WestJet Pilot Career Guide
Canada's second-largest carrier, WestJet has evolved from LCC to full-service airline with international routes.
First Officer Salary
C$70,000 - C$130,000
Captain Salary
C$160,000 - C$260,000
Salary Progression
Year 1 FO
C$75,000
Year 5 FO
C$118,000
Year 10 Captain
C$215,000
Year 20 Captain
C$255,000
Bonuses & Perks
Profit sharing program. Employee share purchase plan (ESPP). Annual performance review.
Retirement
DC pension with company match. RRSP contributions. Profit sharing into retirement savings.
Pilot Reviews & Ratings
Based on pilot forum data
Pros
- Growing from LCC to full-service with expanding route network
- Calgary HQ offers lower cost of living than Toronto/Vancouver
- Friendly company culture with roots in Southwest model
- 767 widebody flying to sun destinations provides variety
- Multiple base options across Canada
Cons
- Pay below Air Canada and US carriers
- Recent ALPA certification changed labor dynamics (transition period)
- Onex private equity ownership creates strategic uncertainty
- Smaller international network limits long-haul opportunities
- Calgary winters are harsh
Fleet & Routes
| Aircraft | Count | Routes |
|---|---|---|
| Boeing 737-700 | 14 | Domestic short-haul |
| Boeing 737-800 | 42 | Domestic and transborder |
| Boeing 737 MAX 8/10 | 38 | Domestic and international |
| Boeing 767-300ER | 4 | Transatlantic and sun destinations |
| De Havilland Dash 8-400 | 25 | Regional domestic (WestJet Encore) |
Interview & Selection Process
Online application through WestJet careers
Preliminary screening and records review
Online aptitude assessment
Panel interview with training and HR in Calgary
Simulator assessment on Boeing 737
Transport Canada medical and background check
Pilot Lifestyle
Work Schedule
Typically 75-80 block hours/month. Mix of domestic, US transborder, and sun destination flying. Reasonable scheduling for line holders.
Home Base
Calgary (YYC) is the HQ and largest base. Toronto (YYZ) growing for Eastern operations.
Travel Benefits
Standby on WestJet. Limited partner travel. Staff fares for family.
Commutable?
Yes — most bases are commutable
Hubs & Pilot Bases
Main Hubs
Pilot Bases
Union & Representation
Pilots at WestJet are represented by Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA).
Latest Developments
ALPA certified as WestJet pilot union, replacing in-house association
Boeing 737 MAX 10 deliveries expanding capacity on busy domestic routes
WestJet and Sunwing integration creating expanded leisure travel operation
Pilot Requirements
Transport Canada ATPL
3,000+ hours total
1,000+ on type
Class 1 medical
Compare WestJet With
Plan your WestJet career
See what WestJet pilots earn at every career stage, estimate training costs, and test your FAA theory knowledge.