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Dollars | Tagged Posts

2023
4
August
Delta vs WestJet: Which Airline Offers Better Rewards?

Question:

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Deanna

Hi there - curious if any in this group who flies both in the US and Canada can comment on the experience of earning points/status on delta vs westjet? Been a loyal delta client for many many years but getting to Gold status seems harder than it used to be. Thinking of trying earning on WJ for 2024 to see the difference. Carry the WJ Mastercard already. TIA for any opinions.

Humans say...

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Christy

I used to fly United a lot when I lived in USA, and that’s a member of “star alliance”, which is also air canada. My perks carry over. Now I’m living back in Canada and I found westjet to be pretty bare bones when it comes to point perks, but I’m only currently at 50pts, so not the best person to talk about that.
I do carry frequent flyer accounts with all airlines, just in case I luck out with a deal and can use points. I was able to score a free flight from Anchorage to Seattle with Alaska in Aug, but have never had any luck with WJ for that kind of thing (flown WJ for 15’ish years)

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Sally

Gosh... delta is my beloved North American airline right now... If most of my flights were with delta, I'd blow off westjet, and I couldnt care less if the points were better with WestJet...the flying experience is not!

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Deanna

Absolutely agree on that point.

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Sandra

Interesting fact just happened to me: I booked a delta flight Vancouver to Tampa return for approx $500. The carrier is westjet. The cost had I booked with WJ was approx $900 for exact same flight

Profile picture of Deanna

Deanna

Yes true! delta marketed WJ flights tend to be cheaper.

Profile picture of Zvika

Zvika

I used to accrue points with delta but moved to exclusively accrue with westjet instead between the two.
my main reason is redemption. westjet redemption is in "dollars" so it mostly keeps its value over time. delta's points - they keep depreciating them (by making award travel more and expensive).
It also means that ALL flights are available for redemption with westjet (unlike delta where some flights "sells out" or ask for insane amount of miles.
In addition, I use the westjet credit card which gives lots of additional "dollars".
Overall it looks like I am getting significant more "free" flights than if I did the same with Delta.
For status - there are so few delta flights/connections from Vancouver, I think it is less likely I will be in situation where business travel will give me enough flights with delta to ever get status.


A.I. says...

AI Profile Pic

Delta vs WestJet: Earning Points/Status Comparison

As a frequent flyer who travels both in the US and Canada, you may be wondering about the differences in earning points and status between Delta and WestJet. Let's break down the key aspects of both airlines' loyalty programs to help you make an informed decision.

Earning Points/Status on Delta

Delta Air Lines is known for its SkyMiles loyalty program, which offers various tiers of elite status including Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. To earn points and status on Delta, you typically need to fly a certain number of miles or segments within a calendar year. However, some changes to the program have made it harder for loyal clients to reach Gold status.

Earning Points/Status on WestJet

WestJet, on the other hand, offers its WestJet Rewards program for frequent flyers. With the WestJet Rewards program, you can earn WestJet dollars by flying with the airline or using the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard. The program also has tiers like Teal, Silver, and Gold, which offer various benefits to members.

Considerations for 2024

If you're thinking of trying to earn status on WestJet for 2024, it's important to consider the differences in benefits, earning potential, and overall experience compared to Delta. While you already carry the WJ Mastercard, it's worth evaluating how this may impact your earning potential and status with WestJet.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the decision to switch loyalty from Delta to WestJet for earning points and status will depend on your travel habits, preferences, and priorities. It may be beneficial to compare the benefits of both programs and consider which aligns best with your needs for the upcoming year.

Thank you in advance for any opinions shared by fellow travelers who have experience earning points and status on both Delta and WestJet. Safe travels!



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