CALGARY — WestJet is waiving the fee for the first checked bag for all guests travelling to Kingston and Montego Bay between Nov. 13 and Nov. 27.

The airline says it recognizes that many guests are travelling to Jamaica through volunteer organizations, or to support their own loved ones, and notes that WestJet is committed to standing with guests that are going above and beyond to care for the community.

For passengers with imminent travel plans who have intentions of supporting humanitarian efforts, they may call 1-888-937-8538 to ensure the first baggage fee is waived. Waived fees are only applicable for guests travelling inbound to Jamaica and may be retroactively refunded up to seven days after travel by calling the contact centre.

WestJet also notes that due to limited cargo capacity to Jamaica and Kingston at this time, baggage may not travel on the same flight as the guest. In these situations, WestJet is committed to delivering baggage on the next available flight.

“In moments like these, we are reminded of the strength and compassion of our guests and partners. WestJet is proud to stand alongside those who are stepping up to help. Whether through waived fees, cargo support or emergency flights, we remain committed to doing our part to help Jamaica recover and rebuild,” says April Crane, VP Communications and Engagement, WestJet.

As WestJet notes, Hurricane Melissa, the strongest storm of the 2025 Atlantic season has caused widespread devastation across communities in Jamaica and the surrounding area. WestJet adds that Jamaica has been a vital destination for WestJet passengers, and the deep ties to the island are felt across the organization.

For more than 10 years, WestJet has worked closely with humanitarian partners to provide critical support where it is needed most. WestJet says it has committed to showing up in a meaningful way for the communities it serves, through reputable partner organizations who lead response efforts during and after a crisis.

“WestJet is honoured to be seen as a trusted partner in times of crisis, and we’re deeply moved by the outpouring of requests to support relief efforts. As we navigate an overwhelming volume of asks, we remain committed to responding in the most effective and meaningful ways,” said Crane. “While unsolicited donations of goods are often well-intentioned, they can sometimes complicate coordinated efforts. That’s why we work closely with our trusted partners to understand what is truly needed, be it flights, cargo space, volunteers, or financial support, so we can support the efforts that are needed most.”

WESTJET’S RESPONSE TO HURRICANE MELISSA

In a natural disaster, WestJet activates a coordinated response with internal teams and external partners to ensure the airline can safely and effectively support its people, guests, and communities.

WestJet says it is proud to support GlobalMedic’s emergency response efforts, including …

• Aid delivery: GlobalMedic has deployed AquaResponse Systems, Family Emergency Kits, Emergency Food Kits, essential medicines and air scrubbers as well as their RescUAV team to assist with relief efforts.
• Cargo support: WestJet Cargo is transporting essential aid items to impacted areas when safe to do so.
• Flight support: WestJet has provided flights for emergency personnel and volunteers traveling to the region.
• Volunteer support: Close to 40 WestJet Group employees volunteered their time to pack Family Emergency Kits to be sent to Jamaica.

WestJet’s travel advisory page with rebooking information can be found here.