When it comes to flying within Canada, the two names that dominate the skies are Air Canada and WestJet. If you’re planning domestic travel in 2025, chances are you’re wondering: Which airline is cheaper? Which one is more comfortable? Which has better baggage rules or loyalty rewards?
This article breaks down the real passenger experience—covering everything from ticket pricing to in-flight comfort, baggage allowances, punctuality, and frequent flyer perks—so you can decide which airline suits your travel style best.
Ticket Prices: Is WestJet Really Cheaper Than Air Canada?
One of the biggest questions travelers ask is: Is WestJet always cheaper than Air Canada?
- WestJet generally offers lower base fares, especially on short-haul domestic flights (e.g., Calgary–Edmonton, Toronto–Ottawa).
- Air Canada, while often priced slightly higher, includes more bundled services like free seat selection on certain fare classes, better connectivity, and frequent promotions for Aeroplan members.
Hidden factor: WestJet’s ultra-low fares often come with extra charges for seat selection and checked baggage, which can make the final price closer to Air Canada’s.
Verdict: WestJet wins on base fare affordability, but Air Canada provides more consistent value if you consider bundled perks.
Baggage Rules & Fees: Who Has the Better Policy?
Baggage policies can make or break your budget. Here’s how they compare:
| Category | Air Canada (Domestic) | WestJet (Domestic) |
|---|---|---|
| Carry-on Bag | Free (1 standard + 1 personal) | Free (1 standard + 1 personal) |
| First Checked Bag | $30–35 CAD | $30–35 CAD |
| Second Checked Bag | $50 CAD | $50 CAD |
| Oversized/Overweight | $100–120 CAD | $100–120 CAD |
Both airlines charge for checked bags on economy fares, but Air Canada offers free checked bags on select Aeroplan status tiers and bundled fare classes, while WestJet only does so with premium or higher-tier WestJet Rewards.
Verdict: It’s a tie on standard fares, but Air Canada edges ahead for frequent flyers.
Seating Comfort: Who Offers More Space?
For many passengers, legroom and seat comfort matter more than the ticket price.
- Air Canada economy class offers 30–31 inches of pitch (legroom), with premium economy options available on larger aircraft.
- WestJet economy class also offers 30–31 inches of pitch, but seats are slightly narrower on some Boeing 737s.
Hidden difference: Air Canada’s fleet includes larger wide-body planes (like Boeing 787s) even on some domestic routes, giving passengers a quieter and more spacious experience compared to WestJet’s mostly narrow-body fleet.
Verdict: Air Canada wins for comfort on long-haul domestic flights, while WestJet offers a similar experience on short routes.
In-flight Services: Meals, Wi-Fi & Entertainment
Travelers often Google: Does WestJet have free Wi-Fi? Does Air Canada still offer free meals?
- Air Canada:
- Complimentary snacks and beverages in economy.
- Meals included on longer domestic flights (e.g., Toronto–Vancouver).
- Wi-Fi available for purchase, with better coverage across North America.
- Personal entertainment screens on most aircraft.
- WestJet:
- Snacks and drinks are complimentary; meals available for purchase.
- Wi-Fi available for purchase but slightly less reliable on certain routes.
- WestJet Connect app streams content to your device, but fewer seatback screens.
Verdict: Air Canada wins on entertainment and meals, while WestJet focuses on simplicity and affordability.
Punctuality & Reliability: Who Is More On Time?
According to recent reports, WestJet has a slightly better record of on-time arrivals on short-haul flights. Air Canada, due to its larger operations and reliance on hub airports, experiences more delays, particularly in winter weather.
But here’s the catch: Air Canada offers far more daily frequencies and route options, which means if your flight is delayed or canceled, you have a better chance of rebooking quickly.
Verdict: WestJet wins on punctuality, but Air Canada offers better backup options.
Loyalty Programs: Aeroplan vs WestJet Rewards
Frequent flyers often ask: Which loyalty program is better—Aeroplan or WestJet Rewards?
- Aeroplan (Air Canada)
- One of the strongest global frequent flyer programs.
- Earn and redeem points not just on Air Canada but also across Star Alliance partners (United, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, etc.).
- Great for international travelers.
- WestJet Rewards
- Simpler program—points earned as a percentage of ticket price.
- Redemption is straightforward: dollars off future flights.
- Limited global partners compared to Aeroplan.
Verdict: Aeroplan is better for international travelers and frequent flyers, while WestJet Rewards is easier for casual domestic travelers.
Passenger Reviews: What Do Flyers Say in 2025?
Browsing forums like Reddit, TripAdvisor, and Google Reviews, a few themes stand out:
- Air Canada: praised for better inflight service, meals, and connectivity, but criticized for delays.
- WestJet: praised for friendly crew and punctuality, but some passengers dislike the lack of free seatback entertainment and meals.
So, Which Airline Should You Choose in 2025?
- Choose Air Canada if you:
- Value comfort on longer domestic routes
- Want global connectivity via Aeroplan and Star Alliance
- Prefer seatback entertainment and included meals
- Choose WestJet if you:
- Want affordable fares for short-haul domestic flights
- Prefer a simpler, no-frills travel experience
- Value punctuality and friendly service
In short: Air Canada is better for frequent travelers and long routes, while WestJet is the best choice for budget-conscious domestic flyers.
FAQs
Q1: Is Air Canada more expensive than WestJet in 2025?
Yes, on average Air Canada fares are slightly higher, but when you factor in meals, entertainment, and Aeroplan benefits, the difference often balances out.
Q2: Which airline has better baggage rules—Air Canada or WestJet?
Both charge similar fees, but Air Canada gives free checked bags to Aeroplan elites and premium fares, which WestJet doesn’t offer widely.
Q3: Which is safer, Air Canada or WestJet?
Both airlines have excellent safety records and meet global aviation standards. The difference comes down to comfort and services, not safety.
Q4: Which airline is more comfortable for long domestic flights?
Air Canada’s wide-body aircraft on routes like Toronto–Vancouver give more comfort compared to WestJet’s mostly narrow-body fleet.
Q5: Which has a better loyalty program—Aeroplan or WestJet Rewards?
Aeroplan is better for international travelers, while WestJet Rewards is easier for casual flyers who prefer simple dollar-value points.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between Air Canada and WestJet in 2025 depends on your travel style. If you want comfort, global reach, and perks, Air Canada is worth it. If you prefer affordability, punctuality, and simplicity, WestJet is the smarter choice.
Both airlines remain Canada’s top domestic carriers, and whichever you choose—you’re flying with a trusted name in aviation.
