Why Does My Delta Flight Say WestJet? Understanding Codeshare Agreements
It's a common point of confusion and sometimes even concern: you book a flight through Delta Air Lines, but when you check your reservation details, you see the name "WestJet" associated with your flight. This doesn't mean you accidentally booked with the wrong airline. Instead, it’s almost certainly due to a codeshare agreement.
What is a Codeshare Agreement?
Codeshare agreements are common partnerships between airlines. In essence, two or more airlines agree to "share" a flight. Here's how it works in your scenario:
- Delta sells the ticket: You purchase your ticket directly from Delta, often through Delta's website or a travel agent using Delta flight numbers.
- WestJet operates the flight: The actual aircraft and crew that will fly you are provided by WestJet.
- Shared Flight Numbers: Delta then "codeshares" on that WestJet-operated flight, meaning they assign their own flight number to it and sell seats on it as if it were a Delta flight.
This allows both airlines to offer a wider network of destinations to their customers without having to fly planes on every single route themselves. For you, the traveler, it means you can often fly to more places with your preferred airline's loyalty program benefits, even if another airline is doing the physical flying.
Why Do Airlines Enter Into Codeshare Agreements?
The primary motivations for airlines to engage in codeshare agreements are:
- Expanded Route Networks: This is the most significant benefit. Delta can offer flights to destinations that they don't have the physical capacity or economic incentive to serve directly. By partnering with WestJet, Delta can sell tickets on WestJet's existing routes, effectively expanding their own reach.
- Increased Revenue: Both airlines benefit financially. Delta earns revenue from selling seats on these shared flights, and WestJet gets to fill seats on flights they are already operating, thereby increasing their own revenue.
- Customer Convenience: For travelers, codeshares can mean more convenient schedules, fewer layovers, and the ability to book a complex itinerary with a single airline, even if multiple carriers are involved in the actual transportation. This simplifies booking and ticketing.
- Loyalty Program Benefits: Often, you can still earn and redeem Delta SkyMiles on these codeshare flights, and you might even receive some Delta-level service benefits (like priority boarding or check-in) at the airport, depending on the specifics of the agreement and your elite status with Delta.
What Does This Mean for Your Travel Experience?
While the flight might show "Delta" on your initial booking, the operational details will be handled by WestJet. Here's what you can generally expect:
- Check-in: You will likely check in through WestJet. This can usually be done online via the WestJet website or app, or at the WestJet check-in counter at the airport. You will need your booking reference number, which may be a Delta confirmation number or a separate WestJet confirmation number (sometimes referred to as the "operating carrier" confirmation).
- Baggage: Your baggage will be checked through to your final destination, provided it's a single ticket. However, baggage allowance and fees can sometimes be governed by the operating carrier (WestJet) or the ticketed carrier (Delta), or a combination of both, depending on the specific agreement. It's always best to confirm baggage policies with both airlines or check your ticket details carefully.
- In-Flight Service: The in-flight service (meals, entertainment, cabin crew) will be provided by WestJet. While Delta may have provided some guidelines, the experience will reflect WestJet's standards.
- Airport Operations: Gate assignments, boarding procedures, and any flight updates at the airport will be managed by WestJet staff.
- Customer Service: If you have issues before, during, or after your flight, you may need to contact either Delta or WestJet, depending on the nature of the issue and who operated the flight. For operational issues on the day of travel, contacting the operating carrier (WestJet) is often more effective.
It's crucial to pay attention to the details on your booking confirmation. Look for information that specifies the "operating carrier" or "flight operated by." This will clearly indicate which airline is responsible for the physical flight.
The Delta-WestJet Partnership
Delta Air Lines and WestJet have a long-standing partnership that includes a codeshare agreement. This allows Delta customers to access a broader range of destinations in Canada, and for WestJet customers to connect to Delta's extensive global network. Flights that you book through Delta with a Delta flight number, but are operated by WestJet, will appear as such in your booking details.
Example Scenario
Let's say you book a flight from Seattle (SEA) to Calgary (YYC) on Delta's website. You might see a flight listed as DL1234. However, when you look closer, you might see "Operated by WestJet" and a WestJet flight number like WS5678. This means Delta has sold you a seat on a flight that WestJet is flying. You'll check in with WestJet, board a WestJet plane, and be served by WestJet flight attendants.
What if I booked through WestJet and it says Delta?
The same principle applies in reverse. If you booked a flight through WestJet, and it shows "Operated by Delta," it means WestJet has codeshared on a Delta-operated flight. You would then interact with Delta for check-in and operational aspects of that flight.
Codeshare agreements are designed to benefit travelers by increasing options and convenience. While it can be initially confusing to see a different airline name, understanding the concept of codeshares clarifies why your Delta flight might be operated by WestJet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know which airline's policies to follow for baggage?
Typically, the baggage allowance and fees are determined by the airline that *ticketed* your flight (the one whose flight number is on your ticket), but it's always wise to check the policies of the *operating carrier* as well, especially for last-minute changes or specific routing. Your booking confirmation should provide this detail.
Will I earn Delta SkyMiles if my flight is operated by WestJet?
In most cases, yes. Delta and WestJet's codeshare agreements usually allow you to earn SkyMiles when flying on a Delta-ticketed flight operated by WestJet. Be sure to verify the specific mileage accrual rules for your fare class and route, as these can sometimes vary.
Where do I go to check in if my Delta flight is operated by WestJet?
You should go to the WestJet check-in counter or use the WestJet website/app for check-in. You will likely need your reservation confirmation number, which might be a Delta confirmation number or a separate WestJet confirmation number provided by Delta.
What if there's a flight delay or cancellation on a codeshare flight?
If your Delta flight is operated by WestJet and experiences a delay or cancellation, your first point of contact for immediate assistance at the airport should be the WestJet ground staff. For rebooking or broader itinerary changes, you may need to contact Delta customer service.
