flight, and will be charge more than usual for any luggage.