Acknowledging that there has been some “confusion and speculation” in the travel trade over its recent announcement that it would be mothballing its travel agent booking channel effective Oct. 24, the WestJet has issued a statement aimed at clarifying the situation and its plan to introduce an alternative by early next year.

Amanda Ierfino, Director of Sales at WestJet says the “difficult decision” to “retire” WestJet Agent was made for technical reasons, but added that the change does not impact any other booking platforms such as WestJet Biz, SIREV or any GDS. Also, that WestJet Vacations and WestJet Vacations Groups tools are not affected.

Ierfino stated: “It has always been our intention to implement an alternate booking option for our travel trade partners. Although there is no immediate replacement available, we are actively working on developing a new booking option and expect to have a tool in place by Q1 of 2024.

She further assured, “We have always been committed to supporting and working alongside our travel trade partners, and that has not changed. Many teams at WestJet are working diligently on providing a solution that will meet the needs of our partners.”

More information is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Until then, agents who need support with existing bookings scheduled to depart after WestJet Agent is decommissioned on Oct. 24 are advised to contact the Travel Support Team at 1-877-664-3205 or via travelagencyweb@westjet.com.